Bleeding in TKA: posterior stabilized vs. cruciate retaining

Posterior cruciate-retaining versus posterior stabilising prostheses for primary total knee arthroplasty in treating osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Total knee replacements (TKRs) are successful operations that utilities several operative techniques including cruciate retaining (CR) and posterior stabilising (PS) prostheses. To date, neither approach has proved superior. Techniques and implants are under constant evolution and new trials are published. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to determine the current risks and benefits of these two approaches so that an up-to-date clinical recommendation can be given as to which approach if any is superior.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, EBCSO, and Google Scholar. Risk of bias was assessed based on the Cochrane risk of bias criteria. Meta-analysisusing the random effects model was performed by the STATA software and results were displayed on forest plots. Sensitivity analysis was performed for possible causes of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

From 1164 studies, 15 eligible trials were included. Meta-analysis showed that the CR approach had significantly lower Range of Motion and HSS scores. There was no significant difference in KSS, OKS, VAS, or WOMAC scores. Blood loss was significantly less in the CR group. However, there was no significant difference in total complications or revisions. Sensitivity analysis did not reveal any differences in the results.

CONCLUSION

Despite inherent limitations, this updated meta-analysis suggests that both CR and PS approaches continue to be equivocal in terms of clinical outcomes. Both patients and surgeons can be confident in selecting either approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

the protocol of this systematic review has been registered on PROSPERO.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023391435.

Cruciate-Retaining Total Knee Arthroplasty versus Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty in Medial Compartmental Osteoarthritis: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of Early Postoperative Recovery

Background

Cruciate-retaining (CR) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may provide better physiological knee kinematics, proprioception, and quadricep recovery than posterior-stabilized (PS) TKA. Therefore, we hypothesized that CR TKA with multimodal pain control may provide comparable postoperative pain and recovery as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

Methods

This study included patients with isolated medial compartment knee osteoarthritis who underwent CR TKA and UKA. TKA and UKA patients were propensity score-matched with age and body mass index (BMI) and compared using visual analog scales (VAS) for pain scores, total amount of morphine use (TMU), knee flexion angle, straight leg raise (SLR), independent ambulation, length of hospital stay (LOS), and costs during hospitalization.

Results

After propensity score matching, 46 patients were included in the TKA and UKA groups, respectively, with no differences in demographic data. VAS at 6-72 h and TMU at 48 h after surgery were comparable between the groups. The knee flexion angle in the UKA group was significantly higher at 24 h (60.0° vs 46.6°; p<0.001) and 48 h (76.9° vs 69.1°; p = 0.021) than that in the TKA group. The SLR in the UKA group was significantly higher than that in the TKA group at 24-72 h. The UKA group ambulated significantly earlier (1.56 vs 2.13 days; p<0.001), had shorter LOS (3.68 vs 4.28 days; p<0.004) and incurred 12.43% lower costs when compared to the TKA group.

Conclusion

Patients who underwent CR TKA with multimodal pain management did not experience more postoperative pain or morphine use than those who underwent UKA. However, UKA patients seem to experienced faster recovery and shorter LOS than CR-TKA patients during the early postoperative course. Accordingly, UKA may be considered instead of TKA for patients who are good candidates for UKA and require expedited recovery.

Comparison of the effect of open-box versus closed-box prostheses on blood loss following total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

Purpose

Postoperative blood loss is a common complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The authors aimed to analyze the significance of open versus closed-box prostheses in reducing blood loss after TKA.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. Observational studies and clinical trials comparing the effect of open-box versus closed-box prostheses on blood loss following TKA were included. The primary outcome was total blood loss following TKA. Secondary outcomes included average transfused units and total operation time. Continuous data were represented as mean difference (MD) and CI, while dichotomous data were presented as odds ratio (OR) and CI. RevMan software version 5.4 was used to conduct the analysis.

Results

Four studies with a total number of 687 patients were included. The pooled analysis showed a statistically significant association between closed-box and decreased total blood loss following TKA compared with open-box (MD=173.19, 95% CI=88.77-257.61, P value <0.0001). Similar findings were reported in unilateral TKA (MD=190.63, 95% CI=70.91-310.35, P value=0.002), and bilateral TKA (MD=160.79, 95% CI=61.70-359.86, P value=0.001). There was no significant difference between open and closed-box regarding average transfused units (MD=0.02, 95% CI=-0.07-0.11, P value=0.68), blood transfusion rate (OR=1.38, 95% CI=0.85-2.26, P value=0.20), length of stay (MD=0.06, 95% CI=-0.27 to 0.38, P value=0.74), and total operation time (MD=1.08, 95% CI=-4.62 to 6.79, P value=0.71).

Conclusion

Closed-box reduces the total blood loss following unilateral and bilateral TKA. More studies are warranted to explore the benefits of Closed-box in patients with high bleeding susceptibility.

Better Flexion but Unaffected Satisfaction After Treatment With Posterior Stabilized Versus Cruciate Retaining Total Knee Arthroplasty - 2-year Results of a Prospective, Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Both the cruciate-retaining (CR) and posterior-stabilized (PS) implant systems are commonplace in modern total knee arthroplasty (TKA) practice. However, there is controversy regarding functional outcomes and survivorship. The aim of the underlying study was to evaluate differences between CR and PS TKA regarding knee function, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) as well as complication rates.

METHODS

140 patients with knee osteoarthritis scheduled for an unconstrained TKA were enrolled in a prospective, randomized study. Patients received either a CR or PS implant. Range of motion and PROMs (Oxford Knee Score, Knee Society Score, European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level, University of California Los Angeles Activity scale and subjective satisfaction) were assessed prior to, 3 months, 1 and 2 years after surgery.

