What is the learning curve for the anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty?

Learning curve and initial outcomes of a novel percutaneously endoscopic-assisted total hip arthroplasty through mini bikini direct anterior approach: an observational cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Although the direct anterior approach can reduce muscle damage and ensure accurate prosthesis placement, the steep learning curve and increased risk of complications associated with DAA necessitate careful consideration. Therefore, we describe a technique for a novel percutaneously endoscopic-assisted total hip arthroplasty through mini bikini direct anterior approach (mDAA) and report the learning curve and initial outcomes.

METHODS

The first 125 THA performed by a single surgeon between September 2020 and February 2022 using the anterior approach were included, comprising the initial 41 cases of bikini DAA (bDAA) and the subsequent 84 cases of mDAA. Outcome measures included perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications. The cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM) was used to determine the learning curve of anterior approach THA for each patient's ORT. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine risk correlation.

RESULTS

A total of 125 anterior approach THA completed between 2020 and 2022 were identified. Among these, 41 were performed via bDAA and 84 via mDAA. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of age, gender distribution, BMI or follow-up time. A significant reduction in ORT was noted, from 140 min for bDAA to 130 min for mDAA. Furthermore, there was a consistent decrease in LOI, LOS, and wound-healing problems. There was no statistically significant difference between groups with respect to Harris Hip Scores and other postoperative complications. The curve inflection points of the learning curve for the bDAA and mDAA group were located in the 22nd and 68th cases, respectively. The reduction of hemoglobin indicated a predicted increase in ORT.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, ORT, LOI, LOS, and wound-healing problems decreased overall in mDAA group. After mastering the bDAA technique, approximately 27 mDAA cases are needed to acquire proficiency in this technique. Hence, mDAA is a valuable alternative for those seeking smaller incisions, resolving wound healing problems, and aiming for enhanced recovery after surgery.

The Rise of the Direct Anterior Approach: Trends, Learning Curves, and Patient Characteristics of 63,182 Primary Total Hip Arthroplasties in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI)

BACKGROUND

The use of the direct anterior approach (DAA) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has steadily increased in the Netherlands since 2007. The aim of this study was to outline how the DAA has been implemented in the Netherlands. Moreover, we investigated the learning curve of the DAA at a hospital level, and explored patient characteristics of the DAA compared with other approaches and during the learning phase after implementing the DAA.

METHODS

In this population-based cohort study, we included all primary THAs between 2007 and 2020 (n = 342,473) from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register. For hospitals implementing the DAA (n > 20), patients were categorized in 4 experience groups using the date of surgery: 1 to 50, 51 to 100, 101 to 150, or > 150. Subsequently, data from different hospitals were pooled and survival rates were calculated using Kaplan-Meier survival analyses. Adjusted revision rates were calculated using mixed Cox proportional hazard models (frailty).

RESULTS

The use of the DAA gradually rose from 0.2% in 2007 to 41% of all primary THAs in 2020. A total of 64 (56%) hospitals implemented the DAA. However, not all hospitals continued using this approach. After implementation, the 5-year survival rate for the first 50 procedures was significantly lower (96% confidence interval [CI] 95.8 to 97.2) compared to >150 procedures (98% CI 97.7 to 98.1). Multivariable Cox hazard analyses demonstrated a higher risk of revision during the first 50 procedures compared with >150 procedures (hazard ratio 1.6, CI 1.3 to 2.0).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of DAA for primary THA significantly increased. For hospitals implementing DAA, a considerable learning curve with increased revision risk was seen.

Comparison of postoperative outcomes between endoscopy assisted minimal invasive direct anterior approach and bikini direct anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

We have innovatively developed a modified bikini direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (THA), endoscopy assisted minimal invasive direct anterior approach (Endo-DAA). The study compared aesthetic appearance of the scar, postoperative radiographic and functional outcomes, and complications of Endo-DAA with Bikini-DAA.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary THA using Endo-DAA or Bikini-DAA were included. The main innovation of Endo-DAA is the use of minimally invasive 5-7 cm proximal transverse incision and distal puncture with an endoscopy assisted split-type tool to complete the acetabular preparation and prosthesis implantation. Outcomes evaluated included evaluation of scar satisfaction, hip reconstruction including inclination, anteversion and leg-length discrepancy (LLD) and patient-reported outcomes including Harris Hip Scores (HHS) and Forgotten Joint Score (FJS). Follow-up time points included preoperative, 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months.

RESULTS

Finally, 195 hips in Endo-DAA and 207 hips in Bikini DAA completed the follow-up. The Endo-DAA group was superior to the Bikini-DAA group in the cosmetic aspects of scars. the cup anteversion angle of Endo-DAA group was significantly better than that in the Bikini-DAA group. The early HHS and FJS of the Endo-DAA group were superior to those of the Bikini-group. Operation time, blood loss, incision length, length of stay and duration to start no-assistive-device walking were also significantly better in the Endo-DAA group. Furthermore, the Bikini-DAA group had a higher incidence of complication.

CONCLUSION

Compared with Bikini-incision, Endo-DAA improves patients' subjective satisfaction with scar aesthetics, accelerates rapid recovery of postoperative function, and reduces postoperative complications.

Dealing With Complications as a Young Surgeon

Rewarding and honorable, yet challenging and humbling, this is our chosen profession. No matter how robust of a residency and fellowship training we have had or how impactful our mentors have been, nothing can truly prepare us for dealing with complications as new attendings.

Collared Cementless Femoral Components Reduce the Revision Rates in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Direct Anterior Approach: An Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry Study

BACKGROUND

An increased risk of periprosthetic fracture and aseptic loosening is reported when the direct anterior approach (DAA) is used for total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially with cementless implants. We assessed the rate of revision comparing collared and collarless femoral stems when using the DAA for THA.

METHODS

We used data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry for primary THA for osteoarthritis inserted with the DAA between January 2015 and December 2022. There were 48,567 THAs that used the DAA (26,690 collarless cementless, 10,161 collared cementless, and 11,716 cemented). Cumulative percent revision was calculated for all-cause revision, revision for periprosthetic femoral fractures, and aseptic femoral stem loosening. Cox proportional hazard ratios [HRs] were used to compare the revision of collared and collarless cementless stems. We also compared collared cementless stems and cemented stems.

RESULTS

A higher rate of all-cause revision within 3 months of surgery was observed with collarless compared to collared cementless implants (HR: 1.99 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.56 to 2.54]; P < .001). Similarly, collarless cementless implants were associated with a greater rate of revision for fracture in the first 6 months (HR: 2.90 [95% CI, 1.89 to 4.45]; P < .001) and after 6 months (HR 10.04 [95% CI 1.38 to 73.21]; P = .02), as well as an increased rate of revision for aseptic loosening after 2 years (HR: 5.76 [95% CI, 1.81 to 18.28], P = .003). Collared cementless and cemented stems performed similarly.

CONCLUSION

Collared stems were associated with a reduced rate of all-cause revision for cementless THA performed via the DAA. The reduction in risk may be due to protection from periprosthetic femoral fracture and aseptic loosening.

Is There a Learning Curve for the 5-Year Implant Survival Rate of Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Direct Anterior Approach With a Traction Table? A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is attracting attention as a minimally invasive surgery, but the learning curve to master this approach is a concern, and its effect on long-term results is unknown. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to clarify how the learning curve affects the 5-year results of DAA THA with a traction table.

METHODS

Of 402 THA cases using DAA with a mobile traction table and fluoroscopy, 249 cases composed of the first 50 cases for each surgeon were assessed during a learning curve, and 153 cases were evaluated after more than 50 cases of experience.

RESULTS

The 5-year-implant survival rate was 99.2% both during and after the learning curve. The 2-year complication rate in the learning curve group was 8.9 versus 5.9%, which was not statistically significant. The 2-to-5-year complication rates also did not differ between the cohorts (0 versus 0.7%). Both groups demonstrated decreased complication rates when comparing 2-year complications to 2-to-5-year complications. Clinical scores significantly improved by 2 years and were maintained at 5 years in both groups. The cup safe-zone success rates were 96.4% during the learning curve and 98.7% after the learning curve. The stem safe-zone success rates were 97.2% during the learning curve and 96.1% after the learning curve. Surgical time was approximately 20 minutes shorter after the first 50 cases than during the learning curve (70.8 versus 90.6 minutes, P = .001). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly less after the learning curve than during the learning curve.

CONCLUSIONS

This study implies that the learning curve affects perioperative results such as surgical time and intraoperative blood loss, but has little effect on short-term results up to 2 years after surgery and no effect on mid-term results from 2 to 5 years after surgery.

No Difference in Revision Rates or Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Between Surgical Approaches for Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed for Femoral Neck Fracture: An Analysis of 5,025 Primary Total Hip Arthroplasties From the New Zealand Joint Registry

BACKGROUND

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) for femoral neck fracture (FNF) can be performed through different surgical approaches. This study compared the revision rates and patient-reported outcome measures by surgical approach.

