Treatment of nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head with the implantation of core decompression and concentrated autologous bone marrow containing mononuclear cells

Factors related to collapse progression in Japanese Investigation Committee classification type B osteonecrosis of the femoral head

PURPOSE

This study aimed to identify factors related to collapse progression in Japanese Investigation Committee classification type B osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) and to identify patients who would benefit from surgical treatment.

METHODS

This study included 41 patients (56 hips) with type B ONFH with a minimum follow-up of three years. Based on a ≥ 3 mm collapse progression in ONFH, we categorised patients into two groups: collapse progression and no collapse progression. Sagittal and coronal computed tomography images were used to measure the necrotic region relative to the intact femoral head diameter. The ratios of the necrotic regions of transverse and vertical diameter in coronal and sagittal images are defined as mediolateral transverse and mediolateral vertical, anteroposterior transverse and anteroposterior vertical, respectively. Demographic data and these imaging findings were compared between the two groups. We established a cut-off value for predicting collapse progression through receiver operating characteristic analysis and determined survival rates.

RESULTS

Type B ONFH had a 17.8% collapse progression rate. The mediolateral transverse, mediolateral vertical, anteroposterior transverse, and anteroposterior vertical were significantly higher in the collapse progression group (P < 0.01). Mediolateral transverse was an independent risk factor of collapse progression (hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.57; P = 0.03), with an optimal cut-off of 45.6%. The 5-year survival rates with collapse progression as the endpoints were 57.0 and 94.9% in the mediolateral transverse of ≥ 45.6 and < 45.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A mediolateral transverse of ≥ 45.6% predicts collapse progression in patients with type B ONFH.

Dehydroandrographolide alleviates rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting neutrophil activation via LMIR3 in collagen induced arthritis rats

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease which causes severe pain and disability. Neutrophils play essential roles in the onset and progression of RA; thus, inhibition of neutrophil activation is becoming a popular therapeutic strategy. Dehydroandrographolide has provided satisfactory outcomes in inflammatory diseases; however, its therapeutic effects and mechanism in RA are not fully understood. Leukocyte mono-immunoglobulin-like receptor 3 (LMIR3) is a negative regulator highly expressed in neutrophils. To determine whether dehydroandrographolide negatively regulated neutrophils activation via LMIR3, cytokines release and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats were used in vitro and in vivo. Biacore, molecular docking analysis and molecular dynamics simulation were performed to prove the target of dehydroandrographolide. Moreover, the downstream signaling pathways of LMIR3 activation were analyzed by western blotting. Results showed that oral dehydroandrographolide administration of 2 mg/kg/day to CIA rats attenuated synovitis and bone and cartilage damage after the 28-day intervention, revealed using HE sections and micro-CT. Dehydroandrographolide significantly inhibited cytokine release and chemotaxis of LPS/TNF-α-activated neutrophils in vitro. Dehydroandrographolide inhibited neutrophils activation via binding to LMIR3. Moreover, dehydroandrographolide up-regulated the phosphorylation of SHP-1 and SHP-2, which are the essential kinases in the LMIR3 signaling pathways. This study revealed that dehydroandrographolide attenuated collagen-induced arthritis by suppressing neutrophil activation via LMIR3.

Efficacy of autologous stem cell therapy in femoral head avascular necrosis: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is a disease usually seen in middle-aged individuals. Although many aetiological factors have been blamed, there are still aetiological factors that have not been fully elucidated. Although treatment options show a wide range, early and appropriate treatment is of great importance to preserve the hip joint. In our study, we compared the results of core decompression and core decompression combined with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation in patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

MATERIAL METHOD

In this retrospective study, Steinberg stage 1-2 patients operated on for avascular necrosis of the femoral head between 2018 and 2023 were analysed. Separate groups were formed from patients who underwent isolated core decompression and core decompression + bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation. Age, gender, Steinberg staging, aetiology of the disease, follow-up period, progression to hip arthroplasty, Vas scores, Harris hip scores (HHS), and complications were evaluated. Harris hip scores at preoperative and 2-year follow-up periods; VAS scores at preoperative, 3-month, 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up periods were analysed.

RESULTS

In the study, 44 patients were analysed. While 25 patients underwent core decompression only (group 1), 19 patients underwent core decompression and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell implantation (group 2). The mean age of the patients in group 1 was 39.3 ± 6.5 years, and the mean age of the patients in group 2 was 38.4 ± 6.7 years. The mean follow-up was 31.85 ± 4.4 months in group 1 and 32.2 ± 4.1 months in group 2. Total hip arthroplasty was performed in 2 of the patients in group 1 (one of the patients underwent total hip arthroplasty at month 28 and the other at month 33).

CONCLUSION

The treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head varies according to various staging methods. Early diagnosis of the disease and correct treatment are very important for the patient's quality of life in the future. In our research, we found that patients who received both core decompression and stem cell implantation for early-stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head exhibited decreased pain at the 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year follow-up examinations. Additionally, their hip function improved at the 24-month mark according to the HHS evaluation.

Clinical outcomes of autologous platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow mononuclear cells grafting combined with core decompression for Association Research Circulation Osseous II-IIIA stage non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) grafting combined with core decompression (CD) in the treatment of Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) II-IIIA stage non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

The clinical data of 44 patients (44 hips) with non-traumatic ONFH from December 2018 to December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty-four patients underwent CD combined with autologous PRP and BMMCs grafting (PRP+BMMCs group), and 20 patients underwent core decompression alone (CD group). During a minimum follow-up of 36 months, radiographic outcomes were evaluated using X-ray, radiographic failure rates were compared, and Harris hip score (HHS) and visual analog scale (VAS) were selected to evaluate clinical outcomes. The percentage of patients with minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in both groups was analyzed. Clinical failure was defined as further total hip arthroplasty (THA) with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Surgical complications were recorded.

RESULTS

All patients had well healed wounds, and no complications such as infection and thrombosis occurred. HHS and VAS scores in both the PRP+BMMCs and CD groups were better than those preoperatively (P<0.05). At the last follow-up, the HHS and VAS scores of the PRP+BMMCs group were significantly better than those of the CD group (P<0.05). In ARCO II-IIIA stage, 66.7% of the PRP+BMMCs group and 30.0% of the CD group achieved the MCID (P<0.05). The clinical and imaging failure rates in the PRP+BMMCs group were 12.5% and 20.8%, respectively, compared with 40.0% and 50.0% in the CD group (P<0.05). In ARCO II stage, the MCID, clinical and imaging failure rates of PRP+BMMCs group and CD group were 66.7% and 33.3% (P<0.05), 4.8% and 33.3% (P<0.05), 14.3% and 44.4% (P<0.05), respectively. The PRP+BMMCs group had better hip survival rate compared with CD group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

CD combined with autologous PRP and BMMCs grafting is a safe and effective method for the treatment of ARCO II-IIIA stage non-traumatic ONFH, especially for ARCO II stage, effectively reducing the collapse rate of the femoral head and delaying or even avoiding THA.