RESULTS

We found minor differences between treatment groups regarding demographic factors. Within the PS group duration of surgery was longer (mean PS 81.4 min vs CR 76.0 min, P = .006). We observed better flexion (median PS 120.0° vs CR 115°, P = .017) and an overall better range of motion (median PS 120.0° vs CR 115.0°, P = .008) for the PS group. PROMs did not differ between groups. At 2-year follow-up there were no revisions in either cohort. Five patients needed reoperations. Three patients needed manipulation under anesthesia, 2 in the CR and one in the PS group.

CONCLUSION

While PS TKA achieved a better flexion capability, PROMs were similar in CR and PS TKA. The CR implant design continues to be a reliable option for patients with an intact posterior cruciate ligament.

Effectiveness of Robotic Arm-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty on Transfusion Rate in Staged Bilateral Surgery

The transfusion rate in staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains high despite the application of blood management techniques. The potential of robotic arm-assisted TKA (R-TKA) in reducing the transfusion rate in staged bilateral surgery has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of R-TKA on transfusion reduction compared with conventional TKA (C-TKA) in staged bilateral surgery. This retrospective study involved two groups of patients who underwent 1-week interval staged bilateral TKA-the C-TKA group and the R-TKA group-using MAKO SmartRobotics (Stryker, Kalamazoo, MI, USA). Each group comprised 53 patients after propensity score matching and was compared in terms of nadir hemoglobin (Hb) level and transfusion rate after each stage of surgery. Both groups showed no significant differences in the propensity-matched variables of age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score, and preoperative Hb level. The R-TKA group showed a significantly higher nadir Hb level than the C-TKA group after the second TKA (p = 0.002). The transfusion rate was not significantly different between the two groups after the first TKA (p = 0.558). However, the R-TKA group showed a significantly lower transfusion rate in the TKA (p = 0.030) and overall period (p = 0.023) than the C-TKA group. Patients who undergo staged bilateral R-TKA have lower transfusion rate than those who undergo C-TKA. R-TKA may be effective in minimizing unnecessary allogeneic transfusions in staged bilateral surgery.

Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: Current Concepts Review

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Bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA) is an effective surgical treatment for bilateral knee arthritis and can be performed as a simultaneous surgery under a single anesthetic setting or as staged surgeries on separate days.

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Appropriate patient selection is important for simultaneous BTKA with several factors coming into consideration such as age, comorbidities, work status, and home support, among others.

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While simultaneous BTKA is safe when performed on appropriately selected patients, current evidence suggests that the risk of complications after simultaneous BTKA remains higher than for staged BTKA.

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When staged surgery is preferred, current evidence indicates that complication risks are minimized if the 2 knees are staged at least 3 months apart.

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Simultaneous BTKA is the economically advantageous treatment option relative to staged BTKA, primarily because of shorter total operative time and total hospital stay.

A prospective comparison of total knee arthroplasty using ultra-congruent, condylar-stabilizing, and posterior-stabilized devices implanted with kinematic alignment: better 2-year outcomes with ultra-congruent

PURPOSE

This study compared the 5-year results of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)-sacrificing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with either a post and cam posterior-stabilized (PS) device, a dished, congruent condylar-stabilizing (CS) device, or a deep-dished ultra-congruent (UC) device. The hypothesis was that the clinical and radiographic outcomes would be equivalent. CS and PS participants were part of a prospective, randomized trial, and UC participants were part of a separate prospective, non-randomized protocol that was otherwise identical. A kinematic alignment surgical technique was utilized.

METHODS

Participants were assessed preoperatively, and postoperatively at 6 weeks, 6 months, and annually for 5 years by Knee Society Score (KSS), SF-36 v2, Lower Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS), and physical and radiographic evaluation. There were 116 CS/PS participants and 69 UC participants who participated in the study.

RESULTS

Tourniquet (P = .02) and operative (P = .01) times for the CS and UC groups were significantly shorter than the PS group. KSS Function scores were better for the UC group than the CS and PS groups at 6 months (P = .04) and 1 year (P = .03), and better in the UC group vs. CS at 2 years (P = .04). The KSS Pain-only score was also better in the UC compared to PS at 6 months (P = .04). There were no significant differences for the KSS Pain/Motion scores, flexion, SF-36, and LEAS scores at any time.

CONCLUSION

These data confirm the hypothesis that there are no clinically meaningful significant differences in outcomes between the three groups at a 5-year minimum follow-up, though there is a trend toward less pain and better function at earlier visits in the UC group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Outcomes are Better With a Medial-Stabilized vs a Posterior-Stabilized Total Knee Implanted With Kinematic Alignment

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus whether a posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee device is superior to a more congruent, cruciate-substituting, medial-stabilized device (MS). This study compared the clinical outcomes of these devices. The primary hypothesis was that the clinical outcomes would be better in the MS group implanted with kinematic alignment.

METHODS

This prospective, randomized, single-center Level 1 study compared the outcomes of 99 patients who received a PS device and 101 patients who received an MS device implanted with kinematic alignment. Institutional Review Board approval and informed consent were obtained. Clinical and radiographic assessments were performed preoperatively, 6 weeks, 6 months, and annually.