METHODS

Data from the New Zealand Joint Registry were analyzed for patients undergoing primary THA for FNF from January 2000 to December 2021. A total of 5,025 THAs were performed for FNF; the lateral approach was used in 2,499 (49.7%), the posterior in 2,255 (44.9%), and the anterior in 271 (4.3%). The primary outcome measure was the all-cause revision rate. Secondary outcome measures included revision rates for: dislocation, aseptic femoral component loosening, periprosthetic fracture, and infection. Oxford Hip Scores (OHS) were also collected. Age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, femoral head size, dual mobility use, femoral fixation, and surgeon experience were assessed as potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

There was no difference in the revision rates between lateral and posterior (P = .156), lateral and anterior (P = .680), or posterior and anterior (P = .714) approaches. There was no difference in the reasons for revision between the lateral and posterior approaches or 6-month OHS (P = .712). There was insufficient data to compare the anterior approach.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference in the overall revision rates, reasons for revision, or OHS between the lateral and posterior surgical approaches for THA performed for FNF. Insufficient data on the anterior approach is available for an accurate comparison.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Improved patient reported outcomes with the direct anterior approach versus the posterior approach for total hip arthroplasty in the early post-operative period

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the direct anterior approach (DAA) may experience faster recovery but may also have better baseline health than those who undergo THA with the posterior approach (PA). This study aimed to compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between the DAA and PA while controlling for baseline factors.

METHODS

This is a secondary data analysis from a prospective cohort study of patients utilizing a smartphone-based care management platform following THA. The primary outcomes were HOOS JR and EQ-5D-5L through 1 year and change from baseline. Longitudinal regression models were created to control for baseline characteristics and investigate the impact of surgical approach on PROMs.

RESULTS

Of 1364 THAs evaluated, 731 (53.6%) were female, and 840 (61.6%) used the PA. Patients in the PA group were of similar age but had higher body mass index and comorbidity scores. Pre-operative HOOS JR and EQ-5D-5L were comparable, but higher post-operatively in the DAA group through 6 months (p = 0.03 and p = 0.005). At 1 year post-operatively, HOOS JR and EQ-5D-5L did not vary between groups (p = 0.48 and p = 0.56), nor did changes from baseline (p = 0.47 and p = 0.11). After controlling baseline characteristics, DAA was significantly associated with higher average HOOS JR through 6 months (p = 0.03) and EQ-5D-5L through 3 months (p  = 0.005), but not at 12 months (p = 0.89 and p = 0.56).

CONCLUSION

THA patients undergoing DAA demonstrate earlier improvements in HOOS JR and EQ-5D-5L. However, these differences may not be clinically significant and are not evident at 1-year post-operative. Patient selection and surgeon training may continue to affect outcomes by surgical approach.

Anterior Minimally Invasive Approach (AMIS) for Total Hip Arthroplasty: Analysis of the First 1000 Consecutive Patients Operated at a High Volume Center

(1) Background: Direct anterior approach (DAA) has recently acquired popularity through improvements such as the anterior minimally invasive surgical technique (AMIS). This retrospective study examines the first 1000 consecutive THAs performed utilizing the AMIS approach in a high-volume center between 2012 and 2017. (2) Methods: 1000 consecutive THAs performed at a single institution utilizing the AMIS approach were retrospectively analyzed with a minimum five-year follow-up. Full evaluation of demographic information, clinical parameters, intraoperative complications, and radiological examinations are reported. (3) Results: Overall complication rate was 9.4% (94/1000), including 8 dislocations, 57 femoral-cutaneous nerve injuries, 12 intraoperative femoral fractures, 9 infections and 8 leg length discrepancy. Implant survival rates were 98.5% at 1 year, 97.5% at 3 years, 97% at 5 years, and 95.3% at 7 years. Causes of failure included periprosthetic fractures (0.8%), implant dislocations (0.6%), septic loosening (0.5%), aseptic mobilizations (0.2%), and symptomatic limb length discrepancies (0.2%). (4) Conclusions: Controversies persist around the direct anterior approach (DAA) for THA, primarily regarding the increased complications rate during the learning curve. However, this study advocates for widespread adoption of the DAA approach. The results demonstrate acceptable complication rates and remarkable functional outcomes, affirming its viability in the broader orthopedic patient population.

Aseptic Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty Through an Anterior Approach: Survivorship and Risk Factors for Re-Revision

BACKGROUND

The utilization of anterior-based approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasing. Literature on the outcomes of revision THA (rTHA) through an anterior approach, however, is sparse. This study reports the survivorship and risk factors for re-revision in patients undergoing aseptic rTHA through an anterior approach.

METHODS

This was a single-institution, retrospective cohort analysis of patients who underwent aseptic rTHA through an anterior approach (direct anterior, anterior-based muscle sparing) from January 2017 to December 2021, regardless of the original surgical approach. Exclusion criteria were age <18 years, conversion THA, and septic revisions. Patient demographics, complications, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to measure survivorship while Cox regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for re-revision of THA.

RESULTS

We identified 251 total anterior rTHAs, of which 155 were aseptic anterior revisions. There were 111 patients (111 rTHAs; 63 anterior-based muscle sparing and 48 direct anterior) who met criteria and had a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (range, 2.1 to 6.9). There were a total of 54 (49%) anterior-based index approaches and 57 (51%) posterior index approaches. The most common indications for rTHA were femoral loosening (n = 25, 22.5%), followed by instability (n = 16, 14.4%) and wear or osteolysis (n = 16, 14.4%). At 2 years, the survivorship from reoperation and re-revision was 89% (95% confidence interval: 84 to 95) and 91% (95% confidence interval: 86 to 96), respectively. Reoperation occurred in 14 patients (12.6%) at a mean time of 7.8 months (range, 0.5 to 28.6). Re-revision occurred in 12 patients (10.8%) at a mean time of 7.3 months (range, 0.5 to 28.6). Instability was the most common reason for re-revision (4.5%). Neither index approach type, revision approach type, nor any patient-specific risk factors were identified as predictors of re-revision or reoperation in multivariable regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates an acceptable rate of re-revision when aseptic rTHA is performed through an anterior approach, with the most common reason for aseptic re-revision being instability.

Clinical outcomes following direct anterior approach during total hip arthroplasty without hip extension: a retrospective comparative study

BACKGROUND

Traditional total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the direct anterior approach (DAA) requires a hip extension. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing THA with DAA using either the no hip extension (NHE) or the traditional hip extension (THE) strategy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of demographics, clinical and radiological outcomes, and occurrence of complications was performed using data from 123 patients treated between January 2020 and November 2021. The patients were categorised into two groups: NHE (84 patients) and THE (39 patients).

RESULTS

The NHE group exhibited shorter operative time and had more male participants with higher ages. Comparable outcomes were observed in the visual analogue scale, Harris Hip, and Oxford Hip scores at the final follow-up. Furthermore, complications were observed in the NHE and THE groups, including two and one greater trochanteric fractures and three and one transfusions, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to the THE, employing the NHE strategy during THA with DAA in elderly and young female patients resulted in comparable clinical outcomes with several advantages, such as favourable surgical time. The NHE method also exhibited good safety and effectiveness. Therefore, the NHE strategy may be a favourable option for elderly and young female patients.

Early Periprosthetic Femur Fractures After Primary Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty: High Risk of Periprosthetic Joint Infection and Subsequent Reoperation

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic femur fracture (PFF) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a leading cause of early reoperation. The objective of this study was to compare rates of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and reoperation following PFFs occurring early postoperatively to those that occurred late.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 173 consecutive surgically managed PFFs following primary THA. Cases were categorized as "early" if they occurred within 90 days of THA (n = 117) or "late" if they occurred following the initial 90 days (n = 56). Mean age at time of PFF was 68 years (range, 26 to 96) and 60% were women. Mean body mass index was 29 (range, 16 to 52). Mean follow-up was 2 years (range, 0 to 13). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis estimated cumulative incidences of PJI and reoperation.

RESULTS

Early PFFs had higher 2-year cumulative incidence of PJI (11% versus 0%, P < .001) and reoperation (24% versus 13%, P = .110). Following early PFF, 27 patients required reoperation (ie, 13 for PJI, 5 for instability, 2 for re-fracture, 2 for painful hardware, 2 for non-union, 1 for adverse local tissue reaction, 1 for aseptic loosening, and 1 for leg-length discrepancy). Following late PFF, 5 patients required reoperation (ie, 3 for instability, 1 for re-fracture, and 1 for non-union).

CONCLUSIONS

There are greater incidences of PJIs and overall reoperations following early PFFs compared to late PFFs after THA. In addition to focusing efforts on prevention of early PFFs, surgeons should consider antiseptic interventions to mitigate the increased risk of PJI after treatment of early PFF.

Mid-term results of cemented hip arthroplasties through the direct anterior approach in the lateral decubitus position: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Reports show a high complication rate when starting with the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) in a supine position for hip arthroplasty. The DAA with the patient in lateral decubitus position may avoid this problem because it supposedly provides better visibility, especially on the femoral side. However, this approach did show a rather high complication rate during the adoption of the approach at 1 year follow up in our previous report. We were interested what the overall 7 year survival estimate would be and whether improvement could be seen with growing experience.

METHODS

A cohort of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty right from the start of applying the DAA in lateral decubitus position was analysed.

RESULTS

In total 175 hip prostheses (162 patients) were evaluated. The 7-year survival estimate was 95.1%, 95 CI: 91.8-98.4%. In 6 of 8 revisions there was aseptic loosening of the stem. By dividing the cohort into 3 consecutive groups in time we did not see a significantly improving revision rate.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, the adoption of the direct anterior approach in lateral decubitus position caused a relatively low 7-year survival estimate without an apparent decrease with growing experience, however given the low number of cases further research is needed to investigate the long-term risk of adopting a new approach.