Treatment of non-traumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head (Review)

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head is the main cause of disability in young individuals and incurs major health care expenditure. The lifestyle changes in recent years, especially increased use of hormones and alcohol consumption, has greatly increased the incidence of femoral head necrosis. The underlying causes and risk factors of osteonecrosis of the femoral head are increasingly being elucidated, which has led to the development of novel surgical and non-surgical treatment options. Although the main goal of any treatment method is prevention and delaying the progression of disease, there is no common consensus on the most suitable method of treatment. The present review discussed the latest developments in the etiology and treatment methods for femoral head necrosis.

Core decompression combined with intralesional autologous bone marrow derived cell therapies for osteonecrosis of the femoral head in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Core decompression (CD) is beneficial in the early stage of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Adjunctive bone marrow derived cell therapies (BMDCT) have been advocated which potentially aid the regenerative process.

QUESTION/PURPOSE

This study was conducted to determine potential benefit of CD + BMDCT in ONFH, in terms of disease progression, conversion to arthroplasty (primary outcomes), and functional outcomes and complication rates (secondary outcomes).

METHODS

A systematic review of literature was performed on 3 databases. Studies reporting CD + BMDCT (intralesional instillation) in ONFH, with a minimum follow up of 1 year and reporting the pre-defined outcome measures were included in the review. Meta-analysis consisted of two different arms: a comparative arm, to compare CD + BMDCT to CD alone, and a non-comparative meta-analysis arm, to determine pooled rates of disease progression, conversion to arthroplasty and complication rates.

RESULTS

A total of 18 studies were included in the systematic review. CD + BMDCT had lower rates of disease progression (OR 0.19 [95% CI, 0.09, 0.40]) and conversion to arthroplasty (OR 0.20 [95% CI, 0.11, 0.40]) as compared to CD alone. Functional score (MD = -7.07 [95% CI, -12.28, -1.86]) and visual analog scale also showed better improvement with the use of CD + BMAC (MD = -10.39 [95% CI, -12.87, -7.90]). Increasing age and post-collapse stage at presentation were noted to have an adverse effect on the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

CD + BMDCT was found to decrease disease progression and conversion to arthroplasty, and was noted to have better functional outcome scores as compared to CD alone.

An injectable self-adaptive polymer as a drug carrier for the treatment of nontraumatic early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Core decompression (CD) with the elimination of osteonecrotic bone is the most common strategy for treating early-stage nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Adjuvant treatments are widely used in combination with CD as suitable methods of therapy. Existing augmentations have to be fabricated in advance. Here, we report a novel injectable glycerin-modified polycaprolactone (GPCL) that can adapt to the shape of the CD cavity. GPCL shows great flowability at 52.6 °C. After solidification, its compressive modulus was 120 kPa at body temperature (37 °C). This excellent characteristic enables the polymer to provide mechanical support in vivo. In addition, GPCL acts as a carrier of the therapeutic agent zoledronic acid (ZA), demonstrating sustained release into the CD region. ZA-loaded GPCL was injected into ONFH lesions to treat early-stage nontraumatic cases. Compared to that in the CD group, CD+ZA-loaded GPCL injection preserved bone density and increased the collagen level in the femoral head. At the interface between the GPCL and CD tunnel wall, osteogenesis was significantly promoted. In addition, morphological evaluations revealed that the femoral heads in the CD+ZA-GPCL group exhibited improved pressure resistance. These results suggest a strategy effective to preserve the bone density of the femoral head, thus decreasing the possibility of femoral head collapse. This novel injectable polymer has, therefore, considerable potential in clinical applications.

Autologous Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells (BMMCs) for the Treatment of Uncomplicated Grade 2 Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP) in Six Dogs: Preliminary Results

The aim of this study was to report the results of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMC) transplantation as a minimally invasive treatment for grade 2 UAP in dogs. This was an observational case series on six German shepherd dogs affected by grade 2 UAP as defined according to their clinical condition as well as radiographic and CT findings. Bone marrow was collected from the iliac crest and the mononuclear fraction was separated with density gradient centrifugation. Cells were suspended in fibrin glue before BMMC administration and implanted via transcutaneous injection under IB or CT guidance, using a spinal needle directly inserted into the ossification centre between the anconeal process and the olecranon. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was performed for up to 6 months. Microradiographic assessment was performed on one dog that died of other causes. A progressive reduction of pain within 3 weeks after BMMC administration was observed in all dogs, with gradually increased weight bearing on the affected limb. Radiographic and CT follow-up revealed the progressive fusion of the ossification centre at 90 days without any signs of secondary OA. The examination of microradiographs showed newly formed bone tissue in which a residue of calcified cartilage was present at the site of BMMC implantation. On the basis of these results, BMMC therapy for grade 2 UAP may be considered to be an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for dogs.

Inhibition of miR-93-5p promotes osteogenic differentiation in a rabbit model of trauma-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Trauma‐induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (TIONFH) is characterized by femoral head collapse accompanied by degenerative changes of the hip. We previously reported that miR‐93‐5p expression is abnormally high in patients with TIONFH, but the role of miR‐93‐5p in the TIONFH process remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of miR‐93‐5p in TIONFH in a rabbit model. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were used for both in vivo and in vitro experiments. A rabbit model of TIONFH was injected with BMSCs transfected with miR‐93‐5p inhibitor. In addition, both an miR‐93‐5p mimic and negative control were transfected into BMSCs. Expression of miR‐93‐5p was significantly increased in the model group compared with control samples. An miR‐93‐5p inhibitor induced the expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP‐2) and alkaline phosphatase. Furthermore, expression of osteogenesis‐related markers (BMP‐2, secreted phosphoprotein 1, RUNX family transcription factor 2 and Osterix) was higher in the miR‐93‐5p inhibitor group, as revealed by quantitative PCR and western blotting. In addition, in vitro experimentation revealed that an miR‐93‐5p mimic decreased BMP‐2 and TNF receptor superfamily member 11b expression, but increased receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappaB ligand expression. In summary, the miR‐93‐5p inhibitor could promote osteogenic differentiation by increasing BMP‐2 expression during the development of TIONFH. Thus, miR‐93‐5p may have potential as a therapeutic target for TIONF treatment.

Bone Marrow Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells as Autologous Therapy for Osteonecrosis: Effects of Age and Underlying Causes

Bone marrow (BM) is a reliable source of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), which have been successfully used for treating osteonecrosis. Considering the functional advantages of BM-MSCs as bone and cartilage reparatory cells and supporting angiogenesis, several donor-related factors are also essential to consider when autologous BM-MSCs are used for such regenerative therapies. Aging is one of several factors contributing to the donor-related variability and found to be associated with a reduction of BM-MSC numbers. However, even within the same age group, other factors affecting MSC quantity and function remain incompletely understood. For patients with osteonecrosis, several underlying factors have been linked to the decrease of the proliferation of BM-MSCs as well as the impairment of their differentiation, migration, angiogenesis-support and immunoregulatory functions. This review discusses the quality and quantity of BM-MSCs in relation to the etiological conditions of osteonecrosis such as sickle cell disease, Gaucher disease, alcohol, corticosteroids, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, diabetes, chronic renal disease and chemotherapy. A clear understanding of the regenerative potential of BM-MSCs is essential to optimize the cellular therapy of osteonecrosis and other bone damage conditions.

