Solid organ transplant patients experience high rates of infection and other complications after total knee arthroplasty

Postoperative Care and Outcomes in Solid-Organ Transplant Patients Undergoing Lower Extremity Fracture Treatment

OBJECTIVES

To determine the postoperative outcomes in solid-organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing operative treatment of lower extremity fractures.

METHODS

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

SETTING

Academic Level 1 trauma center.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

Patients who underwent SOT and operative treatment of lower extremity fracture from 2013 to 2021 were identified, excluding pathologic fractures.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

Postoperative complications, length of stay, time to death, 90-day and 1-year readmission rates, readmission causes, discharge location, and immunosuppressive regiments.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients with an average age of 67 years (range 29-88) were included. The mortality rate was 37.7%. The average follow-up was 15.2 months (range of 2 weeks-10 years). The majority of patients (32.8%) had received a liver transplant, and femoral neck fractures constituted the largest fracture group. The average length of stay was 10 days, with the shortest being 1 day and the longest being 126 days (SD 18). The majority of patients (57.3%) were not discharged home. Only 2 suffered from a postoperative complication requiring another procedure: hardware removal and liner exchange for periprosthetic joint infection, respectively. There was a 27.9% 90-day readmission rate with 2 deaths within that period with the most common being altered mental status (29.4%), genitourinary infections (17.6%), repeat falls (11.8%), and low hemoglobin requiring transfusion (11.8%). The longest average time to death analyzed by transplant type was found among lung transplant patients (1076 days, 62.5% mortality), followed by liver transplant patients (949 days, 35.0% mortality), and then kidney transplant patients (834 days, 38.9% mortality). The shortest time to death was 71 days from index procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Family members of SOT patients undergoing operative treatment of lower extremity fractures should be made aware of the high risk for 90-day readmission postoperatively (27.9%) and overall mortality (12.5%). Providers should be aware of the need for multidisciplinary involvement for inpatient care, monitoring postoperative complications, and facilitating discharge planning.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasty in patients with a history of solid organ transplant: A review

Solid organ transplants (SOT) have evolved into life-saving interventions for end-stage diseases affecting vital organs. Advances in transplantation techniques, donor selection, and immunosuppressive therapies have enhanced outcomes, leading to a growing demand for SOT. Patients with a solid organ transplant are living long enough to develop the same pathologies which are indicated for joint replacement surgery in the general population. SOT patients who undergo a total hip, knee, or shoulder arthroplasty do similarly in the context of clinical outcomes and implant survival when compared to the general population. These immunosuppressed patients tend to have higher complication rates in the short-term following surgery. Prudent management of these patients in the short-term may be necessary, but patients can expect to do well otherwise.

Timing of Renal Transplant Prior to Total Knee Arthroplasty Impacts 90-Day Postoperative Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Renal transplant (RT) patients are at increased risk for complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA); however, it is unknown if the time from RT to TKA influences such risks. This study evaluated RT patients undergoing primary TKA at various time intervals after transplant. We hypothesized that increased time between RT and TKA would decrease the risk of complications after TKA.

METHODS

There were 499 RT patients in a national database undergoing subsequent primary TKA from 2010 to 2020. Patients were stratified by intervals of less than 1 year, between 1 and 2 years, and more than 2 years from RT to TKA. Medical complications up to 90 days, readmissions, and 2-year revisions were compared via univariable and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent TKA less than 1 year after RT were associated with higher 90-day medical complications when compared to those who underwent TKA 1 to 2 years after RT (odds ratio [OR] 0.4, confidence interval [CI] 0.2 to 0.8, P = .01) and more than 2 years (OR 0.3, CI 0.2 to 0.7, P < .01) after RT. Acute kidney injury and blood transfusion were the most common complications. The TKAs performed 2 years after RT were less likely to have 90-day readmissions when compared to TKAs performed less than 1 year after RT (OR 0.4, CI: 0.2 to 0.9, P < .01). However, time from RT to TKA did not increase the risk of revision at 2 years (P > .30).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing TKA within 1 year of RT have an increased risk of 90-day postoperative medical complications and readmissions, but the time interval from RT does not appear to affect revision risk. These findings suggest waiting 1 year after RT before proceeding with TKA may be advantageous.