RESULTS

All subjects reached the minimum follow-up of 2 years. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic characteristics, preoperative scores, or alignment (preoperative or postoperative). Tourniquet time was 7.24% longer for the PS group (40.28 min vs 37.56 min, P < .0086). There were significant differences between groups for the 1-year and 2-year Knee Society scores, Forgotten Joint Score, and ROM; in every case favoring the MS group. The FJS was 68.3 in the MS group at 2 years and 58.3 in the PS group (P = .02). The maximum flexion at 2 years was 132° in the MS group and 124° in the PS group (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The clinical outcomes of the MS group at 1 and 2 years were better. At the minimum 2-year follow-up, the results demonstrate the superiority of the medial-stabilized device in terms of multiple clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Preoperative Use of Aspirin in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Safe or Not?

OBJECTIVE

To compare the blood loss, transfusion rates and complications between the aspirin and non-aspirin group in unilateral and bilateral total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) with a nested case-control design.

METHODS

The present study retrospectively selected TKA cases from the Joint Arthroplasty Database at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2014 to December 2019 following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, and divided them into the aspirin and non-aspirin group based on the use of aspirin preoperatively. Bleeding was measured by blood loss, transfusion rate, drainage volume, hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT), while complications (cardiovascular events, venous thromboembolism events, cerebrovascular events and wound events) were compared between the groups. Student's unpaired t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used to compare the differences of continuous variables between the two groups while chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were applied in categorical variables.

RESULTS

A total of 560 patients with unilateral TKA and 285 patients with bilateral TKA were extracted. Among these, 280 patients used aspirin preoperatively. No other differences were found in demographic and surgical characteristics between the two groups except for the proportion of coronary artery diseases (P < 0.001). For primary outcomes, there was no significant higher blood loss and transfusion rate in the aspirin group, while the drainage of aspirin group was higher than the control group in bilateral TKAs (P = 0.043). The HGB and HCT of the aspirin group was significant lower in both unilateral and bilateral TKAs at POD5 (P < 0.05). For complications, there was a lower vascular related complication rate in aspirin group after unilateral TKAs (P = 0.040), but the wound event rate in aspirin group was higher than the control group (P = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative use of aspirin could prevent vascular related events during the perioperative period of TKA. However, it might also increase the risk of bleeding and wound complications.

Transfusion Trends of Knee Arthroplasty in Korea: A Nationwide Study Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service Sample Data

Knee arthroplasties are strongly associated with blood transfusion to compensate for perioperative bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate trends of transfusion associated with knee arthroplasties using nationwide data of the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort (NHIS-NSC). Using data from the nationwide claims database of the Health Insurance Review Assessment Service managed by the NHIS, 50,553 knee arthroplasties under three categories (total knee replacement arthroplasty, uni-knee replacement arthroplasty, and revision arthroplasty) from 2012 to 2018 were identified. Overall transfusion rate, transfusion count, proportion of each type of transfusion, and cost associated with each type of operation were investigated. Overall transfusion rate was 83.4% (5897/7066) in 2012, 82.7% (5793/7001) in 2013, 79.6% (5557/6978) in 2014, 75.9% (5742/7557) in 2015, 73.1% (6095/8337) in 2016, 68.2% (4187/6139) in 2017, and 64.6% (4271/6613) in 2018. The proportion of each type of transfusion was 1.8% for fresh frozen plasma, 0.5% for platelets, and 97.7% for red blood cells. The average cost of transfusion was $109.1 ($123 in 2012, $124 in 2013, $123.3 in 2014, $110.6 in 2015, $100 in 2016, $92.9 in 2017, and $90.1 in 2018). In this nationally representative study of trends in transfusion associated with knee arthroplasty, we observed significantly high rates of blood transfusion among patients undergoing knee arthroplasties. Although the overall rate of transfusion had declined, the allogeneic transfusion rate was still high from 2012 to 2018 in Korea. Thus, surgeons need to develop various patient blood management plans and minimize the use of allogeneic transfusion when performing knee arthroplasties.

Comparison of Blood Loss between Open-Box Prosthesis and Closed-Box Prosthesis after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

Objective

To compare the blood loss after procedures of primary unilateral or one‐stage bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) caused by open‐box prosthesis and closed‐box prosthesis.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Patients undergoing procedures of primary TKA between January 2017 and July 2020 in our institution were assessed for eligibility for this study. Those who were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and underwent primary unilateral or one‐stage bilateral TKA by using PFC Sigma PS150 (closed‐box prosthesis) or Vanguard (open‐box prosthesis) knee systems and had complete data of laboratory indexes on postoperative day (POD) 1, POD 3, and POD 5 were the interested population. At last 243 patients were enrolled, among which 88 patients were classified into the unilateral closed‐box group, 66 patients into the unilateral open‐box group, 47 patients into the one‐stage bilateral closed‐box group, and 42 patients into the one‐stage bilateral open‐box group. The perioperative management and operative techniques were almost the same for each patient, except the selection of prosthesis, which was decided according to surgeon's preference. The baseline information, postoperative laboratory indexes tested on POD 1, POD 3, and POD 5 including hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet, thrombin time (TT), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and international normalized ratio (INR), the primary outcome measurements including the maximum decreased value of hemoglobin and the volume of total blood loss, and the secondary outcome measurements including the transfusion rate and the average transfused red blood cell (RBC) units were well compared between the open‐box group and the closed‐box group.