Japanese Orthopaedic Association 2019 Guidelines for osteonecrosis of the femoral head

PURPOSE

The Clinical Practice Guidelines for Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head (ONFH) 2019 Edition, written by the working group for ONFH guidelines of the Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) for ONFH under the auspices of the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare and endorsed by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association, were published in Japanese in October 2019. The objective of this guideline is to provide a support tool for decision-making between doctors and patients.

METHODS

Procedures for developing this guideline were based on the Medical Information Network Distribution Service Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development 2014, which proposed an appropriate method for preparing clinical guidelines in Japan.

RESULTS

This clinical practice guideline consists of 7 chapters: epidemiology; pathology; diagnosis; conservative therapy; surgical treatment: bone transplantation/cell therapy; surgical treatment: osteotomy; and surgical treatment: hip replacement. Twelve background questions and 13 clinical questions were determined to define the basic features of the disease and to be addressed when deciding treatment in daily practice, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical practice guidelines for the ONFH 2019 edition will be useful for physicians, investigators, and medical staff in clinical practice, as well as for patients, during the decision-making process when defining how to treat ONFH.

Recombinant human FGF-2 therapy for osteonecrosis of the femoral head: 5-year follow-up

Aim: To evaluate the 5-year outcomes from the prospective study of recombinant human FGF-2 (rhFGF-2) for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Methods: Ten patients (average age 39.8 years) with nontraumatic, precollapse ONFH were percutaneously administered with 800 μg rhFGF-2 contained in gelatin hydrogel. Radiological changes and the prevalidated Harris hip score (HHS), visual analogue scale for pain and University of California, Los Angeles activity-rating scale scoring systems were evaluated. Results: The 5-year comparison in type C2 showed higher joint preservation in the rhFGF-2 group (71.4%) than in the natural course group (15.4%). Two of three clinical scores (Harris hip score and visual analogue scale for pain) improved significantly. Postoperative MRI demonstrated significant reduction in ONFH size. There were no adverse events. Conclusion: rhFGF-2 treatment for ONFH appears to be safe and effective and may have the potential to prevent disease progression.

Core Decompression Combined with Implantation of Autologous Bone Marrow Concentrate with Tricalcium Phosphate Does Not Prevent Radiographic Progression in Early Stage Osteonecrosis of the Hip

Backgroud

Untreated osteonecrosis of the femoral head ultimately leads to secondary coxarthrosis. The aim of this study was to determinate if the core decompression of the femoral head combined with implantation of autologous bone marrow concentrate with tricalcium phosphate could be used to prevent radiographic progression of early stage osteonecrosis of the hip. We also sought to determine whether this treatment improved clinical outcomes and reduced the need for total hip arthroplasty.

Methods

Eighteen hips were included in the present study. All of them underwent core decompression of the femoral head combined with implantation of autologous bone marrow concentrate with tricalcium phosphate between 2007 and 2012. The cell concentrate was obtained from the posterior iliac crest and processed and implanted during the same surgical procedure. Patient demographic data, clinical data including modified Harris hip score, and radiological data were collected preoperatively, postoperatively, and during the follow-up period. Also, survival endpoints were analyzed: time of femoral head collapse and need for total hip arthroplasty.

Results

The mean age of patients was 37.8 years (standard deviation [SD], 9.31 years). The mean follow-up was 68.9 months (SD, 15.0 months). In most cases (70.6%), the etiology of the osteonecrosis of the femoral head was corticosteroid use; in the remaining cases, secondary to alcohol use. Core decompression of the femoral head combined with implantation of autologous bone marrow concentrate with tricalcium phosphate did not prevent progression to collapse (< 80% at 5 years) although modified Harris hip scores improved. Overall median survival with the total hip arthroplasty as endpoint was 23 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 14.9 to 31.1 months). Overall median survival time with any degree of collapse as endpoint was 7 months (95% CI, 2.0 to 12.0 months).

Conclusions

The results obtained in this study suggest that core decompression combined with implantation of autologous bone marrow concentrate and tricalcium phosphate will not prevent radiographic progression of early stage osteonecrosis of the hip. These finding also suggest that the absence of indications for hip replacement alone is not an indicator of good response to the treatment, and it is important to note the radiological results.

Fibula allograft propping as an effective treatment for early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) causes severe hip dysfunction. Left untreated, 80% of patients experience femoral head collapse, and 65-70% of patients require total hip arthroplasty (THA). Therefore, effective treatment is very important for ONFH.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effectiveness of fibula allografting for the treatment of early-stage ONFH METHODS: A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases using "avascular necrosis" or "ischemic necrosis" or "osteonecrosis" and "femoral head" and "fibula*," and checking the references of primary articles and reviews. Two independent authors completed the study selection separately. We extracted the following details from each article: characteristics of the patients, clinical efficacy evaluation (Harris hip score [HSS], radiographic outcomes, the rate of conversation to total hip arthroplasty [THA], and adverse effects).

RESULTS

A total of 213 articles were selected from PubMed (n = 45), EMBASE (n = 77), Web of Science (n = 203), and other sources (n = 10). After checking the articles, five articles were included in the final analysis. The average age of patients involved in this review was 34.48 years. The studies investigated fibula allografts to treat ONFH in 394 hips with a mean follow-up of 49.06 months. HHS was improved from 62.73 to 86.94. Radiographic progression was found in 33.66% of hips. The failure rate of head-saving surgery by THA was 14.5%. No patients had serious postoperative complications.

LIMITATIONS

The number of articles included in the study was small, and all studies were single-center studies. Most studies were retrospective with a low level of evidence. Surgical procedures were not identical with different follow-up times.

CONCLUSION

Although there are some limitations to our approach, this systematic review supports fibula allografting as a simple, effective treatment for early-stage ONFH, which presents less postoperative complications, and has a satisfactory clinical effect. We consider it to be worthy of promotion as a therapy for ONFH.

Joint-preserving procedures for osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a poorly understood condition that may lead to progressive destruction of the hip joint. Its incidence is common between the third and fifth decades of life and it is the diagnosis behind 5–18% of annually performed total hip arthroplasties (THAs) in the USA.

Regarding the high rate of complications of THA in that age group, authors have agreed on the importance of joint-preservation techniques for this disease but techniques vary to establish a generally accepted algorithmic approach.

Surgical head-preserving procedures, core decompression with or without graft, stem cell augmentation, or biologic adjuncts, vascularized bone grafting, and proximal femoral osteotomies have all been published on with heterogeneous results and with limited evidence to date.