The Direct Superior Approach in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Evolution of the surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has led to the development of the minimally invasive direct superior approach (DSA). It is hypothesized that the DSA reduces postoperative pain and hospital length of stay (LOS). We aimed to provide an overview of current evidence on clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes with respect to risk of revision, complications, pain scores, physical function, operative time, LOS, blood loss, radiological outcomes, and learning curve.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar, reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses literature search extension guidelines, was conducted to identify studies evaluating clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of the DSA. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The review protocol was prospectively registered in the International Prospective Registry of Systematic Reviews.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies were included, generally of moderate quality. Qualitative synthesis evidenced accurate implant positioning, short LOS, and a short learning curve. Conflicting findings were reported for postoperative complications compared with conventional approaches. Better functional outcomes were seen in the early postoperative period than the posterolateral approach (PLA). Outcomes such as blood loss and operative time exhibited conflicting results and considerable heterogeneity.

CONCLUSION

Based on moderate-certainty evidence, it is uncertain if the DSA provides short-term advantages over conventional approaches such as PLA. There is limited evidence on long-term outcomes post-THA using the DSA. Further studies and ongoing registry monitoring is crucial for continuous evaluation of its long-term outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Effectiveness of virtual reality compared to video training on acetabular cup and femoral stem implantation accuracy in total hip arthroplasty among medical students: a randomised controlled trial

PURPOSE

Virtual reality (VR) training effectiveness in improving hip arthroplasty surgical skills requires further evaluation. We hypothesised VR training could improve accuracy and the time taken by medical students compared to a control group with only video teaching.

METHODS

This single-centre randomized controlled clinical trial collected data from March to June 2023. Surgically naïve volunteer undergraduate medical students performed three sessions on a VR training platform, either cup (VR-Cup=Control-Stem) or stem (VR-Stem=Control-Cup) implantation. The primary outcome was the mean difference between predefined cup inclination (60°) and stem anteversion (20°) compared to the actual implanted values in sawbones between VR and control groups. Secondary outcomes were task completion time and mistake number between the groups.

RESULTS

A total of 101 students participated (VR-Cup 47, VR-Stem 54). Groups did not significantly differ concerning age (p = 0.879), gender (p = 0.408), study year (p = 0.938), previous VR use (p = 0.269) and baseline medical and procedural knowledge. The VR-Cup implanted the cup closer to the intended target (p < 0.001) and faster than the Control-Cup group (p = 0.113). The VR-Stem implanted the stem closer to the intended target (p = 0.008) but not faster than the Control-Cup group (p = 0.661). Stem retroversion was commoner in the Control-Stem than in the VR-Stem group (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

VR training resulted in higher rates of accurate procedure completion, reduced time and fewer errors compared to video teaching. VR training is an effective method for improving skill acquisition in THA.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05807828.

The LANCET robotic system can improve surgical efficiency in total hip arthroplasty: A prospective randomized, multicenter, parallel-controlled clinical trial

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy and safety of the LANCET robotic system, a robot arm assisted operation system for total hip arthroplasty via a multicenter clinical randomized controlled trial.

Methods

A total of 116 patients were randomized into two groups: LANCET robotic arm assisted THA group (N = 58) and the conventional THA group (N = 58). General information about the patients was collected preoperatively. Operational time and bleeding were recorded during the surgery. The position of the acetabular prosthesis was evaluated by radiographs one week after surgery and compared with preoperative planning. Harris score, hip mobility, prosthesis position and angle and complications were compared between the two groups at three months postoperatively.

Results

None of the 111 patients who ultimately completed the 3-month follow-up experienced adverse events such as hip dislocation and infection during follow-up. In the RAA group, 52 (92.9 %) patients were located in the Lewinnek safe zone and 49 (87.5 %) patients were located in the Callanan safe zone. In the control group were 47 (85.5 %) and 44 (80.0 %) patients, respectively. In the RAA group, 53 (94.6 %) patients had a postoperative acetabular inclination angle and 51 (91.1 %) patients had an acetabular version angle within a deviation of 5° from the preoperative plan. These numbers were significantly higher than those of the control group, which consisted of 42 (76.4 %) and 34 (61.8 %) patients respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups of subjects in terms of general condition, intraoperative bleeding, hip mobility, and adverse complications.

Conclusion

The results of this prospective randomized, multicenter, parallel-controlled clinical study demonstrated that the LANCET robotic system leads conventional THA surgery in accuracy of acetabular cup placement and does not differ from conventional THA surgery in terms of postoperative hip functional recovery and complications.

The translational potential of this article

In the past, the success rate of total hip arthroplasty (THA) relied heavily on the surgeon's experience. As a result, junior doctors needed extensive training to become proficient in this technique. However, the introduction of surgical robots has significantly improved this situation. By utilizing robotic assistance, both junior and senior doctors can perform THA quickly and efficiently. This advancement is crucial for the widespread adoption of THA, as patients can now receive surgical treatment in local facilities instead of overwhelming larger hospitals and straining medical resources. Moreover, the development of surgical robots with fully independent intellectual property rights holds immense value in overcoming the limitations of high-end medical equipment. This aligns with the objectives outlined in the 14th Five Year Plan for National Science and Technology Strategy.

Learning curve of Persona Partial Knee (PPK) arthroplasty: a clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) procedures are considered to be more technically demanding than conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA), requiring a longer learning curve and more expert surgical skills. Despite some clear advantages of UKA over TKA (such as lesser blood loss, greater bone stock, greater knee performances, etc.), UKA evidenced a greater rate of revision.

OBJECT

This study investigated the learning curve of Persona Partial Knee (PPK) arthroplasty for primary medial UKA performed by a single, non-designer surgeon. PPK is a fixed-bearing, compartment-specific implant. The primary outcome of interest for this study was to evaluate the learning curve of the surgical duration. The secondary outcome of interest was to evaluate the learning curve of radiological implant positioning.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary medial UKA using PPK (Zimmer-Biomet, Warsaw IN, USA) were prospectively enrolled for the study. All surgeries were performed by a single, non-designer surgeon experienced in knee and hip arthroplasty. The primary outcome of interest was to evaluate the surgical duration. The secondary outcome of interest was to evaluate the implant positioning. The learning curve was estimated using an appropriate nonlinear polynomial regression model with a lower Akaike Information Criterion (AIC).

RESULTS

One hundred twenty five patients were enrolled in the study. 59% of them (74 of 125 patients) were women. The patients' mean age at the time of surgery was 70.1 ± 9.5 years and their mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2. Curve stabilisation of the surgical time was at the 94th patient, of the tibial angle at the 47th patient, of the tibial slope at the 54th patient, of the anterior protrusion at the 29th patient, and of the posterior protrusion at the 51st patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The learning curve for component positioning was achieved in approximately 50 cases. The curve of the surgical time achieved a plateau at 94 Persona Partial Knee. Additionally, the factors directly correlated with earlier stabilization of the learning curve in terms of component positioning were: male gender, younger age, right side, and larger components.

First 100 total hip arthroplasties performed by a young surgeon using the direct anterior approach: learning curve and complications

INTRODUCTION

Most of the reported discussions about the learning curve for the direct anterior approach (DAA) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been by experienced surgeons. The study's aim was to describe the learning curve, short-term outcomes, complications, and adaptations to the DAA used in the first 100 THA cases experienced by a young surgeon who had received DAA training for trauma surgeries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study summarizes the first 100 consecutive cases experienced by a young surgeon who performed the unilateral DAA for THA between 2019 and 2021. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis was performed to evaluate the learning curve on the basis of operative time and overall complications. The demographics data, short-term outcomes, and complications of the first 50 and second 50 cases were compared.

RESULTS

The CUSUM curve declined after 49 and 55 cases, measured by operative time and overall complications, respectively. The median operative time (104 vs. 80 min) and intraoperative fluoroscopic time (38 vs. 12 s) increased significantly in the first 50 cases compared with the times in the second 50 cases. Complications tended to occur in the first 50 cases (12% vs. 6%), and the overall rate was 9%. Major complications all occurred in the first 50 cases, with a rate of 4%. Only one case, which involved a complicated periprosthetic fracture around the stem that extended to the tip, required the intervention of a senior surgeon.

CONCLUSIONS

Even after receiving training on the DAA for trauma surgeries, the young surgeon experienced a steep learning curve and more complications in the first 50 cases. The DAA for THA is a technically demanding procedure and may require guidance from an experienced surgeon to manage unexpected complications.

Does Body Mass Index (BMI) Affect the Reconstruction of Biomechanical Parameters in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Replacement (THR) through the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA)?