Results

The baseline was comparable between groups, except higher preoperative levels of hemoglobin (134.43 g/L vs 126.51 g/L, P = 0.003) and hematocrit (39.92% vs 37.37%, P = 0.000) observed in the one‐stage bilateral open‐box group. The differences of postoperative coagulation function monitored by TT, PT, APTT, and INR were clinically irrelevant between groups. For patients receiving unilateral TKA, significantly higher value of decreased hemoglobin (26.06 g/L vs 21.05 g/L, P = 0.025) and significantly larger amount of total blood loss (920.34 mL vs 723.19 mL, P = 0.013) were observed in the open‐box group. For patients receiving one‐stage bilateral TKA, the open‐box prosthesis was observed to cause more hemoglobin drop (37.81 g/L vs 32.02 g/L, P = 0.071) and total blood loss (1327.26 mL vs 1177.42 mL, P = 0.247) compared to the closed‐box prosthesis, though the differences were not significant. The transfusion rate and the average transfused RBC units were not significantly different between the open‐box group and the closed‐box group no matte whether the patients were from the unilateral TKA group or from one‐stage bilateral TKA group.

Conclusion

The use of open‐box prosthesis caused more hemoglobin drop and total blood loss than closed‐box prosthesis after primary unilateral or one‐stage bilateral TKA, resulting in comparable transfusion rate and average transfused RBC units between groups.

Perioperative Blood Transfusions Are Associated with a Higher Incidence of Thromboembolic Events After TKA: An Analysis of 333,463 TKAs

BACKGROUND

Given the morbidity, mortality, and financial burden associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE) after TKA, orthopaedic providers continually seek to identify risk factors associated with this devastating complication. The association between perioperative transfusion status and VTE risk has not been thoroughly explored, with previous studies evaluating this relationship being limited in both generalizability and power.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

Therefore, we sought to determine whether perioperative transfusions were associated with an increased risk of (1) pulmonary embolism (PE) or (2) deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after primary TKA in a large, multi-institutional sample.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database was implemented for our analysis. The definitions of complications, such as DVT and PE, and risk adjustment validation is monitored by the central ACS NSQIP office to ensure participating hospitals are adhering to the same guidelines to log patients. Additionally, both preoperative and intraoperative/72 hour postoperative transfusion status is included for all patients. Therefore, ACS NSQIP was determined to be the most appropriate database for our analysis. All patients who underwent primary TKA between 2011 and 2018 were identified using Current Procedural Terminology code 27447. Primary TKAs designated as "non-elective" were excluded, thereby providing a cohort composed solely of patients undergoing unilateral primary elective TKA for further analysis. The final analysis included 333,463 patients undergoing TKA (mean age 67 ± 9 years, 62% female). Preoperative transfusions were received by < 0.01% (48 of 333,463) of the patients, while 4% (14,590 of 333,463) received a transfusion within the interim between the start of surgery up to 72 hours postoperatively. All missing values were imputed through multiple imputation by chained equation to avoid variable availability-based selection and the subsequent listwise deletion-associated bias in the estimate of parameters. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted using variables identified in a univariate model to calculate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for risk factors associated with symptomatic DVT and/or PE. For variables that maintained significance in the multivariable model, an additional model without confounders was used to generate fully adjusted ORs and 95% CIs. A propensity score matched comparison between recipients versus nonrecipients (1:1) of transfusion (preoperative and intraoperative/72 hours postoperative) was then conducted to evaluate the independent association between DVT/PE development and patients' transfusion status. Significance was determined at a p value < 0.05.

RESULTS

Adjusted multivariable regression analysis accounting for patient age, sex, race, BMI, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class and baseline comorbidities demonstrated the absence of an association between preoperative (OR 1.75 [95% CI 0.24 to 12.7]; p = 0.58) or intraoperative/72 hours postoperative (OR 1.12 [95% CI 0.93 to 1.35]; p = 0.23) transfusions and higher odds of developing PE. Similar findings were demonstrated after propensity score matching. Although multivariable regression demonstrated the absence of an association between preoperative transfusion and the odds of developing DVT within the 30-day postoperative period (OR 1.85 [95% CI 0.43 to 8.05]; p = 0.41), intraoperative/postoperative transfusion was associated with higher odds of DVT development (OR 3.68 [95% CI 1.14 to 1.53]; p < 0.001) relative to transfusion naïve patients. However, this significance was lost after propensity score matching.

CONCLUSION

After controlling for various potential confounding variables such as ASA Class, age, anesthesia type, and BMI, the receipt of an intra- or postoperative transfusion was found to be associated with an increased risk of DVT. Our findings should encourage orthopaedic providers to strictly adhere to blood management protocols, further tighten transfusion eligibility, and adjust surgical approach and implant type to reduce the incidence of transfusion among patients with other DVT risk factors. Additionally, our findings should encourage a multidisciplinary approach to VTE prophylaxis and prevention, as well as to blood transfusion guideline adherence, among all providers of the care team.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Daily blood loss transition after total knee arthroplasty with topical administration of tranexamic acid: Paradoxical blood loss after action of tranexamic acid

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the daily blood loss transition between groups with and without topical administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) after cruciate retaining (CR) and posterior stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

A total of 220 patients undergoing unilateral TKA were enrolled in CR and PS TKAs, which were divided into groups that received topical administration of TXA (TXA group) or without TXA (non-TXA group). Each group in both types of TKA included 55 patients. The daily transition of blood loss was compared between the TXA and the non-TXA groups in CR and PS TKAs. The blood loss was calculated through Nadler formula using the patient's blood volume and hemoglobin reduction rate.