Consensus states that the prognosis of patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head can be significantly improved with early diagnosis and timely intervention.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:647-658. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180073

[Hip preservation experience of avascular necrosis of femoral head according to China-Japan Friendship Hospital classification]

OBJECTIVE

To sum up staging treatment experiences of hip preservation for avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) according to China-Japan Friendship Hospital Classification (CJFH Classification).

METHODS

The literature about hip preservation of ANFH was extensively reviewed, and a staging treatment method for ANFH was set up base on CJFH Classification and the 28 years of clinical experience in this research group.

RESULTS

According to CJFH Classification, the ANFH can be rated as types M, C, and L. And the type L is rated as L1, L2, and L3 subtypes. The staging treatment method for ANFH based on CJFH Classification is set up. Conservative treatment was selected for CJFH-M patients because the necrotic area is small and in the medial non-weight-bearing area. Minimally invasive sequestrum clearance, impacting bone graft, and supporting allogenic fibular graft is selected for CJFH-C patients because the necrotic area is also small and in the lateral non-weight-bearing area. If patients are in CJFH-L1, normal bone area is less than 1/3 on hip abduction radiograph, the sequestrum clearance and impacting bone graft via surgical hip dislocation approach can be selected. If patients are in CJFH-L1, normal bone area is more than 1/3 on hip abduction radiograph, the transtrochanteric curved varus osteotomy can be selected. The rotational osteotomy on the base of femoral neck via surgical hip dislocation approach is for CJFH-L2 patients. Total hip arthroplasty via direct anterior approach is for CJFH-L3 patients.

CONCLUSION

The staging treatment method for ANFH according to CJFH Classification has good short-term effectiveness. But the long-term effectiveness needs further follow-up.

The efficacy and safety of core decompression for the treatment of femoral head necrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Core decompression (CD) is an important method for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Few articles investigate the influence of core decompression on outcomes of ONFH. This study was carried out to observe the safety and effectiveness of core decompression in the treatment of ONFH.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library was performed to collect the related studies. The medical subject headings used were "femur head necrosis" and "Core decompression." The relevant words in title or abstract included but not limited to "Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head," "femoral head necrosis," "avascular necrosis of femoral head," and "ischemic necrosis of femoral head." The methodological index for nonrandomized studies was adopted for assessing the studies included in this review.

RESULTS

Thirty-two studies included 1865 patients (2441 hips). Twenty-one studies (1301 hips) using Ficat staging standard, 7 studies (338hips) using Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) staging standard, and University of Pennsylvania system for staging avascular necrosis (UPSS) staging criteria for 4 studies (802 hips). All the studies recorded the treatment, 22 studies (1379 hips) were treated with core decompression (CD) alone, and 7 studies (565 hips) were treated with core decompression combined with autologous bone (CD Autologous bone). Nine subjects (497 hips) were treated with core decompression combined with autologous bone marrow (CD Marrow). Twenty-seven studies (2120 hips) documented the number of conversion to total hip replacement (THA), and 26 studies (1752hips) documented the number of radiographic progression (RP). Twenty-one studies recorded the types of complications and the number of cases, a total of 69 cases. The random-effect model was used for meta-analysis, and the results showed that the overall success rate was 65%. The rate of success showed significant difference on the outcomes of different stages. The rate of success, conversion to THA, and radiographic progression showed significant difference on the outcomes of ONFH using different treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Core decompression is an effective and safe method of treating ONFH. The combined use of autologous bone or bone marrow can increase the success rate. For advanced femoral head necrosis, the use of CD should be cautious. High-quality randomized controlled trials and prospective studies will be necessary to clarify the effects of different etiology factors, treatments, and postoperative rehabilitation. Until then, the surgeon can choose core decompression to treat ONFH depending on the patient's condition.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I Meta-analysis.

Autologous cell-based therapy for treatment of large bone defects: from bench to bedside

OBJECTIVES

Reconstruction of long segmental bone defects is demanding for patients and surgeons, and associated with long-term treatment periods and substantial complication rates in addition to high costs. While defects up to 4-5 cm length might be filled up with autologous bone graft, heterologous bone from cadavers, or artificial bone graft substitutes, current options to reconstruct bone defects greater than 5 cm consist of either vascularized free bone transfers, the Masquelet technique or the Ilizarov distraction osteogenesis. Alternatively, autologous cell transplantation is an encouraging treatment option for large bone defects as it eliminates problems such as limited autologous bone availability, allogenic bone immunogenicity, and donor-site morbidity, and might be used for stabilizing loose alloplastic implants.

METHODS

The authors show different cell therapies without expansion in culture, with ex vivo expansion and cell therapy in local bone defects, bone healing and osteonecrosis. Different kinds of cells and scaffolds investigated in our group as well as in vivo transfer studies and BMC used in clinical phase I and IIa clinical trials of our group are shown.

RESULTS

Our research history demonstrated the great potential of various stem cell species to support bone defect healing. It was clearly shown that the combination of different cell types is superior to approaches using single cell types. We further demonstrate that it is feasible to translate preclinically developed protocols from in vitro to in vivo experiments and follow positive convincing results into a clinical setting to use autologous stem cells to support bone healing.

Tracking Cell Transplants in Femoral Osteonecrosis with Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Proof-of-Concept Study in Patients

PURPOSE

Osteonecrosis is a devastating complication of high-dose corticosteroid therapy in patients with cancer. Core decompression for prevention of bone collapse has been recently combined with the delivery of autologous concentrated bone marrow aspirates. The purpose of our study was to develop an imaging test for the detection of transplanted bone marrow cells in osteonecrosis lesions.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

In a prospective proof-of-concept clinical trial (NCT02893293), we performed serial MRI studies of nine hip joints of 7 patients with osteonecrosis before and after core decompression. Twenty-four to 48 hours prior to the surgery, we injected ferumoxytol nanoparticles intravenously to label cells in normal bone marrow with iron oxides. During the surgery, iron-labeled bone marrow cells were aspirated from the iliac crest, concentrated, and then injected into the decompression track. Following surgery, patients received follow-up MRI up to 6 months after bone marrow cell transplantation.

RESULTS

Iron-labeled cells could be detected in the access canal by a dark (negative) signal on T2-weighted MR images. T2* relaxation times of iron-labeled cell transplants were significantly lower compared with unlabeled cell transplants of control patients who were not injected with ferumoxytol (P = 0.02). Clinical outcomes of patients who received ferumoxytol-labeled or unlabeled cell transplants were not significantly different (P = 1), suggesting that the added ferumoxytol administration did not negatively affect bone repair.

CONCLUSIONS

This immediately clinically applicable imaging test could become a powerful new tool to monitor the effect of therapeutic cells on bone repair outcomes after corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis.

Clinical reports of surgical dislocation of the hip with sequestrum clearance and impacting bone graft for grade IIIA-IIIB aseptic necrosis of femoral head (ANFH) patients

Objective

To analyze the treatment effect of surgical dislocation of the hip with sequestrum clearance and impacting bone graft in grade IIIA-IIIB aseptic necrosis of femoral head (ANFH) patients.