OBJECTIVE

Direct anterior approach total hip replacement (DAA-THR) is gaining increased interest due to its tissue-sparing nature and rapid recovery. Obesity has been shown to be a significant parameter influencing cup positioning in DAA-THR. It was the intention of this retrospective study to examine how obesity would influence the restoration of native hip biomechanical parameters during DAA-THR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 74 patients from a high-volume university orthopedic center after unilateral DAA-THA were included. Patients were retrospectively allocated to a study group (BMI > 30 kg/m2) and a control group (BMI < 30 kg/m2). Furthermore, propensity-score matching for baseline parameters was performed, leaving 30 patients in each group. Biomechanical parameters of the hip (i.e., femoral offset (FO), abductor lever arm (ABL), acetabular offset (AO), center of rotation (COR), stem alignment (SA), body weight lever arm (BWL), cup inclination (CI), and leg length discrepancy (LLD) were evaluated on standardized plain radiographs, and parameters were compared to the native contralateral hip.

RESULTS

Mean BMI in the study group was 35.07 ± 5.13 kg/m2 and 25.43 ± 2.64 kg/m2 in the control group. There was a significant decrease of the ABL only in the study cohort (p = 0.01). CI and SA did not differ between both cohorts. FO was slightly increased compared to the native hip in both groups. There was a marginally higher but non-significant proportion of improper FO restoration in the study group (19 vs. 16 patients, p = 0.60).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity, as quantified by BMI, only has a limited impact on the adequate reconstruction of native biomechanical parameters of the hip during DAA-THR. ABL was the only parameter to be significantly decreased in the overweight patients after DAA-THR. Therefore, special care should be taken on proper acetabular reaming and consequent seating of the cup in the obese patient to avoid excessive lateral positioning.

Collaborative Team Training in Virtual Reality is Superior to Individual Learning For Performing Complex Open Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether multiplayer immersive Virtual Reality (iVR) training was superior to single-player training for the acquisition of both technical and nontechnical skills in learning complex surgery.

BACKGROUND

Superior teamwork in the operating room (OR) is associated with improved technical performance and clinical outcomes. iVR can successfully train OR staff individually; however, iVR team training has yet to be investigated.

METHODS

Forty participants were randomized to individual or team iVR training. Individually trained participants practiced alongside virtual avatar counterparts, whereas teams trained live in pairs. Both groups underwent 5 iVR training sessions over 6 weeks. Subsequently, they completed a real-life assessment in which they performed anterior approach total hip arthroplasty surgery on a high-fidelity model with real equipment in a simulated OR. Teams performed together, and individually trained participants were randomly paired up. Videos were marked by 2 blinded assessors recording the 'Non-Operative Technical Skills for Surgeons, Oxford NOn-TECHnical Skills II and Scrub Practitioners' List of Intraoperative Non-Technical Skills' scores. Secondary outcomes were procedure duration and the number of technical errors.

RESULTS

Teams outperformed individually trained participants for nontechnical skills in the real-world assessment (Non-Operative Technical Skills for Surgeons: 13.1±1.5 vs 10.6±1.6, P = 0.002, Non-TECHnical Skills II score: 51.7 ± 5.5 vs 42.3 ± 5.6, P = 0.001 and Scrub Practitioners' List of Intraoperative Non-Technical Skills: 10 ± 1.2 vs 7.9 ± 1.6, P = 0.004). They completed the assessment 33% faster (28.2 minutes ± 5.5 vs 41.8 ± 8.9, P < 0.001), and made fewer than half the number of technical errors (10.4 ± 6.1 vs 22.6 ± 5.4, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiplayer training leads to faster surgery with fewer technical errors and the development of superior nontechnical skills.

Improved surgical exposure and early clinical outcomes using a femoral-release-first technique in direct anterior approach during total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed using the direct anterior approach (DAA) has demonstrated favourable early-, mid-, and long-term outcomes. However, the traditional femoral release technique remains technically demanding and is associated with challenges and a heightened risk of complications. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of patients who underwent THA with DAA performed using either the femoral-release-first (FRF) or the traditional approach (TA) strategy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of demographics, clinical and radiological outcomes, and occurrence of complications was performed using data from 106 patients between 2018 and 2019. The patients were categorised into two groups: FRF (44 hips) and TA (69 hips).

RESULTS

The FRF group showed a reduced operative time, haemoglobin (Hb) drop, postoperative hospital stay, and more optimal acetabular cup anteversion angles. Furthermore, during the first 2 months postoperatively, the FRF group demonstrated superior visual analogue scale, Harris Hip, and Oxford Hip scores. In the TA group, two hips experienced greater trochanter fractures, and one experienced delayed incision healing.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the TA, employing the FRF strategy during THA with DAA resulted in improved outcomes within the first 2 months postoperatively and comparable functional recovery beyond this period. The FRF method exhibited advantages such as favourable acetabular exposure and alignment and a reduced risk of complications. Therefore, the FRF strategy may be a favourable option.

Direct Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty Is Associated With Reduced 1-Year Mortality and Surgical Complications After Femoral Neck Fracture

BACKGROUND

In some studies, the direct anterior approach (DAA) for elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with decreased dislocation and greater functional gains compared to the posterior approach (PA), as well as higher functional outcomes compared to the direct lateral approach (LA) at 2 weeks postoperatively. Given the paucity of literature on femoral neck fracture (FNF), we aspired to determine the association between the surgical approach used in THA and outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing THA for FNF at 9 institutions from 2010 to 2019. Patients who had high-energy injury mechanisms, were nonambulatory prior to injury, had concomitant femoral head or acetabular fractures, or did not reach minimum 1-year follow-up were excluded. The study included 622 THAs, of which 348 (56%) were performed through a DAA, 197 (32%) through a PA, and 77 (12%) through an LA. Postoperative complications and mortalities at 90 days and 1 year were compared between groups. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed for each outcome of interest.

RESULTS

The DAA was associated with a decreased risk of 90-day dislocation (odds ratio [OR] 0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.10 to 0.62; P = .01), mechanical revision (OR 0.12; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.56; P = .01), and mortality (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.91; P = .03) compared to the PA. The DAA was also associated with decreased risk of dislocation (OR 0.32; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.74; P = .01), mechanical revision (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.65; P = .01), and mortality at 1 year compared to PA (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.85; P = .02).

CONCLUSION

The DAA for THA after FNF is associated with higher in-hospital medical complications but lower risks of postoperative reoperation and mortality. Postdischarge care may impact this association and needs to be addressed in future studies. The DAA should be used among surgeons experienced with the approach for FNF to minimize complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective cohort, Level III.

Selective THA-approach use amongst junior surgeons improves safety of introducing the anterior approach: a prospective, multi-surgeon, comparative, study

BACKGROUND

Learning curves associated with independent practice and anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (AA-THA) has been associated with inferior outcome. This study compared outcome of junior, fellowship-trained, surgeons who perform THA through both anterior and posterior (PA) approach, with senior surgeons who perform either AA or PA, to determine whether: 1. Fellowship training and selective practice allows for safe introduction of AA into practice; and 2. Whether selective approach-use influences outcome.

METHODS

This is a prospective, consecutive study comparing the first 800 THAs of two junior, dual-approach, surgeons (AA/PA: 455/345), with 400 THAs cases of two senior, single-approach, surgeons (AA/PA: 200/200), between 2018 and 2020. Most patients were female (54.4%), mean age was 65 years-old (range 19-96) and mean BMI was 29 kg/m2 (range 16-66). Outcome included radiologic measurements (inclination/anteversion and leg-length), complication- and revision rates, and patient-reported outcomes including Oxford Hip Score (OHS).

RESULTS

At 3.1 years (range 2.0-6.8) follow-up, there were 43 complications (3.6%), including 27 re-operations (2.3%); with no difference between junior and senior surgeons for AA-THA (Junior: 8/455 vs. Senior: 3/200; p = 0.355) or PA-THA (Junior: 11/345 vs. Senior: 5/200; p = 0.400). Amongst juniors, there was no difference in complications (AA:8/455 vs. PA:11/345; p = 0.140) and in ΔOHS (AA:20.5 ± 7.7 vs. PA:20.5 ± 8.0; p = 0.581) between approaches.

CONCLUSION

Contemporary training and selective approach-use minimizes the learning curve, allowing junior staff to have equivalent outcome to established, senior surgeons in both AA and PA. We would advocate for selective approach use amongst junior arthroplasty surgeons when introducing the AA into independent practice.

Intramuscular innervation of the tensor fasciae latae: Application to total hip arthroplasty

The aims of this study were to clarify the extra- and intramuscular branching patterns of the tensor fasciae latae (TFL) with reference to surface landmarks on the thigh and to thus suggest a safe approach for total hip arthroplasty. Sixteen fixed and four fresh cadavers were dissected and subjected to the modified Sihler's staining method to reveal the extra- and intramuscular innervation patterns, and the findings were matched with surface landmarks. The landmarks were measured from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) to the patella and divided into 20 parts along the total length. The average vertical length of the TFL was 15.92 ± 1.61 cm, which was 38.79 ± 2.73% when converted to a percentage. The entry point of the superior gluteal nerve (SGN) was an average of 6.87 ± 1.26 cm (16.71 ± 2.55%) from the ASIS. In all cases, the SGN entered parts 3-5 (10.1%-25%). As the intramuscular nerve branches traveled distally, they had a tendency to innervate more deeply and inferiorly. In all cases, the main SGN branches were intramuscularly distributed in parts 4 and 5 (15.1%-25%). Most tiny SGN branches were found inferiorly in parts 6 and 7 (25.1%-35%). In three of 10 cases, very tiny SGN branches were observed in part 8 (35.1%-38.79%). We did not observe SGN branches in parts 1-3 (0%-15%). When information on the extra- and intramuscular nerve distributions was combined, we found that the nerves were concentrated in parts 3-5 (10.1%-25%). We propose that damage to the SGN can be prevented if parts 3-5 (10.1%-25%) are avoided during surgical treatment, particularly during the approach and incision.