RESULTS

Total blood loss was significantly lower in the TXA group in both CR and PS TKAs (p < 0.001, respectively). The blood loss was lower for 0-24 h and 24-48 h after TKA. However, from 48 h to 72 h, it was greater in the TXA group (253.1 vs. 34.6 mL; p < 0.001) in CR TKAs. These tendencies were similar in PS TKAs after 48 h (186.2 vs. 134.9 mL, p = 0.223).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical administration of TXA for reduction of blood loss seemed to be effective up to 48 h after both CR and PS TKAs. The blood loss after 48 h tended to be even greater in the TXA group. Future studies will be required to identify the pharmacokinetic evidence for this clinical finding.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Comparison of Postoperative Effects between Medial Pivot Prosthesis and Posterior Stabilized Prosthesis

Objective

To compare the postoperative inflammation and pain response between medial pivot (MP) and posterior stabilized (PS) prostheses among total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2019 to May 2019 at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. The study included patients diagnosed with stage III or IV Kellgren–Lawrence knee osteoarthritis (KOA) who had failed conservative treatment, had undergone no previous knee surgeries, had varus substantial deformities (11°–20° deviation), and had received their first unilateral TKA. A total of 109 patients who underwent PS prosthesis TKA and 98 patients who underwent MP prosthesis TKA were continuously enrolled. Inflammation biomarkers, such as leukocyte (white blood cells), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C‐reactive protein (CRP), together with hemoglobin (Hb), the visual analog pain score (VAS) and range of motion (ROM) were compared between the two groups. The Student t‐test was applied to analyze continuous parameters, and the χ²‐test was used for categorical parameters. The linear mixed model was used for the repeated measurement data from the follow‐up visits. Multivariate backward logistic and linear regression models were used to determine the factors potentially influencing prostheses and VAS scores.

Results

All these enrolled patients were followed up at 2, 4, 7, and 30 days after TKA. There were no significant differences between the PS group and the MP group in body mass index (BMI), gender, laterality, usage of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, and drain tube extubation time (P > 0.05). Compared with the PS group, the MP group were older (67.5 years vs 65.4 years), and had a higher mid‐vastus approach rate (67.3% vs 26.6%), a shorter tourniquet duration (68.3 ± 10.2 h vs 73.9 ± 11.2 h), a larger prosthetic pad (10.8 ± 1.2 mm vs 10.4 ± 1.2 mm), and a lower drain tube diversion volume (187.6 ± 119.3 mL vs 234.0 ± 155.7 mL). In the linear mixed model, MP prostheses had less CRP and ESR elevation and less Hb decrease than PS prostheses (P for group × time < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the changing trends between MP and PS prostheses by time for VAS scores and ROM. In the multivariate logistic regression model, MP prostheses showed significant differences compared with PS prostheses in treatment approach (odds ratio [OR] = 3.371, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.953–7.127; P < 0.001), ultrasound treatment start time (OR = 2.669, 95% CI: 1.385–5.141; P = 0.003), and tourniquet duration (OR = 0.954, 95% CI: 0.925–0.984; P = 0.003). Higher VAS scores on the second day postoperatively were related to high VAS scores preoperatively, use of opioids, high drain tube diversion, long tourniquet duration, and long drain tube extubation (P < 0.05), respectively.

Conclusion

The MP prostheses showed potential advantages compared with PS prostheses in TKA in inflammatory responses.

Chinese Survey on Enhanced Recovery after Surgery and Thromboprophylaxis Following Arthroplasty

Objective

To examine the current perspectives of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) and the clinical practice applications of important ERAS principles among Chinese orthopaedic surgeons.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study using an online survey that was completed between November and December 2018. A 16‐item online questionnaire regarding the experiences of ERAS, perceptions of methods, and durations and concerns of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis was sent to 2000 orthopaedic surgeons nationwide, and 1720 (86%) surgeons responded. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess all respondents' results and to compare differences among subgroups that were stratified according to city and hospital level, as well as their professional title.

Results

According to the results of the survey, ERAS awareness was high (65.1%) and most surgeons recognized the importance of thromboprophylaxis. However, the timing of ERAS was not consistent, with 22.8%, 31.9%, and 37.7% of surgeons choosing to initiate pharmaceutical prophylaxis within <6 h, 6–12 h, and 12–24 h after surgery, respectively. Low‐molecular‐weight heparin was mainly selected during hospitalization, and new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) were the first choice after discharge. Regarding postoperative antithrombotic therapy, particularly when combined with analgesics, the potential bleeding risk was mostly considered (80.0%)Tranexamic acid was believed to have no effect on the timing of NOAC therapy initiation (56.2%). Most of the above outcomes were influenced by the hospital level and professional title of the surgeon. Surgeons who had higher awareness on ERAS and better adhered to the guidelines were from higher‐level hospitals as well as had more advanced professional titles. City level partly might influence their practice but not impact surgeons' awareness.

Conclusions

The awareness and perception of the concept of ERAS and prophylactic antithrombotic regimens remain different among Chinese orthopaedic surgeons in different level cities and with various professional titles. Continuing medical educations (CME) on VTE prophylaxis is needed for improving the quality of health care in China.

The Effect of Prosthesis Design on Blood Loss in Simultaneous Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: Closed-Box versus Open-Box Prosthesis

Background

Various pre- and perioperative risk factors have been reported in association with blood loss in knee arthroplasty. However, the effect of the uncovered cancellous surface on blood loss in simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (SBTKA) by different prosthetic designs is not well elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the blood loss and transfusion rate between different knee prostheses in SBTKA and to identify risk factors that influence blood loss and transfusion after SBTKA.

Methods

Demographic and perioperative data of patients who underwent SBTKA using either a closed-box or an open-box femoral component of posterior-stabilized fixed-bearing (PS FB) knee system were retrospectively reviewed. The calculated blood loss (CBL) and blood transfusion rate were compared by using Student t-test and confirmed with multivariate regression analysis.