Methods

From June 2012 to December 2014, 6 patients (total 8 hips) with grade IIIA-IIIB ANFH were retrospectively followed. All the patients were operated with surgical dislocation of the hip with sequestrum clearance and impacting bone graft. Collapse of the femoral head, healing of the osteotomy, along with Harris hip scores were observed after surgeries.

Results

All the patients were followed up, the osteotomies were all healed. Only 1 of the 8 hips (12.5%) was collapsed by the last follow-up. Harris hip scores were improved from 54.52 ± 8.16 to 80.53 ± 7.62 (P <0.001). The excellent rate was 87.5%.

Conclusion

For grade IIIA-IIIB ANFH patients, surgical dislocation with sequestrum clearance and impacting bone graft could possibly achieve satisfactory clinical benefit, particularly for the young patients.

Investigating clinical failure of core decompression with autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells grafting for the treatment of non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the clinical factors related to the failure of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells grafting (BMMCG) following core decompression (CD) in early stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

In total, 148 patients (192 hips) underwent CD with autologous BMMCG for treatment of non-traumatic ONFH. The patients were classified by their ARCO staging and China-Japan Friendship Hospital (CJFH) typing system. All patients were clinically and radiographically followed up every three months during the first year and every six months in the following years. The clinical evaluation was conducted by pre- and post-operative Harris hip scores (HHS), while serial anteroposterior (AP) and frog lateral radiographs were used for post-operative radiographic evaluation.

RESULTS

There were 56 hips as clinical failure cases, and 50 hips (89.29%) of failure cases developed between three and ten months after operation. Based on CJFH classification system, type L2 showed more failure rate with 60.0% (9 of15). The Cox risk model showed that disease type was an independent risk factor for post-operative clinical failure (P = 0.042). Multivariate analysis of the Cox proportional-hazards model showed that type L1 had a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.286 (95% CI 0.100-0.816), type L3 with HR of 0.245 (95% CI 0.079-0.759), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Disease type is an important risk factor for autologous BMMCG combined with CD, and the degree of lateral pillar necrosis is a significant reference index for prognosis evaluation in early stage of ONFH.

Early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head: where are we and where are we going in year 2018?

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a devastating condition affecting relatively young patients whereby the femoral head is necrotic, resulting in significant pain, articular surface collapse, and eventual osteoarthritis. This condition has been highly associated with chronic steroid use, alcoholism, and hip trauma, as well as other less common conditions. Without intervention, this condition has a high likelihood of progressing and developing into end-stage osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, ONFH is difficult to diagnose on plain radiographs in the early stages of the disease, and often requires more advanced imaging modalities such as MRI in order to fully assess for early degeneration. Providers, therefore, must have a high index of suspicion when a younger patient presents with hip pain and negative X-rays. Unfortunately, in patients whose femoral heads have already collapsed, joint-preserving procedures are not effective, and total hip arthroplasty remains the most reliable long-term treatment. Multiple treatments have been pursued to address osteonecrosis in patients whose femoral head have not yet collapsed, but the results of these treatments are mixed. The most promising of these interventions to date is core decompression with the use of concentrated bone marrow aspirate to improve the healing potential of the femoral head. Further studies including randomized clinical trials are necessary in order to assess the effectiveness of this therapy, the best possible source of cells and the best method of implantation in order to further improve results in those with pre-collapse ONFH.

Regenerative therapies increase survivorship of avascular necrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to document the available evidence on the use of regenerative techniques for the treatment of femoral head osteonecrosis (or avascular necrosis of femoral head, AVN) and to understand their benefit compared to core decompression (CD) alone in avoiding failure and the need for total hip replacement (THR).

METHODS

The search was conducted on three medical electronic databases according to PRISMA guidelines. The studies reporting number and timing of failures were included in a meta-analysis calculating cumulative survivorship with a Kaplan-Mayer curve. Moreover, the results on failures in treatment groups reported in RCT were compared with those documented in control groups, in order to understand the benefit of biological therapies compared to CD for the treatment of AVN.

RESULTS

Forty-eight studies were included in this systematic review, reporting results of different types of regenerative techniques: mesenchymal stem cell implantation in the osteonecrotic area, intra-arterial infiltration with mesenchymal stem cells, implantation of bioactive molecules, or platelet-rich plasma. Overall, reported results were good, with a cumulative survivorship of 80% after ten year follow-up, and better results when regenerative treatments were combined to CD compared to CD alone (89.9% vs 70.6%, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Regenerative therapies offer good clinical results for the treatment of AVN. The combination of CD with regenerative techniques provides a significant improvement in terms of survivorship over time compared with CD alone. Further studies are needed to identify the best procedure and the most suitable patients to benefit from regenerative treatments for AVN.

Inefficacy of autologous bone marrow concentrate in stage three osteonecrosis: a randomized controlled double-blind trial

PURPOSE

The fracture stage of non-traumatic osteonecrosis (ON stage 3) of the femoral head (ONFH) has an unfavourable prognosis frequently requiring total hip replacement (THR). The percentage could be lowered after core decompression. In earlier non-fracture ON stages, implantation of autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) improved the effect of core decompression. The purpose was to evaluate the effect of BMAC in addition to core decompression in stage 3 ONFH.

METHODS

A double blind RCT was conducted comparing two groups: core decompression plus saline injection or core decompression plus BMAC implantation. Both patients and assessors were blinded to the treatment assignments. Evaluations were done at baseline, three, six, 12, and 24 months, including pain (VAS), WOMAC, side-effects, radiological evolution including ARCO subclassifications, together with possible THR requirement. The primary endpoint was the need for THR. The second endpoints included the clinical symptoms such as pain and functional ability and the progression of the ON lesions as well as the appearance of osteoarthritis features (ARCO stage 4). Both groups included 23 hips (19 patients).

RESULTS

No differences were found between the groups for THR requirements, clinical tests, and radiological evolution. In both groups, 15/23 hips needed THR. The radiological evolution of the ONFH lesions in term of location, extension, surface collapse, and dome depression was moderate in both groups and was not correlated with the need of THR.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of BMAC after core decompression did not produce any improvement of the evolution of ONFH stage 3. Level of evidence I.

Core decompression and biotechnologies in the treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head (FH) causes 5% to 12% of total hip arthroplasties (THA). It especially affects active male adults between the third and fifth decades of life. The exact worldwide incidence is unknown. There are only few data related to each country, but most of it relates to the United States.Non-surgical management has a very limited role in the treatment of AVN of the FH and only in its earliest stages. Core decompression (CD) of the hip is the most common procedure used to treat the early stages of AVN of the FH. Recently, surgeons have considered combining CD with autologous bone-marrow cells, demineralised bone matrix or bone morphogenetic proteins or methods of angiogenic potential to enhance bone repair in the FH.Manuscripts were deemed eligible for our review if they evaluated treatment of early stage AVN of the FH with biotechnology implanted via CD. After application of eligibility criteria, we selected 19 reports for final analysis.The principal results showed that only by correctly mastering the therapeutic principles and adopting proper methods specifically oriented to different stages can the best therapeutic effect be achieved. Combining CD with biotechnology could result in a novel long-lasting hip- preserving treatment option.Furthermore, more refined clinical studies are needed to establish the effectiveness of biotechnology treatments in AVN of the FH. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:41-50. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.150006.