Results of the transition from posterolateral to anterior minimally invasive approach for total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The anterior minimally invasive (AMI) approach reduces soft tissue damage, risk of dislocation and enhances recovery, but it is associated with certain complications. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) through posterolateral (PL) and AMI approaches performed by the same surgeon, in order to determine the learning curve associated with this new approach.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent THA via PL and AMI approach between 2017 and 2022, with a minimum follow-up of 1 year. Hip fracture and oncologic patients were excluded. Demographic variables, functional scores and perioperative complications were assessed. A bivariate analysis was performed to identify differences between groups.

RESULTS

Data of 124 AMI and 120 PL patients were analyzed. Demographic characteristics among groups were homogeneous. Functional outcomes at 3 months were superior for AMI (Oxford: 43 vs. 38; p < 0.05), no dislocations were identified (0% vs. 4.2%; p < 0.05) and no differences in the transfusion rate were found (6.5% AMI vs. 6.7% PL; p = 0.996). Infection rate was 4% for AMI and 3.4% for PL (p = 0.572). Surgical time was shorter for the PL approach, but the median surgical time of the last 25 AMI cases was shorter.

CONCLUSIONS

The AMI approach is an excellent alternative for patients requiring THA. Although surgical time and perioperative bleeding were greater during the learning curve, this approach offers improved functional outcomes and a lower dislocation rate, without significant differences in transfusion and infection outcomes, demonstrating that responsible innovation and safe implementation of new techniques is possible.

In primary total hip arthroplasty, the direct anterior approach leads to higher levels of creatine kinase and lower levels of C-reactive protein compared to the posterolateral approach: a propensity score matching analysis of short-term follow-up data

BACKGROUND

This retrospective study compares the invasiveness of the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the posterolateral approach (PLA) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) by assessing three widely used inflammation-related serum markers in the first ten post-operative days.

METHODS

The database of our institution was mined for primary THAs conducted by the DAA or the PLA from February 2020 to June 2022. Demographics and creatine kinase (CK), C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cells were compared. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) analysis (1:1 ratio) was conducted based on multiple variables.

RESULTS

PSM analysis yielded 44 pairs of DAA and PLA patients. CK was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the DAA than in the PLA group on postoperative day (POD) 2, 5 and 10. The POD2, POD5 and POD10 CK/preoperative CK ratio was 12.9, 5.0 and 0.8 in DAA and 8.8, 3.3 and 0.6 in PLA (p = 0.017, p = 0.012 and p = 0.025, respectively). The POD2, POD5 and POD10 CRP/preoperative CRP ratio was 95.1, 65.6 and 22.8 in PLA and 34.7, 23.3 and 8.9 in DAA (p < 0.001, p = 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

PSM analysis of early postoperative CK and CRP values demonstrated that the DAA should be considered as a less stressful approach, not as a muscle-sparing or a minimally invasive THA approach.

Surgical approach had minor association with femoral stem migration in total hip arthroplasty: radiostereometric analysis of 61 patients after 5-year follow-up

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is usually performed using 1 of 3 surgical approaches: direct lateral (DLA), posterior (PA), or anterior (AA). AA is different from DLA and PA owing to limited intraoperative visibility of the femoral canal. This could affect stem positioning and therefore migration. We aimed to perform an exploratory radiostereometric analysis (RSA) study with 3 groups for surgical approach assessing stem migration up to 5 years postoperatively.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

61 patients with unilateral osteoarthritis of the hip were included. 21 patients were allocated to the DLA, 20 to the PA, and 20 to the AA group. All patients received an uncemented, collarless, double-tapered, fully hydroxyapatite-coated Profemur Gladiator stem. Migration was measured with model-based RSA. Baseline RSA was on day 1 postoperatively. The follow-ups were at day 8, at 5 weeks, and at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after surgery. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze maximum total point motion (MTPM) migrations.

RESULTS

Group mean differences in MTPM were 0.4 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] -1.5 to 2.4) for DLA vs. PA, 1.1 mm (CI -1.0 to 3.3) for AA vs. DLA, and 1.6 mm (CI -0.8 to 3.9) for AA vs. PA, when adjusted for sex and age as covariates. 2 stems in the AA group had excessive early migration. For all stems the migrations occurred mainly within 5-week follow-up and then stabilized.

CONCLUSION

At 5-year follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences in stem migration associated with the 3 surgical approaches used in this study.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Learning Curves Based on Approach for New Fellowship-trained Surgeons

INTRODUCTION

There is concern that the direct anterior (DA) approach is associated with a steeper learning curve than the posterolateral (PL) approach in total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to investigate if the learning curve is similar for newly trained arthroplasty fellowship-trained surgeons using the DA and PL approaches.

METHODS

The first 100 primary THA cases of six DA and PL fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeons were identified and divided into 50 case cohorts. Demographics, indications for surgery, and 90-day Hip Society standardized complications were collected. Variables were analyzed using independent sample t tests, chi-square tests, or Fisher exact tests.

RESULTS

In total, there were 600 patients, and no notable differences were observed in revision surgeries, surgical complications, and total complications between the DA and PL groups. Both groups had lower revision surgery rates, surgical complications, and total complications during their second 50 cases. Higher revision surgeries, and surgical and total complication rates were observed among all surgeons during the first 50 cases.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

No differences were observed in the learning curve when comparing the DA and PL approach. With proper training, early-career surgeons can safely perform THA with similar complication rates regardless of the approach.

Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with Bilateral Upper-Limb Amelia: A Report of 2 Cases

CASE

We report two patients, a 43-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, with bilateral absence of the upper extremity and severe hip osteoarthritis. The involved hip was the dominant extremity for both patients. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) was performed using a posterior approach with dual-mobility implants. Both patients report satisfactory outcomes including the ability to perform the significant range of motion required for daily activities such as toe-to-head motion.

CONCLUSION

In patients with extreme range of motion requirements such as those affected with bilateral upper-limb amelia, a posterior THA with a dual-mobility implant may be safely and successfully performed to treat disabling hip osteoarthritis.

The role of 3-dimensional preoperative planning for primary total hip arthroplasty based on artificial intelligence technology to different surgeons: A retrospective cohort study

Preoperative planning with computed tomography (CT)-based 3-dimensiona (3D) templating has been achieved precise placement of hip components. This study investigated the role of the software (3-dimensional preoperative planning for primary total hip arthroplasty [THA] based on artificial intelligence technology, artificial intelligence hip [AIHIP]) for surgeons with different experience levels in primary THA. In this retrospective cohort study, we included patients, who had undergone THA with the help of the AIHIP, and matched to patients, who had undergone THA without the help of the AIHIP, by age and the doctor who operated on them. The subjects were divided into 4 groups, senior surgeon (Chief of Surgery) with AIHIP group, senior surgeon without AIHIP group, junior surgeon (Associate Chief of Surgery) with AIHIP group and junior surgeon without AIHIP group. The general data, imaging index, clinical outcomes and accuracy of stem size prediction and cup size prediction were retrospectively documented for all patients. There was a significant difference in discrepancy in leg length (P = .010), neck-shaft angle (P = .025) and femoral offset (P = .031) between the healthy side and the affected side, operation duration (P < .001), decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) per 24 hours (P = .046), intraoperative radiation exposure frequency (P < .050) and postoperative complications (overall P = .035) among the patients in junior surgeon group. No significant differences were found between senior surgeon groups with respect to discrepancy in leg length (P = .793), neck-shaft angle (P = .088)and femoral offset (P = .946) between the healthy side and the affected side, operation duration (P = .085), decrease in Hb per 24 hours (P = .952), intraoperative radiation exposure frequency (P = .094) and postoperative complications (overall P = .378). The stem sizes of 95% were accurately estimated to be within 1 stem size, and 97% of the cup size estimates were accurate to within 1 cup size in senior surgeon group with AIHIP. A total of 87% stem sizes were accurately estimated to be within 1 stem size, and 85% cup sizes were accurate to within 1 cup size in junior surgeon group with AIHIP. In conclusion, our study suggests that an AI-based preoperative 3D planning system for THA is a valuable adjunctive tool for junior doctor and should routinely be performed preoperatively.

Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Implant Revision Risk to 5 Years From a State-wide Arthroplasty Registry in Michigan

Background

Information on the revision risk of implants is useful for improving the quality of care for elective hip and knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to report on the revision risk of implants using a state-wide registry in the United States.

Methods

The Michigan Arthroplasty Registry Collaborative Quality Initiative systematically collects data on elective primary and revision hip and knee arthroplasty cases in Michigan. It contained data on 139,970 hip and 245,499 knee arthroplasty cases from February 15, 2012, to December 31, 2021. Kaplan-Meier estimates of revision risk were computed using time to first revision as the dependent variable, and the results were computed and expressed as the cumulative percent revision (CPR). CPR estimates were computed for all implants having at least 500 cases in the Michigan Arthroplasty Registry Collaborative Quality Initiative dataset.