Results

There was no significant difference in preoperative parameters between 54 closed-box and 56 open-box PS FB TKAs. The CBL of the closed-box TKA group was 135.23 mL less (95% confidence interval [CI], −215.30 to −55.16; p = 0.001) than that of the open-box TKA group. However, the blood transfusion rates of the closed- and open-box TKA groups were not significantly different (24.1% and 38.5%, p = 0.11). For each additional minute of total operative time, 3.75 mL (95% CI, 1.75 to 5.76; p < 0.001) of blood loss was anticipated. For each additional mg/dL of preoperative hemoglobin, 71% (p < 0.001) reduction of blood transfusion probability was predicted.

Conclusions

The use of closed- and open-box knee prostheses resulted in a significant difference in blood loss in SBTKA. Prolonged operative time also significantly increased CBL. Therefore, strategies to control the bleeding surface and shorten operative duration may be considered if blood loss is of special concern. The preoperative hemoglobin was the only factor that affects the probability of blood transfusion in SBTKA.

Blood loss reduction: effect of different knee prosthesis designs and use of tranexamic acid-a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

In regard to blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the effect of either knee prosthesis designs or bone preparation is still unclear. While the benefit of using tranexamic acid (TXA) is well demonstrated, our study aims to determine the effect of different knee prosthesis designs uses and efficacy of blood loss reduction by different routes of TXA administration.

METHODS

The 228 patients undergone primary TKA were randomized to determine between open-box and closed-box prosthesis. Among each group, a second randomization was applied to categorize the patients into (1) no use of TXA (No-TXA), (2) intra-articular TXA use (IA-TXA) and (3) intravenous TXA use (IV-TXA). The calculated blood loss (CBL), drain volume (DV) and an average number of units of blood transfused (ANUBT) were blindly evaluated.

RESULTS

The open-box TKA had 85.60 and 63.29 ml (p = 0.02 and p < 0.01) more CBL and DV compared to closed-box TKA. The IA-TXA and IV-TXA significantly reduced CBL by 190.75 and 162.01 ml (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01) and reduced DV by 129.07 and 61.04 ml (p < 0.01 and p = 0.01), respectively, when compared to No-TXA. Patients who received IA and IV-TXA had ANUBT of 0.21 and 0.23 unit, which was significantly lower than 0.42 unit of No-TXA group (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the different prosthesis designs could significantly affect CBL and DV following TKA. However, the use of either design resulted in a comparable ANUBT. Regardless of prosthetic type, either IA- or IV-TXA could significantly reduce the CBL and ANUBT when compared to No-TXA.

Intra-Articular Tranexamic Acid Mitigates Blood Loss and Morphine Use After Total Knee Arthroplasty. A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for blood loss reduction. Given limited evidence on potential relationship between the TXA and improvement of pain control and functional outcome after TKA, this study aimed at comparing the blood loss, pain scores, morphine consumption, and knee flexion across the TXA administration routes.

METHODS

The 228 primary TKA were randomized into no TXA use (No-TXA), intra-articular TXA (15 mg/kg) use (IA-TXA), and intravenous TXA (10 mg/kg) use (IV-TXA). A multivariate regression analysis was used for comparing perioperative blood loss (PBL), drain output, average number of units of blood transfused (ANUBT), visual analogue scales (VAS) for pain, amount of morphine consumption, and knee flexion angle.

RESULTS

The IA-TXA and IV-TXA group had 193.26 (P < .01) and 160.30 mL (P < .01) less PBL than No-TXA, respectively. No-TXA significantly required higher ANUBT than IA-TXA and IV-TXA (P = .03). The IA-TXA group had lower VAS at 6 (P = .04), 12 (P = .03), and 24 hours (P = .02) postoperative when compared to No-TXA, while IV-TXA had no effect. The IA-TXA required 18.26 mg less total morphine at 48 hours than No-TXA (P = .02), whereas IV-TXA used insignificantly (5.31 mg; P = .31) less total morphine at 48 hours than No-TXA. Both TXA routes tended to improve knee flexion, but not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Both IA-TXA and IV-TXA could significantly reduce PBL and ANUBT. The IA-TXA could significantly mitigate VAS and morphine use after TKA. Hence, IA-TXA could minimize blood loss and may be considered as an adjunct to pain control following TKA.

Transfusion trends in hip arthroplasty in Korea: a nationwide study by the Korean National Health Insurance Service

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroplasties are strongly associated with blood transfusion to compensate for perioperative bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the trends in transfusion associated with hip arthroplasties, using nationwide data supplied by the National Health Insurance Service.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We used data from nationwide claims database of the Health Insurance Review Assessment Service. The data managed by the National Health Insurance Service were used to identify 161,934 hip arthroplasties under three categories, including bipolar hemiarthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty, and revision arthroplasty, from 2007 to 2015. The transfusion rates, transfusion amounts, the proportion of transfusion, and cost associated with each type of operation were investigated and stratified according to age, sex, hospital type, and region.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients receiving any allogeneic transfusion was 81.1% in 9 years. The overall proportion of transfusion was 7% fresh frozen plasma, 12% platelets, and 77% RBCs. The average count of transfusions was 4.1 in bipolar hemiarthroplasty (343,815/83,729), 4.3 in total hip arthroplasty (196,869/46,097), and 8.7 in revision arthroplasty (35,044/4,024) from 2007 to 2015.