Combined with Bone Marrow-Derived Cells and rhBMP-2 for Osteonecrosis after Femoral Neck Fractures in Children and Adolescents: A case series

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) following femoral neck fractures is a rare, yet severe, disorder in children and adolescents. This study evaluated the effectiveness of core decompression (CD) combined with implantation of bone marrow-derived cells (BMDC) and rhBMP-2 for osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) after femoral neck fractures in children and adolescents. This study included 51 patients, aged 11.4-18.1 years, with ARCO stages I-III ONFH after femoral neck fractures between 2004 and 2010. The hips were divided into two groups based on whether the lateral pillar of the femoral head (LPFH) was preserved: LPFH and non-LPFH groups. All patients were followed up clinically and radiographically for a minimum of 5 years. 44 patients (86.3%) had improved clinical outcome. Radiologically, 9 of the 51 hips (17.6%) exhibited collapse onset or progression of the femoral head or narrowing of the hip joint space, and one patient in the non-LPFH group required hip arthroplasty due to the worsened syndrome. The technique provided an effective therapeutic option for children and adolescents with ONFH following femoral neck fractures. It relieves hip pain and prevents the progression of osteonecrosis in young patients lasting more than 5 years after surgery.

Stem Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Hip Osteonecrosis: A 30-Year Review of Progress

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is caused by a multitude of etiologic factors and is associated with collapse with a risk of hip arthroplasty in younger populations. A focus on early disease management with the use of stem cells was proposed as early as 1985 by the senior author (PH). We undertook a systematic review of the medical literature to examine the progress in cell therapy during the last 30 years for the treatment of early stage osteonecrosis.

Nontraumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: Where Do We Stand Today? A Ten-Year Update

➤ Although multiple theories have been proposed, no one pathophysiologic mechanism has been identified as the etiology for the development of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. However, the basic mechanism involves impaired circulation to a specific area that ultimately becomes necrotic.➤ A variety of nonoperative treatment regimens have been evaluated for the treatment of precollapse disease, with varying success. Prospective, multicenter, randomized trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of these regimens in altering the natural history of the disease.➤ Joint-preserving procedures are indicated in the treatment of precollapse disease, with several studies showing successful outcomes at mid-term and long-term follow-up.➤ Studies of total joint arthroplasty, once femoral head collapse is present, have described excellent outcomes at greater than ten years of follow-up, which is a major advance and has led to a paradigm shift in treating these patients.➤ The results of hemiresurfacing and total resurfacing arthroplasty have been suboptimal, and these procedures have restricted indications in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

A current review of non-vascularized bone grafting in osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Over the past three decades, non-vascularized bone grafts have been demonstrated to be viable treatments for pre- and early post-collapse osteonecrosis of the femoral head; however, there are limited reviews on this topic. Therefore, the purposes of this review are to (1) provide a summary of the different surgical techniques and their respective clinical outcomes and (2) evaluate new adjunct therapies. Originally, non-vascularized bone grafting was performed using the Phemister technique with varying results. More recently, newer techniques such as the lightbulb and trapdoor are used to place non-vascularized bone grafts with excellent results. The addition of various biological agents has demonstrated positive results; however, further studies are needed to confirm the best appropriate indications and to elucidate long-term results.

Efficacy of autologous stem cell-based therapy for osteonecrosis of the femoral head in sickle cell disease: a five-year follow-up study

INTRODUCTION

Stem cell therapy with bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMMCs) is an option for improving joint function in osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) numbers and their osteogenic differentiation are decreased in patients with ONFH. However, whether this decrease also extends to the early stages of ONFH in sickle cell disease (SCD) is still unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a phase I/II, non-controlled study to determine efficacy and safety of BMMC implantation using a minimally invasive technique in SCD patients with ONFH. Eighty-nine patients were recruited and followed up for 60 months after surgery. Clinical and radiographic findings were assessed, and data were completed by in vitro analysis.

RESULTS

At the final follow-up (60 months) there was a significant improvement in clinical joint symptoms and pain relief as measured by the Harris Hip Score (P = 0.0005). In addition, after the BMMC implantation procedure, radiographic assessment showed disease stabilization and only 3.7 % of the treated patients did not achieve a satisfactory clinical result. The amount of fibroblast colony-forming units was 28.2 ± 13.9 per 1 million BMMCs after concentration. Flow cytometry analysis showed a significantly higher number of hematopoietic stem/endothelial progenitor cell markers in concentrated BMMCs when compared with bone marrow aspirate, indicating an enrichment of these cell types. Isolated MSCs from SCD patients with pre-collapse ONFH maintained the replicative capacity without significant loss of their specific biomolecular characteristics, multi-differentiation potential, and osteogenic differentiation activities. Cytokines and growth factors (interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-beta, stromal cell-derived factor-1alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor) that mediate endogenous bone regeneration were also produced by expanded MSCs from SCD patients.

CONCLUSION

The autologous BMMC implantation with a minimally invasive technique resulted in significant pain relief and halted the progression of early stages of ONFH in SCD patients. MSCs from SCD patients display biological properties that may add to the efficiency of surgical treatment in ONFH. In summary, our results indicate that infusion of BMMCs enriched with stem/progenitor cells is a safe and effective treatment for the early stages of ONFH in SCD patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02448121; registered 15 May 2015.

Hyperbaric oxygen for stage I and II femoral head osteonecrosis

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a suggested joint-preserving treatment for symptomatic early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Limited studies of this treatment have been published. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment in a relatively large patient cohort. The authors reviewed the files of 68 patients with 78 symptomatic joints with Steinberg stage I and II osteonecrosis of the femoral head. All patients were treated with hyperbaric oxygen at the authors' medical health center. Pretreatment and immediate posttreatment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were compared. On follow-up, a telephone interview was conducted to determine the survival of the joint. Modified Harris Hip Score and Short Form 12 health survey (SF-12) questionnaires of the start of treatment and at follow-up were obtained and evaluated for statistically significant differences. Half of the joints were stage 1 and half were stage II. Seventy-four joints underwent both pre- and posttreatment MRI. Eighty-eight percent of joints showed improvement posttreatment. On follow-up at a mean of 11.1±5.1 years, 54 patients (58 joints) were located and answered the questionnaires. At the time of follow-up, 93% of the joints survived. Mean Harris Hip Score improved from 21 to 81 (P<.0001), the mean physical component of the SF-12 improved from 24 to 46 (P<.0001), and the mean mental component of the SF-12 improved from 54 to 59 (P<.0001). The authors concluded that hyperbaric oxygen treatment is effective in preserving the hip joint in stage I and II osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

Mesenchymal stromal cells and rheumatic diseases: new tools from pathogenesis to regenerative therapies