Results

At 5-years postoperatively, elective primary conventional total hip arthroplasty implant stem/cup combinations had CPR values from 0.95% (0.39%-2.30%, 95% confidence intervals [CI]) to 5.77% (4.22%-7.85%, 95% CI), and elective primary total knee arthroplasty CPR ranged from 1.10% (0.64%-1.89%, 95% CI) to 12.52% (8.37%-18.50%, 95% CI). Unicondylar knee arthroplasty CPR at 5-years went from 4.23% (3.54%-5.06%, 95% CI) to 7.13% (6.20%-8.20%, 95% CI).

Conclusions

The wide variation in CPR points to the need for surgeons to choose implants wisely to improve quality of care.

The risk of hospital readmission, revision, and intra- and postoperative complications between direct anterior versus posterior approaches in primary total hip arthroplasty: a stratified meta-analysis and a probability based cost projection

INTRODUCTION

This study presents stratified meta-analysis and projected cost per case analysis of direct anterior approach (DAA) versus posterior approach (PA) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) to determine the best surgical approach and guarantee hip joint longevity.

METHODS

Several online databases were searched for clinical trials comparing DAA and PA in primary THA. The stratified analysis was conducted to test for confounding and biases across the different types of included trials. The average cost and probability were used to determine projected added costs of medical and surgical management for complications.

RESULTS

30 clinical trials included 11,562 patients who underwent THA. Almost 50% of these patients performed DAA. As compared to PA, both non-stratified and stratified analyses demonstrated that DAA has a significant higher incidence of the overall intra- and postoperative complications (non-stratified, OR 1.64; p = 0.003) (stratified, OR 4.12; p = 0.005), nerve injury (non-stratified, OR 22.0; p < 0.00001) (stratified, OR 0.28; p < 0.00001), higher rate of revision surgery (non-stratified; OR 1.54; p = 0.01) (stratified, OR 7.37; p = 0.006), and higher incidence of surgical wound complications (non-stratified; OR 1.67; p = 0.002) as compared to PA following primary THA. In addition, DAA demonstrated higher trends of incidence (non-statistically significant) of femur fracture (Non-stratified, OR 1.32, p = 0.10) and thrombo-embolic complications (Retrospective studies, OR 1.39, p = 0.69). However, PA demonstrated higher trends of incidence (non-statistically significant) of hip joint dislocation, as compared to DAA. (Stratified RCTs, OR 0.63, p = 0.65]. Collectively, this amounts a $421,068.68 surplus in DAA complication costs.

CONCLUSIONS

PA may provide a more lucrative, safer approach to those undergoing THA given its comparable postoperative outcomes, reduced complication rates, and lower overall cost relative to DAA.

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

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

Revision risk by using the direct superior approach (DSA) for total hip arthroplasty compared with postero-lateral approach: early nationwide results from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The direct superior approach (DSA) is a modification of the classic posterolateral approach (PLA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA), in which the iliotibial band and short external rotators are spared. The revision rate of the DSA has not been investigated previously using arthroplasty registry data. We examined the reasons and risk of revision of the DSA, compared with the direct anterior approach (DAA) and PLA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this population-based cohort study we included 175,543 primary THAs performed between 2014 and 2020 (PLA, n = 117,576; DAA, n = 56,626; DSA, n = 1,341). Competing risk survival analysis and multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses, adjusted for potential confounders, were performed.

RESULTS

After 3 years, crude revision rates due to any reason were 2.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-3.3) for DSA, and 2.9% (CI 2.8-3.0) for PLA. Crude dislocation revision rates were 0.3% (CI 0.1-0.8) for DSA, versus 1.0% (CI 0.9-1.0) for PLA. Dislocation revision rate for DSA did not differ from DAA (0.3% [CI 0.2-0.3]). Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated no overall difference in revision rates for the DSA (HR 0.6 [CI 0.4-1.09) compared with the PLA. Lower risk of revision due to dislocation was found in patients operated on through the DSA (HR 0.3 [0.1-0.9]) compared with the PLA.

CONCLUSION

Early nationwide results suggest that the DSA for total hip arthroplasty seems to show a tendency towards a lower risk of revision for dislocation but no overall reduced revision risk compared with the PLA.

Penalty for Switching Implants? Assessing the Learning Curve With a Collarless, Tapered Wedge Cementless Femoral Component

Background

Surgeon learning curve associated with a tapered wedge femoral implant as measured by early femoral component subsidence and 90-day risk of reoperation was evaluated.

Methods

The first 451 patients undergoing primary, cementless total hip arthroplasty by a single, fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeon with a tapered wedge stem design were retrospectively reviewed. Early radiographic femoral component subsidence during the first 6 weeks postoperatively and 90-day reoperations was recorded.

Results

When stratified by approach, there was no association between date of surgery and femoral component subsidence in the posterior approach (P-value for linear trend over time = 0.44). In the direct anterior approach, there was a significant association between date of surgery and early femoral component subsidence (P-value for linear trend over time = 0.01). For both approaches, there was an increase in implanted stem size relative to templated stem size over time (P < .01 and P = .03, respectively). There was no association between the date of surgery and risk of 90-day reoperation (P = .45).

Conclusions

In a single surgeon's initial use of a tapered cementless wedge stem, early femoral component subsidence was not impacted by the surgeon's learning curve when the posterior approach was utilized. Although subsidence was associated with date of surgery in the direct anterior cohort, this was not associated with increased risk of 90-day reoperation. Should a surgeon adopt a new tapered-wedge stem, these findings suggest that the stem is forgiving both in relation to subsidence and 90-day reoperation risk when appropriate surgical technique is utilized.

Direct anterior versus direct lateral hip approach in total hip arthroplasty with the same perioperative protocols one year post fellowship training

BACKGROUND

Variable results have been reported regarding the clinical outcomes in Total hip arthroplasty (THA) based on the surgical approach. The aim of this study is to compare the clinical outcomes between Direct anterior (DA) and direct lateral (DL) approaches in THA when performed immediately after fellowship training.

METHODS

During the 1st year of practice, all consecutive patients who underwent THA via DA and DL hip approaches were retrospectively investigated. Patients'demographics, diagnosis, American society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score, route of anesthesia, length of hospital stay (LOS), leg length discrepancy (LLD), radiographic parameters, operative time, number of opioids refills postoperatively, and complications were collected and compared between the two groups. The short form of Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome score, Joint Replacement (HOOS, JR) was prospectively collected pre and postoperatively. The minimum follow-up period was 2 years.

RESULTS

Forty patients in DA group and 38 patients in DL group were included. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of demographics, diagnosis, ASA scores, route of anesthesia at the time of THA, postoperative radiographic parameters, LOS, LLD, opioid refills and HOOS scores (p > 0.05). Patients in the DA group had shorter operative time (83 ± 17 min) when compared to the DL group (93 ± 24 min) (p = 0.03). No major complications were found except for one early deep infection patient in DL group.

CONCLUSION

Both DA and DL approaches resulted in satisfactory outcomes in THA when performed by a fellowship trained surgeon.

Posterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty Utilizing a Monoblock Dual-Mobility Construct Without Posterior Hip Precautions: A Series of 580 Hips with One Dislocation

BACKGROUND

Instability remains a devastating complication following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Here we describe a mini-posterior approach with a monoblock dual-mobility implant without "traditional posterior hip precautions" yielding excellent results.

METHODS

There were 580 consecutive hips in 575 patients who underwent THA utilizing a monoblock dual-mobility implant and a mini-posterior approach. With this technique, the acetabular component positioning does not rely on tradition intra-operative radiographic abduction and anteversion goals, but rather uses patient-specific anatomic landmarks (anterior acetabular rim and, when visible, the transverse acetabular ligament) to set cup position; stability is assessed with a significant, dynamic intra-operative test of range of motion. Patients' mean age was 64 years (range, 21 to 94) and 53.7% were women.

RESULTS

Mean abduction was 48.4° (range, 29° to 68°) and mean anteversion was 24.7° (range, -1 to 51°). Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scores improved in every measured domain from preoperative to final postoperative visit. There were seven (1.2%) patients who required reoperation, with mean time to reoperation of 1.3 months (range, one to 176 days). Only one patient (0.2%) who had a pre-operative history of spinal cord injury and Charcot arthropathy dislocated.

CONCLUSION

A posterior approach hip surgeon may want to consider using a monoblock dual-mobility construct and avoidance of traditional posterior hip precautions to achieve early hip stability with an extremely low dislocation rate and high patient satisfaction scores.

Hand Surgeons Are Tackling Tougher Scaphoids: A Study of ABOS Candidate Data

BACKGROUND

This study will evaluate whether those who have completed a hand fellowship treat a disproportionate number of scaphoid fractures based on recent American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) data. We hypothesize that surgeons who have completed a fellowship in hand surgery will address most surgically treated scaphoid fractures, particularly those with fracture nonunions or requiring graft.

METHODS

We queried the ABOS database for case log information submitted for part II of the ABOS examination. This search included all cases with Current Procedural Terminology codes for procedures related to scaphoid fixation. Demographic information, case volume, type of case, and complication rate were compared for hand fellowship-trained surgeons and those who had completed other fellowships as well as non-fellowship-trained surgeons.