The Influence of Solid Organ Transplant on Inpatient Complications, Length of Stay, and Hospital Costs in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Patients

INTRODUCTION

With innovations in transplant medicine and longer life expectancies in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, the incidence of shoulder arthroplasty is predictably rising in this population. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has become increasingly popular due to advances in prosthetic design with expanded indications. While previous studies have examined shoulder arthroplasty in SOT patients, information specifically related to RSA patients is largely unexplored. We aim to analyze the demographics and characteristics of SOT patients who have undergone RSA while assessing inpatient complication rates, length of stay (LOS), and hospital costs in these patients compared to a matched cohort of non-transplant patients.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Database was utilized to identify all patients undergoing RSA from 2016 to 2019. We generated propensity-matched groups based on pre-operative variables (diabetes, tobacco use, sex, age, and obesity) to compare complications, LOS, and inpatient costs between the SOT and control groups. T-tests and Chi-squared tests were performed where appropriate and odds ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

We identified 59925 patients who underwent RSA. Among those, 59769 patients (99.7%) did not have a SOT and 156 patients (0.26%) had a history of SOT. Patients in the SOT group were younger than the control group (67.0 versus 71.4 years, p<0.001). The SOT group were more likely males compared to the control group (53.8% versus 39.3%, p<0.001). Following 1:1 matching, there were 156 patients in each group. The SOT group had a higher risk of acute renal failure (ARF) compared to the control group (OR 9.41, 95% CI (2.13-41.49), p<0.001). The LOS (p<0.001) and inpatient costs (p<0.001) were higher in the SOT group.

CONCLUSION

For RSA, SOT patients are younger and more likely male compared to those without SOT. Inpatient medical and surgical complications are similar between SOT and non-SOT patients, except SOT patients have a higher risk of ARF. SOT patients tend to have longer LOS and higher inpatient costs than non-SOT patients.

Risk Factors in Patients Who Had Prior Renal or Liver Transplant Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

More solid organ transplant (SOT) patients are undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study identifies risk factors for complications, implant survivorship, and mortality in TKA patients who had prior SOT.

METHODS

We identified 176 TKAs in patients who had prior SOT. Of these, 77 had a prior renal (RT), 77 had a prior liver (LT) transplant, and 22 had multiple prior transplants (MT). Median survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier. Univariate analyses were assessed with mixed-effects logistic regressions for complications and Cox-regressions for mortality. Median follow-up was 63 months (range, 24 to 109).

RESULTS

At least one acute medical complication occurred in 25, 13, and 27% of cases with prior RT, LT, and MT, respectively (P = .12). None of the variables were significantly associated with acute medical complications. At least one surgical complication occurred in 14, 13 and 14% of cases with prior RT, LT, and MT, respectively (P = 1). Vitamin D supplementation (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.38, P < .03) was associated with lower risk of surgical complications. Reoperation and revision rates were 5 and 3%, respectively. Older age at time of transplantation and greater level of serum creatinine at time of TKA were associated with lower risk (OR = 0.96, P = .01), and higher risk of reoperation (OR = 4.9, P = .01), respectively. Coronary artery disease was associated with higher mortality (Hazard Ratio = 2.35, P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin D was associated with lower surgical complications, whereas a younger age at time of transplantation increased the risk of reoperation. Additionally, SOT patients with coronary artery disease demonstrated higher mortality after TKA.

Renal Transplant Patients Have a Lower Risk of Complications and Mortalities After Total Knee Arthroplasty Compared to Those on Hemodialysis: A Large National Database Study

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in end-stage renal disease is associated with complications. Controversy exists whether elective TKA should be performed while patients are on hemodialysis (HD) or following renal transplant (RT). This study compares TKA outcomes in HD versus RT patients.

METHODS

A national database was retrospectively reviewed using International Classification of Diseases codes to identify HD and RT patients who underwent primary TKA from 2010 to 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, and hospital factors were compared using Wald and Chi-squared tests. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortalities while secondary outcomes included quality outcomes and medical/surgical complications. Multivariate regressions were used to determine independent associations. Significance was determined with a 2-tailed P value of .05. There were 13,611 patients who underwent TKA (61.1 HD and 38.9% RT). Patients who had RT were younger, had fewer comorbidities, and more likely to have private insurance.