In recent years, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been largely investigated and tested as a new therapeutic tool for several clinical applications, including the treatment of different rheumatic diseases. MSCs are responsible for the normal turnover and maintenance of adult mesenchymal tissues as the result of their multipotent differentiation abilities and their secretion of a variety of cytokines and growth factors. Although initially derived from bone marrow, MSCs are present in many different tissues such as many peri-articular tissues. MSCs may exert immune-modulatory properties, modulating different immune cells in both in vitro and in vivo models, and they are considered immune-privileged cells. At present, these capacities are considered the most intriguing aspect of their biology, introducing the possibility that these cells may be used as effective therapy in autoimmune diseases. Therefore, stem cell therapies may represent an innovative approach for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, especially for the forms that are not responsive to standard treatments or alternatively still lacking a definite therapy. At present, although the data from scientific literature appear to suggest that such treatments might be more effective whether administered as soon as possible, the use of MSCs in clinical practice is likely to be restricted to patients with a long history of a severe refractory disease. Further results from larger clinical trials are needed to corroborate preclinical findings and human non-controlled studies, and advancement in the knowledge of MSCs might provide information about the therapeutic role of these cells in the treatment of many rheumatic diseases.

Cotransplantation of bone marrow mononuclear cells and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in avascular necrosis of the femoral head

OBJECTIVE

We sought to investigate the therapeutic effects of cotransplantation of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) and allogeneic umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) on avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH).

METHODS

In all, 30 patients (49 hips; 24 males and 6 females) with ANFH were enrolled. According to the system of the Association Research Circulation Osseous, there were 24 hips in phase II and 25 hips in phase Ⅲ. Blood supply to the femoral head was evaluated by using digital subtraction angiography. Generally, 60 to 80 mL of autologous BMMNCs and 30 to 50 mL of UC-MSCs were infused into the femoral head artery. Harris scores including pain and joint function were used to evaluate the effects before and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after transplantation. Computed tomography and radiographs were performed before and 12 months after the treatment.

RESULTS

Clinical symptoms of pain and claudication were gradually improved. After the treatment, 93.3% (28/30), 86.7% (26/30), and 86.7% (26/30) of patients showed relief of hip pain, improvement of joint function, and extended walking distances, respectively. The Harris scores were increased significantly at 3, 6, and 12 months posttransplant compared with those pretransplant. In addition, the bone lesions in 89.7% of hips (44/49) were improved as showed on computed tomography after transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Cotransplantation of autologous BMMNCs and allogeneic UC-MSCs showed therapeutic effect on ANFH without severe adverse effects.

Osteonecrosis repair with bone marrow cell therapies: state of the clinical art

INTRODUCTION

Hip osteonecrosis is a pathological condition resulting from cellular impairment due to reduction in osteoblast activity and local mesenchymal stem cell populations. Cell-based therapies might aid in overcoming these deficiencies by providing stem cells and other progenitor cells to potentially improve the local cellular environment in the affected hip.

METHODS

A PubMed search, using the search terms "hip osteonecrosis" and "mesenchymal stem cells", was conducted in December 2013. A total of 15 publications were identified and reviewed for clinical outcomes.

FINDINGS

Clinical studies of patients with osteonecrosis treated with mesenchymal stem cells showed beneficial effects. No unexpected adverse events were identified in these studies. Core decompression was the usual method for autologous bone marrow cell implantation into the femoral head. However, other methods have been used such as arterial or venous delivery. A rationale for the use of cytotherapy, as well as the different descriptions of the techniques of implantation MSCs (autologous vs. allogenic, concentration vs. expansion), is provided in the context of treating hip osteonecrosis. Current problems and future challenges with cytotherapy and associated techniques are discussed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Stem Cells and Bones".

Complete resolution of avascular necrosis of the human femoral head treated with adipose tissue-derived stem cells and platelet-rich plasma

We report a case of a 43-year-old man with early stage (stage 1) avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head treated with adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). ASC-containing stromal vascular fraction was mixed with PRP and hyaluronic acid. This mixture was then injected into the diseased hip under ultrasound guidance. The affected hip was reinjected weekly with additional PRP for 4 weeks. The patient was followed-up with sequential magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at 3, 18, and 21 months after treatment, together with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Walking Index, Functional Rating Index, Harris Hip Score, and Range of Motion (ROM) assessments. The patient's severe hip pain was considerably improved at 3 months after treatment, with pain scores, ROM and MRI showing near complete resolution of AVN. Pain scores, ROM and MRI at 18 and 21 months after treatment indicated complete resolution of AVN. This case represents the first evidence of complete resolution of early stage AVN of the hip following treatment with ASCs/PRP.

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 in debridement and impacted bone graft for the treatment of femoral head osteonecrosis

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of impacted bone graft with or without recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). We examined the effect of bone-grafting through a window at the femoral head-neck junction, known as the “light bulb” approach, for the treatment of ONFH with a combination of artificial bone (Novobone) mixed with or without rhBMP-2. A total of 42 patients (72 hips) were followed-up from 5 to 7.67 years (average of 6.1 years). The patients with and without BMP were the first group (IBG+rhBMP-2) and the second group (IBG), respectively. The clinical effectiveness was evaluated by Harris hip score (HHS). The radiographic follow-up was evaluated by pre-and postoperative X-ray and CT scan. Excellent, good, and fair functions were obtained in 36, 12, and 7 hips, respectively. The survival rate was 81.8% and 71.8% in the first and second group, respectively. However, the survival rate was 90.3% in ARCO stage IIb, c, and only 34.6% in ARCO stage IIIa(P<0.05). It was concluded that good and excellent mid-term follow-up could be achieved in selected patients with ONFH treated with impacted bone graft operation. The rhBMP-2 might improve the clinical efficacy and quality of bone repair.

Stem cell therapy for the treatment of early stage avascular necrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review

Background

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head (FH) is believed to be caused by a multitude of etiologic factors and is associated with significant morbidity in younger populations. Eventually, the disease progresses and results in FH collapse. Thus, a focus on early disease management aimed at joint preservation by preventing or delaying progression is key. The use of stem cells (SC) for the treatment of AVN of the FH has been proposed. We undertook a systematic review of the medical literature examining the use of SC for the treatment of early stage (precollapse) AVN of the FH, in both pre-clinical and clinical studies.

Methods

Data collected included: Pre-clinical studies – model of AVN, variety and dosage of SC, histologic and imaging analyses. Clinical studies – study design, classification and etiology of AVN, SC dosage and treatment protocol, incidence of disease progression, patient reported outcomes, volume of necrotic lesion and hip survivorship.

Results

In pre-clinical studies, the use of SC uniformly demonstrated improvements in osteogenesis and angiogenesis, yet source of implanted SC was variable. In clinical studies, groups treated with SC showed significant improvements in patient reported outcomes; however hip survivorship was not affected. Discrepancies regarding dose of SC, AVN etiology and disease severity were present.