RESULTS

During the study period, 1686 surgeons reported treating 4244 scaphoid fractures. Of these surgeons, 1180 had completed a hand surgery fellowship. Hand fellowship-trained surgeons were shown to have operatively treated more scaphoid fractures both in total volume and on a per-surgeon basis. Hand fellowship-trained surgeons were also found to have performed a significantly higher proportion of difficult cases, which were those listed as being a malunion/nonunion or those incorporating a pedicle graft. There was no difference in the complication rate between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Among those orthopedic surgeons reporting case information for part II of the ABOS certification examination, statistically significant differences exist in case volume and case difficulty among surgeons with different areas of fellowship training. Complication rates increase with patient age and examination year.

Evaluation of Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Surgical Approaches for Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Each approach for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has a long learning curve, so a surgeon's choice to change their preferred approach needs to be guided by clear justifications. However, current evidence does not suggest that any of the THA approaches are more beneficial than others, and the choice of approach is mainly based on the knowledge and experience of the surgeon and individual patient characteristics.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and safety associated with different surgical approaches for THA.

DATA SOURCES

A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from inception to March 26, 2022; reference lists of eligible trials; and related reviews.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing different surgical approaches, including the 2-incision approach, direct anterior approach (DAA), direct lateral approach (DLA), minimally invasive direct lateral approach (MIS-DLA), minimally invasive anterolateral approach (MIS-ALA), posterior approach (PA), minimally invasive posterior approach (MIS-PA), and supercapsular percutaneously assisted total hip arthroplasty (SuperPath), for primary THA.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, 2 reviewers independently extracted data on study participants, interventions, and outcomes as well as assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework. A frequentist framework was used to inform a series of random-effects network meta-analyses.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The outcomes were hip score (range, 0-100, with higher scores indicating better overall hip condition), pain score (range, 0-100, with higher scores indicating more pain), hospitalization time, operation time, quality of life score, blood loss, cup abduction angle, and cup anteversion angle.

RESULTS

Of 2130 retrieved studies, 63 RCTs including 4859 participants (median [IQR] age, 64.0 [60.3-66.5] years; median [IQR] percentage male, 46.74% [38.64%-54.74%]) were eligible for analysis. Eight surgical approaches were evaluated. For hip score, DAA (mean difference [MD], 4.04; 95% CI, 1.92 to 6.16; moderate certainty), MIS-ALA (MD, 3.00; 95% CI, 0.43 to 5.59; moderate certainty), MIS-DLA (MD, 3.37; 95% CI, 1.05 to 5.68; moderate certainty), MIS-PA (MD, 4.46; 95% CI, 1.60 to 7.31; moderate certainty), PA (MD, 4.37; 95% CI, 1.87 to 6.88; high certainty), and SuperPath (MD, 5.00; 95% CI, 0.58 to 9.42; high certainty) were associated with greater improvement in hip score compared with DLA. DLA was associated with lower decrease in pain score than SuperPath (MD, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.13 to 2.20; high certainty) and MIS-DLA (MD, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.04 to 1.76; moderate certainty). PA was associated with shorter operation times compared with 2-incision (MD, -23.85 minutes; 95% CI, -36.60 to -11.10 minutes; high certainty), DAA (MD, -13.94 minutes; 95% CI, -18.79 to -9.08 minutes; moderate certainty), DLA (MD, -10.50 minutes; 95% CI, -16.07 to -4.94 minutes; high certainty), MIS-ALA (MD, -6.76 minutes; 95% CI, -12.86 to -0.65 minutes; moderate certainty), and SuperPath (MD, -13.91 minutes; 95% CI, -21.87 to -5.95 minutes; moderate certainty). The incidence of 6 types of complications did not differ significantly between the approaches.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, moderate to high certainty evidence indicated that compared with PA, all surgical approaches except DLA were associated with similar improvements of hip score but longer operation time. DLA was associated with smaller improvement of hip score. The safety of the different approaches did not show significant differences. These findings will help health professionals and patients with better clinical decision-making and also provide references for policy makers.

Taper-wedge stem suitable for anterior approach total hip arthroplasty: Adequate biomechanical reconstruction parameters and excellent clinical outcome at mid-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a less invasive and muscle-sparing approach that seems to improve early function and patient satisfaction. Several studies, however, have reported high complication and revision rates due to the technical difficulties related to the femoral preparation.

AIM

To evaluate the usefulness and safety of a new stem equipped with a morphometric design and a size-specific medial curvature in DAA for THA.

METHODS

This retrospective study was based on 130 patients that underwent mini-invasive DAA procedures for THA using the Accolade II stem. A total of 144 procedures were included in the assessment, which was based on postoperative complications, survival rates, functional parameters, and patient related outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall complications were recorded in 6 procedures (4.2%). There were no complications related to the stem implantation and no intraoperative fractures. Only one patient was revised for deep infection. On radiographs, biomechanical hip reconstruction was satisfactory and no stem showed any subsidence greater than 2 mm. Full osseointegration based on Engh scores was seen in all of the implanted stems. Median Harris hip score at final follow-up was 99 points (range 44-100 points), which resulted excellent in 91.3% of patients. The median values of the osteaorthritis outcome score ranged from 87.5 to 95.

CONCLUSION

The mid-term positive outcomes and low complication rate in our consecutive series of patients support the safety and suitability of this new stem design in DAA for THA.

Accuracy of acetabular cup placement during anterolateral supine total hip arthroplasty using intraoperative fluoroscopy: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

In our institution, total hip arthroplasty (THA) is performed using the anterolateral supine (ALS) approach with intraoperative fluoroscopy. This study aimed to investigate and review the accuracy of acetabular cup placement in ALS-THA using intraoperative fluoroscopy.

METHODS

A total of 142 patients with 154 joints (mean age 64.3 years, 30 males and 112 females) underwent ALS-THA with intraoperative fluoroscopy at the same institution. The target angle of the cup position was set at 40° for radiographic inclination (RI) and 5°-25° for radiographic anteversion (RA) based on the functional pelvic plane according to the pelvic motion during individual postural changes. The cup position angle was measured using postoperative computed tomography, and the error in the target angle was investigated.

RESULTS

The target angle of RI was 40°, and the postoperative RI was 39.3° ± 4.3°. The target angle of the RA was 17° ± 2.6°, and the postoperative RA was 20.6° ± 3.7°. The absolute values of the error from the target angle were 3.6° ± 2.5° for RI and 4.2° ± 3.3° for RA. For RI and RA, 67.5% (104/154 joints) were within ± 5° of the target and 96.1% (148/154 joints) were within ± 10°.

CONCLUSIONS

The accuracy of cup positioning in ALS-THA using intraoperative fluoroscopy was good and appeared comparable to that of various navigation systems.

Procedure Duration, Time Under Anesthesia, and Readmissions in Direct Anterior and Posterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Operative time is related to complications in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study compared operative time in direct anterior (DA) and posterior approach THA and whether differences were related to increased hospital readmissions within 90 days of discharge.

METHODS

Prospectively documented data on 3,152 consecutively performed THAs by 16 surgeons at a large Midwestern United States academic healthcare system were retrospectively reviewed. All surgeons were beyond their learning curve. Cases characterized by factors extending operative time were excluded. A total of 1,235 analysis cases were performed with the DA approach and 1,608 with the posterior approach. DA patients had lower mean body mass index (P < .001), were more likely to be classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status 1 or 2 (P < .001), and more likely to have surgery in an ambulatory setting (P < .001).

RESULTS

Time under anesthesia was significantly longer for DA procedures by 19 to 27 minutes in hospital and ambulatory settings, respectively (P < .001). Increasing body mass index had a greater impact on anesthesia time for DA patients (P = .020). There were no differences in nontraumatic readmissions within 90 days of surgery based on surgical approach (P ≥ .480); however, significantly more DA patients classified as ASA-PS 3 or 4 were readmitted compared to those classified as ASA-PS 1 or 2 (P < .001), a difference not observed for posterior approach patients.

CONCLUSION

Anesthesia time is a modifiable risk factor for patient safety and an important factor in healthcare resource utilization. Consideration of ways to reduce DA operative times is encouraged.

Transitioning from the Posterior Approach to the Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty

Purpose

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the direct anterior approach (DAA) is known to have a learning curve. The purpose of this study was to review cases where surgery was performed by an arthroplasty surgeon transitioning from the posterior approach (PA) to the DAA. We hypothesized similar complication rates and improvements in surgical duration over time.

Materials and Methods

A review of 2,452 consecutive primary THAs was conducted. Surgical duration, length of stay (LOS), surgical complications, decrease in postoperative day (POD) 1 hemoglobin, transfusion rates, POD 0 and POD 1 pain scores, incision length, leg length discrepancy (LLD), and radiographic cup position were recorded.

Results

No differences in surgical duration were observed after the first 50 DAA cases. A shorter LOS was observed for the DAA, and statistical difference was appreciated after the first 100 DAA cases. There were no differences in periprosthetic fractures. A higher rate of infections and hip dislocations were observed with the PA. The PA showed an association with higher transfusion rates without significant difference in POD 1 decrease in hemoglobin over the first 100 DAA cases. Similar POD 0 and POD 1 pain scores with a smaller incision were observed for the first 100 DAA cases. The DAA cohort showed less variation in cup inclination, version, and LLD.