RESULTS

The RT patients had a lower rate of mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.23, P < .01)), complications (OR 0.63, P < .01), cardiopulmonary complications (OR 0.44, P = .02), sepsis (OR 0.22, P < .001), and blood transfusion (OR 0.35, P < .001) during the index hospitalization. This cohort was also found to have decreased length of stay (-2.0 days, P < .001), non-home discharge (OR 0.57, P < .001), and hospital cost (-$5,300, P < .001). Patients who had RT had a lower rate of readmission (OR 0.54, P < .001), periprosthetic joint infection (OR 0.50, P < .01), and surgical site infection (OR 0.37, P < .001) within 90 days.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that HD patients are a high-risk population in TKA compared to RT patients and warrant stringent perioperative monitoring.

Shoulder arthroplasty following solid organ transplant: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to report a systematic review and meta-analysis of solid organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty to compare functional and radiographic outcomes, demographics, and complications with non-transplant patients.

Methods

Studies were included if they examined patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty in the setting of prior solid organ transplantation and included post operative range of motion, patient-reported outcomes, complications, or revisions. Studies were excluded if they were national database analyses or lacked clinical data. Pubmed, MEDLine, Scopus, and Web of Science were queried using relevant search terms in July 2022. Data was pooled, weighted, and a paired t-test and chi-square analysis was performed.

Results

There were 71 SOT and 159 non-SOT shoulders included in the study. The most common indication for surgery was avascular necrosis (n = 26) in the solid organ transplant group and osteoarthritis (n = 60) in the non-SOT group. Forward elevation, external rotation, ASES, and VAS pain scores improved significantly in both cohorts following surgery. There was no significant difference in age at surgery (p-value = 0.20), postoperative forward elevation (p-value = 0.08), postoperative external rotation (0.84), and postoperative ASES scores (p-value = 0.11) between the two cohorts. VAS pain scores were significantly lower in the SOT cohort (p-value<0.01). The risk of death was significantly higher in the SOT group (p-value<0.01). but the rate of overall complications (p = 0.47), surgical complication (p-value = 0.79), or revision surgery (p-value = 1.00) was not significantly different between the two cohorts.

Conclusion

Shoulder arthroplasty is a safe, effective option in patients following solid organ transplant. There is not an increased risk of adverse outcomes, and SOT patients had comparable range of motion and patient-reported outcomes when compared to their non-SOT peers.

Level of evidence

III.

Total joint arthroplasty following solid organ transplants: complications and mid-term outcomes

PURPOSE

Survival after solid organ transplant (SOT) is improving, and demand for total joint arthroplasty (TJA) among SOT recipients is rising. Outcomes including revision, periprosthetic joint infection, and survivorship based on SOT type are variable. We sought to compare peri-operative complications, implant survivorship, and mortality for patients undergoing TJA following SOT.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the institutional database for primary TJA among SOT recipients from 2000 to 2020 was performed. Revisions, conversion TJA, and patients with multiple organ transplants were excluded. Patients were stratified by transplant organ. Transfusions, 90-day readmissions and emergency department (ED) visits, revisions, and mortality were compared using descriptive statistics and Cox proportional hazard ratios.

RESULTS

A total of 119 total hip arthroplasties (THA) and 63 total knee arthroplasties (TKA) in SOT recipients were studied. Most common SOT was renal (39%), then lung (27%), liver (24%), and heart (10%). TKA postoperative transfusion rates varied by organ (p = 0.037; [heart 0%, liver 9.5%, renal 24.0%, lung 50.0%]). Implant survivorship was 95.6% at one year (95% CI 90.3-98.1) and 92.1% at four years (83.9-96.3). Mortality was 2.9% at one year (95% CI 1.1-7.4) and 23.2% at four years (95% CI 16.1-32.3). After adjusting for procedure, duration from transplant to TJA, age, and Elixhauser Index, lung recipients had higher mortality versus heart (RR 4.39 [95% CI 1.64-15.38]; p = 0.002), kidney (7.98 [3.04-24.61]; p < 0.001), and liver (7.98 [3.04-24.61; p < 0.001) patients.

CONCLUSION

TJA after SOT yields acceptable peri-operative outcomes and implant survivorship, but mortality risk is substantial, especially among lung transplant recipients.