Conclusions

Routine use of this treatment method will first require further research into dose and quality optimization as well as confirmed improvements in hip survivorship.

Quality of sexual life after total hip arthroplasty in male patients with osteonecrosis of femoral head

BACKGROUND

Patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) have a severe impact on their health status, functionality and quality of life. Sexual life is an important component of the quality of life and is still a frequently neglected domain in patients with ONFH. The aims of the study were to evaluate the influence of the disease and the total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgery on quality of sexual life (QSL) in these patients.

METHODS

A prospective, self-controlled study was done. 247 patients of ONFH who underwent unilateral or bilateral THA were asked to complete a standardized QSL questionnaire, and the score of QSL was evaluated preoperatively and at first year follow-up of post-THA operation.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patient was 46.8 (range 25-60) years. 194 cases (78.5%, 276 hips) were alcohol-induced ONFH. There is significant decrease (p = 0.026) in sexual relationship impairment on the 0-8 scale from pre-THA (5.3 ± 0.7) to post-THA (2.3 ± 0.4). There is no significant difference for effect on sexual function (p = 0.14) between pre-THA (2.3 ± 0.4) and post-THA (1.8 ± 0.3). There is significant improvement (p = 0.018) in overall sexual satisfaction degree of patients on the 1-5 scale from pre-THA (2.7 ± 0.2) to post-THA (4.7 ± 0.6), but no significant increase for sexual partner.

CONCLUSION

ONFH has impaired relationships with partner and overall sexual satisfaction degree of the male patients; THA has improved significantly relationships with partner and overall sexual satisfaction degree of the male patients, but no effect on sexual function of the patients and overall sexual satisfaction degree of sexual partner.

The efficacy of targeted intraarterial delivery of concentrated autologous bone marrow containing mononuclear cells in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a five year follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of targeted delivery of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs), which are highly enriched with mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs), via medial circumflex femoral artery in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

62 patients (78 hips) with ONFH were recruited in this study. All of these patients were treated with BMMCs perfusion via medial circumflex femoral artery. The concentrated BMMCs (30-60ml) were gained from autologous bone marrow (100-200ml) harvested from anterior iliac crest and then were intra-arterially perfused into the femoral head. Ficat stage was used to classify the radiological stage of ONFH. Harris hip score was used to evaluate the clinical symptoms of osteonecrosis. Ficat stage and Harris hip scores were assessed at onset of treatment at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60months after the initial treatment. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) was also assessed as an endpoint at each follow-up.

RESULTS

A follow-up on the patient was done at the end of five years, and 92.31% (72 of 78) of hips achieved a satisfactory clinical result while only 6 hips (7.69%) progressed to clinical failure and required THA. Radiological progression was noted in 34 of 78 hips (43.59%); the overall rate of collapse was 38.24% (26 of 68 hips) in stage-I and stage-II hip combinations and 12.5% (2 of 16) in stage-I hips and 46.15% (24 of 52) in stage-II hips. The mean time of conversion to THA was 3years (1 to 5years) and the average time to collapse were 3.5years (1-5years). The mean Harris hip score increased from 59 points at baseline to 75 points at 12months, 82 points at 24months, 81 points at 36months, 79 points at 48months and 74 points at 60months. Five years after the treatment, 3 of 10 hips (30%) in stage-III had deteriorated to clinical failure whereas only 3 of 68 hips (4.41%) in stage-I and II combination had progressed to clinical failure (p<0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a significant difference in the time to failure between the pre-collapse hips (Ficat stage-I and II) and the post-collapse hips (Ficat stage-III) at five years follow-up (Log-rank test; p<0.01). No complication was found in any patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous BMMSC perfusion via the medial circumflex femoral artery can relieve symptoms, improve hip function and delay the progression of ONFH. The clinical outcome is better when it is applied prior to the collapse. This work demonstrates that autologous BMMSC perfusion via the medial circumflex femoral artery is a safe, effective and minimally invasive treatment strategy for early-stage ONFH.

[Autologous concentrated bone marrow graft in the treatment of femoral head avascular necrosis: clinical outcome after two years of follow up in a non-controlled prospective study]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of implanting concentrated bone marrow rich in mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for the treatment of femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN) to prevent or delay total hip replacement (THR).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-centre, prospective, non-controlled clinical study was conducted on patients with a diagnosis of AVN. The parameters assessed were, patient demographics, Harris Hip Score (HHS), imaging test (X-ray and NMR), and staging using the Arlet-Ficat scale. The patients were followed up for 1, 6, 12 and 24 months. The bone marrow was aspirated from the iliac crest, concentrated with the Harvest SmartPReP 2 system, and infused into the necrotic area by means of core decompression.

RESULTS

A total of 22 hips in 17 patients were recruited between the years 2006 to 2012, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. A mean of 119.5 mL of aspirate was extracted, with 15.25 ml of MSC being implanted. During the first 2 years of the infusion, 5 hips (24.7%) required THR, with no differences in the baseline Arlet-Ficat stage, and 4 of these (80%) had femoral head involvement equal to or higher than 30%. A significant increase of 14.27 (P=.026) in the HHS and a 0.98 (P=.089) decrease in the VAS was observed two years after the infusion in the remaining 17 hips. The results suggest that the infusion of concentrated bone marrow rich in MSC, combined with surgical decompression of the nucleus, improves hip function (HHS), and avoids THR in 75.3% of patients with AVN treated during the first 2 years.

Core decompression and implantation of bone marrow mononuclear cells with porous hydroxylapatite composite filler for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head

BACKGROUND

Implanted bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) may promote both osteogenesis and angiogenesis in the femoral head. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of core decompression and implantation of BMMCs with porous hydroxyapatite bone filler for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

Patients with ONFH underwent core decompression and implantation of nano-hydroxyapatite/polyamide bone filler with or without BMMCs. Primary outcomes were changes in Harris hip and visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores. Secondary outcomes included radiological and clinical success rates, adverse events, and complications.

RESULTS

Demographic/baseline characteristics were similar between groups (BMMC, n = 17 with 26 ONFH hips; control, n = 17 with 27 ONFH hips). Harris hip scores were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in both groups of patients after surgery (last follow-up). The magnitude of increase was significantly greater in the BMMC as compared with the control group (28.6 ± 0.5 vs. 18.4 ± 1.7 %, P < 0.001). VAS scores were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in both groups after surgery (last follow-up). The magnitude of decrease was significantly greater in the BMMC as compared with the control group (-66.3 ± 1.4 vs. -51.7 ± 2.9 %, P < 0.001). Radiological and clinical success rates were significantly higher in the BMMC as compared with the control group (82.5 vs. 40.7 % and 75.4 vs. 37.0 %, respectively, P < 0.001). Postoperative collapse of the femoral head was less common in the BMMC as compared with the control group (17.5 vs. 59.3 %, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Both core decompression with or without implantation of BMMC are effective treatment for ONFH. However, core decompression with implantation of BMMCs and porous hydroxyapatite bone filler may be a more effective treatment for ONFH.