CONCLUSION

In this nationally representative study of trends in transfusion associated with hip arthroplasty, we observed significantly high rates of blood transfusion among patients undergoing hip arthroplasties. Although the overall amount of transfusion declined, the allogeneic transfusion rate was still high from 2007 to 2015 in Korea, and higher than other countries are reporting.

Blood loss of total knee arthroplasty in osteoarthritis: an analysis of influential factors

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty is regarded as the most effective treatment for severe knee osteoarthritis. The influential factors of blood loss in total knee arthroplasty remain controversial. The study aims to explore the influential factors of blood loss in total knee arthroplasty comprehensively.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three hundred and four osteoarthritis patients undergoing unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, laboratory results, surgical protocol, and hemostatic and anticoagulation drugs were collected. Estimation of blood loss was calculated using the Gross equation. Multivariable stepwise linear regression analysis was performed to find out the influential factors.

RESULTS

Total blood loss reached the biggest volume (1346 ± 671 mL) in the post-operative third day. Hidden blood loss reached 465 ± 358 mL. Gender, tranexamic acid, prosthesis type, and drainage were proven to be positively correlated with the total blood loss (all P < 0.05). Male appeared to suffer more surgical blood loss than female. Posterior cruciate stabilizing prosthesis might lead to more surgical blood loss than posterior cruciate retaining prosthesis. Tranexamic acid could effectively reduce total blood loss while drainage might increase bleeding. Gender and anticoagulation drugs were correlated with hidden blood loss (both P < 0.05). Low molecular weight heparin resulted in less hidden blood loss than rivaroxaban.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior cruciate retaining prosthesis and topical use of tranexamic acid were preferred to reduce total blood loss. Drainage was not recommended due to the risk of increasing bleeding. Low molecular weight heparin was recommended to prevent venous thrombosis.

Blood management in total knee arthroplasty: state-of-the-art review

Total blood loss from primary total knee arthroplasty may exceed 2 L with greater blood loss during revision procedures. Blood loss and allogeneic transfusion are strongly associated with adverse outcomes from surgery including postoperative mortality, thromboembolic events and infection. Strategies to reduce blood loss and transfusion rates improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Interventions are employed preoperatively, intraoperatively and postoperatively. The strongest predictor for allogeneic blood transfusion is preoperative anaemia. Over 35% of patients are anaemic when scheduled for primary and revision knee arthroplasty, defined as haemoglobin <130 g/L for men and women, and the majority of cases are secondary to iron deficiency. Early identification and treatment of anaemia can reduce postoperative transfusions and complications. Anticoagulation must be carefully managed perioperatively to balance the risk of thromboembolic event versus the risk of haemorrhage. Intraoperatively, tranexamic acid reduces blood loss and is recommended for all knee arthroplasty surgery; however, the optimal route, dose or timing of administration remains uncertain. Cell salvage is a valuable adjunct to surgery with significant expected blood loss, such as revision knee arthroplasty. Autologous blood donation is not recommended in routine care, sealants may be beneficial in select cases but further evidence of benefit is required, and the use of a tourniquet remains at the discretion of the surgeon. Postoperatively, restrictive transfusion protocols should be followed with a transfusion threshold haemoglobin of 70 g/L, except in the presence of acute coronary syndrome. Recent studies report no allogeneic transfusions after primary knee arthroplasty surgery after employing blood conservation strategies. The current challenge is to select and integrate different blood conserving interventions to deliver an optimal patient pathway with a multidisciplinary approach.

Cruciate-Retaining vs Posterior-Stabilized Primary Total Arthroplasty. Clinical Outcome Comparison With a Minimum Follow-Up of 10 Years

BACKGROUND

Controversy continues regarding whether the posterior cruciate ligament should be retained or removed during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedure. The objective was to compare the clinical outcomes with a minimum follow-up of 10 years between patients who received contemporary cruciate-retaining or posterior-stabilized primary TKA.

METHODS

Case-control study of 268 patients who underwent cruciate-retaining TKA vs 211 to posterior-stabilized design, with the same arthroplasty system, and a minimum follow-up of 10 years. Clinical assessment was performed by Knee Society scores, Western Ontario and MacMasters Universities and Short-Form 12 questionnaires, range of motion, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Successful outcomes were found for both designs. No significant differences in functional scores, range of motion, patient-related scores, or patient satisfaction. Between the 5-year and last postoperative follow-up, there were a significant decrease of all clinical scores in both groups. In addition, complication rate and implant survival were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

The superiority of one design over the other was not found. Both designs can be used expecting long-term successful outcomes and high survival. The choice of the design depended on the status of the posterior cruciate ligament and surgeon preference.

Optimizing Intraoperative Blood Management for One-Stage Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Effective blood management strategies are a major determinant of successful outcomes after one-stage bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA). Proper patient selection with preoperative optimization and intra- and postoperative interventions can reduce transfusion risk and associated morbidity in these patients.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate intraoperative blood management modalities based on three keystone questions: (1) What is the role of the anesthesiologist?, (2) Which are the surgeon-dependent strategies?, and (3) Is there any place for pharmacologic interventions?

METHODS

We searched the established electronic literature database MEDLINE. After critical appraisal, 94 studies were deemed eligible from which to draw documented evidence.

RESULTS

A number of blood-conserving methods are currently implemented in patients undergoing one-stage BTKA. Among them, regional anesthesia, tourniquet use, and tourniquet deflation after wound closure, femoral canal sparing or femoral canal plugging, avoidance of drains, and tranexamic acid use were the intraoperative strategies with documented efficacy in blood conservation.