Conclusion

DAA is safe and non-inferior in terms of reduced LOS, smaller incision, and less variation in cup position. Fifty DAA cases was noted to be the learning curve required before no differences in duration between approaches were observed.

Minimum 10-Year Follow-Up of Total Hip Arthroplasty With a Collarless Triple-Tapered Polished Cemented Stem With Line-to-Line Implantation Using a Direct Anterior Approach

BACKGROUND

The Trilliance stem (B. Braun-Aesculap, Tuttlingen, Germany), a novel collarless triple-tapered polished stem, was introduced in 2009. The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiological results of the Trilliance stem with line-to-line implantation in primary total hip arthroplasty using a direct anterior approach.

METHODS

A consecutive retrospective series of 130 patients (151 hips) who underwent total hip arthroplasty between February 2009 and August 2011 were evaluated for a minimum of 10 years. Of these, 87.4% had a diagnosis of secondary osteoarthritis based on developmental hip dysplasia. Clinical and radiological results, complications were evaluated and survival analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 10.7 years (range, 10.0-12.1). Thirteen hips (13 patients, 6.8%) were lost to follow-up. Adequate cementation (Barrack grade A) was achieved in 136 hips (93.8%) 1 week post-operatively. Nearly all (144 hips, 99.3%) had been inserted within the range of 3°. No significant differences were identified between high- (≥30 procedures/year) and low- (<30 procedures/year) volume surgeons. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with revision of the femoral component for aseptic loosening, revision of the femoral component for any reason and revision of either component for any reason as the end points, cumulative survivorship was 100.0%, 97.6% (95% confidence interval (CI) 95.4-100.0) and 96.5% (95% CI 93.8-99.3) at 10 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The Trilliance stem with line-to-line implantation using a direct anterior approach has an excellent clinical and radiological outcome at a minimum of 10 years' follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective cohort study.

Cement Mantle Quality and Stem Alignment in Cemented Collarless Polished Tapered Stems Implanted via the Direct Anterior and Direct Lateral Approaches: A Single Institution Experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the stem alignment and the quality of cement mantle of collarless polished tapered cemented stems inserted through the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the direct lateral approach (DLA).

METHODS

A comparative retrospective study of 232 hybrid total hip arthroplasties using a cemented collarless polished tapered stem through either the DAA (n = 147) or DLA (n = 85) was performed. Radiographic evaluation included stem alignment, cement mantle quality, and cement mantle thickness.

RESULTS

On anteroposterior radiographs, stems implanted through the DLA were more likely to be in neutral alignment, than those implanted through the DAA (83.5%[n = 71] versus 71.4% [n = 105]; P = <.001). No difference between approaches was noted for stem alignment on lateral radiographs or cement mantle quality. Multivariate analysis revealed factors associated with suboptimal cement mantle and included Dorr type B or C femur as well as male gender. A mean cement mantle thickness ≥2mm was achieved in all Gruen zones for both approaches.

CONCLUSION

In our series, the DAA was associated with a higher incidence of coronal plane stem malalignment compared to the DLA when using cemented tapered polished femoral components for total hip arthroplasty. No difference in lateral stem alignment or cement mantle quality was found.

Total hip replacement performed via a direct anterior approach: A comparison of the lateral and supine position

Background

The direct anterior approach (DA) is a recognised approach for performing a total hip replacement (THR). Proponents cite improved recovery times, lower pain levels and improved patient satisfaction in the early post operative period. The procedure can be performed in the supine or lateral position. We wanted to compare the direct anterior approach in lateral decubitus (LD) position and supine (SU) position.

Methods

Single site, non-randomised, multiple surgeon retrospective cohort study between 2014 and 2021 to compare outcomes, complications and implant position for patients undergoing DAA THR in the SU or LD position.

Results

A total of 39 patients (22 lateral/17 supine) were identified. Patients had an average follow up of 45 months (17-81). 95% of the cohort were ASA 1 or 2. The majority of cases were uncemented (95%). A greater implant selection was used in the lateral group and the supine group used mainly implants associated with the supine table. No significant differences were found in post operative oxford hip scores, haemoglobin, length of stay, operative time, cup inclination, offset or post operative leg length. There were no recorded intra-operative complications in the LA group and two in the SU group - one calcar fracture and one canal perforation. No patient in either group has undergone a revision procedure.

Conclusion

Both the supine and lateral position have resulted in satisfactory patient and radiological outcomes. We identified a higher rate of intra-operative fracture in the supine group which is comparable with existing literature. Given the similar outcomes between both groups we would suggest that surgeons wishing to consider the DAA may consider performing this in the lateral position as this will be more familiar to them, they will be able to use their existing implants and do not need a specialised operating table.

Bikini Incision vs Longitudinal Incision for Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Background

Direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (DAA THA) traditionally involves a longitudinal incision, but a bikini incision may improve postoperative scar cosmesis and patient satisfaction while reducing wound complications. This systematic review compares the clinical outcomes and surgical complications in patients undergoing DAA THA via a bikini vs longitudinal incision.

Methods

A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses-compliant search of PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE was performed to identify original articles comparing patients undergoing DAA THA via a bikini vs longitudinal incision published from 2010 to 2021. Patient demographic data and postoperative outcomes (scar appearance, patient satisfaction, functional hip scores, and complications) were collected and qualitatively evaluated.

Results

A total of 8 double-armed studies were included, allowing comparison of clinical outcomes of a bikini incision (n = 952) vs a longitudinal incision (n = 1361). Three out of 4 (75.0%) studies comparing postoperative scar appearance and patient satisfaction reported improvements following bikini incision, while 1 study reported comparable results between incision types. Postoperative hip function was similar between incision types in 3 of 4 (75.0%) studies comparing this outcome. Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury was the most frequently reported complication following anterior THA, but rates were low overall, and most injuries resolved.

Conclusions

Bikini incision appears to be a safe alternative to the traditional longitudinal incision, with similar functional hip outcomes and potentially improved cosmesis and patient satisfaction while reducing wound complications. Current evidence suggests an elevated risk of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury with bikini incision, but this needs to be confirmed in further prospective randomized studies.

The learning curve of the direct anterior approach is 100 cases: an analysis based on 15,875 total hip arthroplasties in the Dutch Arthroplasty Register

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In the last decade, the direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become more popular in the Netherlands. Therefore, we investigated the learning curve and survival rate of the DAA in primary THA, using data from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register (LROI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified all patients who received a primary THA using the DAA in several high-volume centers in the Netherlands between 2007 and 2019 (n = 15,903). Procedures were ordered per surgeon, using date of operation. Using the procedure number, operations were divided into 6 groups based on the number of previous procedures per surgeon (first 25, 26-50, 51-100, 101-150, 151-200, > 200). Data from different surgeons in different hospitals was pooled together. Revision rates were calculated using a multilevel time-to-event analysis.

RESULTS

Patients operated on in group 1-25 (hazard ratio [HR] 1.6; 95% CI 1.1-2.4) and 26-50 (HR 1.6; CI 1.1-2.5) had a higher risk for revision compared with patients operated on in group > 200 THAs. Between 50 and 100 procedures the revision risk was increased (HR 1.3; CI 0.9-1.9), albeit not statistically significant. From 100 procedures onwards the HR for revision was respectively 1.0 (CI 0.6-1.6) and 0.8 (CI 0.5-1.4) for patients in operation groups 101-150 and 151-200. Main reasons for revision were loosening of the stem (29%), periprosthetic infection (19%), and dislocation (16%).

INTERPRETATION

We found a 64% increased risk of revision for patients undergoing THA using the DAA for the first 50 cases per surgeon. Between 50 and 100 cases, this risk was 30% increased, but not statistically significant. From 100 cases onwards, a steady state had been reached in revision rate. The learning curve for DAA therefore is around 100 cases.

A Consistent Anatomic Landmark for Identifying the Lateral Femoral Circumflex Artery in a Direct Anterior Hip Approach

A direct anterior approach (DAA) is a technique practiced by arthroplasty surgeons that can be technically challenging, most notably for inexperienced surgeons. The lateral femoral circumflex artery (LFCA) is a branch of the femoral artery that crosses the surgical field during DAA and is an important landmark for superficial surgical dissection. If the vessel is not identified, significant bleeding may occur, and visualization may be impaired. This study aimed to develop a reliable method to identify and ligate the LFCA with minimal bleeding. First, a retrospective review was performed on a series of patients who underwent primary DAA total hip arthroplasty. Epidemiologic and intraoperative radiologic information was collected to determine the 2-dimensional location of the LFCA as it coursed through the surgical interval. Second, a series of computed tomography (CT) angiograms were compared to validate the intraoperative anatomic findings. In this study, 108 patients were evaluated fluoroscopically and 100 CT angiograms were obtained, for 208 total patients. The distance of the LFCA from the lesser trochanter with standard fluoroscopy (LT/TD) was 0.600 vs 0.438 on CT angiogram. Mean offset from midline (offset/femur diameter) was 0.166 lateral to midline vs 0.36 medial to midline. Median value of offset was 0 vs 0.411-representing a position on the anatomic axis of the femur. This study confirmed that the LFCA is found approximately one-third to two-thirds of the way between the lesser and greater trochanters along the anatomic axis of the femur for most patients. Surgeons who are new to DAA can use the LFCA as a reliable landmark to confirm the correct interval. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(5):262-268.].