CONCLUSION

Combined proper intraoperative anesthesiologic, surgical, and pharmacologic interventions reduce blood loss and need for transfusion in BTKA patients. However, contemporary relevant literature is lacking evidence-based guidelines.

Impact of flexion versus extension of knee position on outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Controversy still exists regarding positioning of the knee in flexion or in extension after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) impacts treatment outcomes. In this meta-analysis, we evaluated if a postoperative knee position regime could positively affect the rehabilitation.

METHODS

A comprehensive search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of knee positioning after TKA was conducted. The outcomes of interest were blood loss and range of motion (ROM); total calculated blood loss (CBL), drainage volume, hidden blood loss (HBL), decline of hemoglobin level and requirement for blood transfusion.

RESULTS

Ten RCTs involving 962 knees were eligible for meta-analysis. Positioning the knee in flexion after TKA was significantly associated with lesser CBL (P < 0.00001), less HBL (P < 0.00001) and decreased requirement for blood transfusion (P = 0.06). On subgroup analyses, the flexion group was found to have significantly less decrease in hemoglobin level 48 h to 6 days after surgery (P = 0.003), while no significant difference was noted at 24 h after surgery (P = 0.29). Further,a superior ROM was observed in flexion group (5-7 days after surgery) (P = 0.002), while there was no significant difference at 6 weeks. No significant inter-group difference in wound drainage was observed at 24 h after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Positioning the knee in flexion in the early postoperative stage was associated with significantly lesser CBL, lesser HBL, decreased requirement for blood transfusion and better ROM at least in the early postoperative period, which may contribute to early rehabilitation. However, no significant difference was found in ROM at 6 weeks.

A protocol avoiding allogeneic transfusion in joint arthroplasties

INTRODUCTION

Arthroplasties of hip and knee are associated with blood loss, which may lead to adverse patient outcome. Performing arthroplasties in Jehovah's Witness patients who do not accept transfusion has been a matter of concern. We developed a protocol, which avoids transfusion in arthroplasties of Jehovah's Witness patients, and evaluated the feasibility and safety of the protocol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The target of preoperative hemoglobin was more than 10 g/dL. When preoperative hemoglobin was lower than 10 g/dL, 4000 U erythropoietin (3 times a week) and 100 mg iron supplement (every day) were administered until the hemoglobin reached 10 g/dL. When the preoperative hemoglobin was higher than 10 g/dL, 4000 U erythropoietin and 100 mg iron supplement were administered once, before operation. During the operation, cell saver was used. Postoperatively, erythropoietin and iron supplements were administered until the hemoglobin reached 10 g/dL, similar to the preoperative protocol. We evaluated the feasibility of our protocol, perioperative complications and hematologic changes.

RESULTS

From 2002 to 2014, 186 Witness patients visited our department. In 179 patients (96.2 %), 77 total knee arthroplasties, 69 bipolar hemiarthroplasties and 33 total hip arthroplasties were performed. The mean hemoglobin level was 12.3 g/dL preoperatively, 9.4 g/dL on postoperative day 3 and 10.3 g/dL on postoperative day 7. One patient died immediately after the arthroplasty and the remaining 178 patients survived.

CONCLUSIONS

Total joint arthroplasty could be done without transfusion using this protocol in most of our patients. The rates of infection and mortality were similar with known infection and mortality rates of arthroplasties. In patients who do not want allogeneic transfusions, our protocol is a safe alternative to perform joint arthroplasties.

Posterior cruciate-substituting total knee replacement recovers the flexion arc faster in the early postoperative period in knees with high varus deformity: a prospective randomized study

INTRODUCTION

Posterior cruciate retention (CR) and substitution (PS) has been controversial in knee replacement surgery. Satisfactory medium and long-term results have been reported in knees with and without deformity but there are limited studies about early functional comparison in terms of recovery of flexion arc, stair activity, walking ability and straight leg raising, especially, in early postoperative period in knees with deformity. Therefore, we aimed to compare the flexion arc in CR and PS knees in postoperative first year including early postoperative days prospectively.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with a deformity of >10° were included and allocated to CR and PS groups randomly. KSS and Feller-patella scores were recorded both preoperatively and postoperatively (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 12th months). Flexion and extension were measured both preoperatively and postoperatively (1st, 2nd, 3rd day and discharge day as well as 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 12th months). Visual analog scale (VAS) was recorded postoperatively at the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and discharge day and at 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 12th months. The walking ability, stair activity and straight leg raising were recorded. Patients were also examined at the last visit with minimum 7-year follow-up with KSS, Feller-patella and VAS scores. Their mean flexion arcs were measured and recorded.

RESULTS

There were 61 TKR evaluated. KSS knee and function scores at the 3rd month and KSS Knee Score at 1st year were superior in PS knees (p = 0.029, p = 0.046, p = 0.026). Flexion arc was found larger on day 1, 2, 3 and discharge day, and at 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 12th month in PS group (p = 0.048, p = 0.002, p = 0.027, p = 0.043, p = 0.014, p = 0.003, p = 0.002, p = 0.018). Walking and stair activity showed no difference but straight leg raising was better in CR knees (p = 0.02). Mean flexion arc was larger in PS knees at the last visit after 7 years (119.0° ± 7.5° in PS and 113.8° ± 8.7° in CR, p = 0.02). There was no revision required in that time interval. The other parameters were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

PS knees gained active flexion arc faster and larger. But straight leg raising activity recovered early in CR knees. Both types of prosthesis produced satisfactory outcome. PS and CR TKRs can be performed with the same performance in osteoarthritic knees even with high varus deformity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial, Level II.