Intertrochanteric fracture fixation in solid organ transplant patients: outcomes and survivorship

BACKGROUND

Solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients have complex medical and surgical risk factors; however, the outcomes of these patients undergoing surgical fixation of hip fractures are unknown. This study sought to evaluate SOT patients' outcomes and survivorship after intertrochanteric (IT) fracture fixation.

METHODS

A retrospective review identified 12 SOT patients who underwent cephalomedullary (CMN) nail fixation for IT fractures and were matched (1:2) to a cohort of 24 non-SOT IT fracture patients. Perioperative results and complications, mortality/patient survivorship, and clinical outcomes were compared between the cohorts.

RESULTS

The time from presentation to surgical fixation was within 48 h of presentation for the non-SOT patients, while only 75% of SOT patients underwent surgery within 48 h of presentation (p = 0.034). The 90-day readmission rate for SOT patients was 25% versus 13% in the non-SOT group (p = 0.38). Similarly, the SOT cohort experienced a higher rate of major medical complication (25% vs. 13%, p = 0.38). There were two (16%) reoperations in the SOT group and three (13%) in the non-SOT matched group (p = 0.99). Respectively, the 90-day and 1-year estimated patient survivorship was similar between the two cohorts: SOT patients with 92% (95% CI 54-99%) and 73% (95% CI 24-93%) versus 86% (95% CI 62-95%) and 72% (95% CI 47-86%, HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.18-4.62, p = 0.92) in non-SOT patients.

CONCLUSION

SOT patients who underwent CMN fixation for IT fractures required more time from hospital presentation to surgical management than non-SOT patients. Although not statistically significant, SOT patients demonstrated more acute complications and readmissions, but similar mortality compared to those without transplant.

Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes for Femoral Neck Fractures in Transplant Patients

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term complications between transplant and nontransplant patients who undergo hip arthroplasty for femoral neck fractures (FNFs). Additionally, we sought to further compare the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) versus hemiarthroplasty (HA) within the transplant group.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review utilizing the Nationwide Readmissions Database. Transplant patients were identified and stratified based on transplant type: kidney, liver, or other (heart, lung, bone marrow, and pancreas). Outcomes of interest included index hospitalization mortality, perioperative complications, length of stay, costs, hospital readmission, and surgical complications within 90 days of discharge.

RESULTS

From 2010 to 2018, a total of 881,061 patients underwent THA or HA for FNFs, of which 2163 (0.2%) were transplant patients. When compared with nontransplant patients, all transplant patients had an increased risk of requiring blood transfusion (odds ratio [OR] = 1.51, P = .001), acute kidney injury (OR = 2.02, P < .001), and discharge to facility (OR = 1.67, P = .001) while having increased index hospitalization length of stay and costs. Liver and other transplant patients had an increased risk of readmission within 90 days (OR = 1.82, P < .001 and OR = 1.60, P = .014 respectively). Subgroup analysis for transplant patients comparing HA with THA demonstrated no differences in perioperative complication rates and decreased hospitalization length of stay and cost associated with THA.

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective cohort study, transplant patients had an increased risk of requiring blood transfusions and acute kidney injury after hip arthroplasty for FNFs. There were no differences in short-term complications between transplant patients treated with HA versus THA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 (Retrospective cohort study).

Increased Medical Complications Following Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients With Solid Organ Transplant: A Matched Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

As patient longevity increases following solid organ transplantation (SOT), more transplant patients are undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study is to compare 90-day postoperative complications and 2-year surgical complications following primary THA in patients with and without a history of SOT.

METHODS

Patients with a history of SOT with subsequent primary THA between 2010 and 2018 were identified in a national all-payer claims database (PearlDiver Technologies). This SOT cohort was propensity-matched with a control cohort (no history of SOT) based on age, gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and obesity with bivariate analysis to compare outcomes between cohorts.

RESULTS

Following matching, 3103 patients were included in the SOT cohort and 6196 patients in the control cohort. The cohorts were successfully matched, with no differences in demographics or comorbidities. Relative to the control cohort, patients with a history of SOT were at significantly increased risk of renal failure (P < .001), anemia (P < .001), arrhythmia with and without atrial fibrillation (P < .001), blood transfusion (P < .001), cellulitis (P = .048), myocardial infarction (P < .001), pneumonia (P = .036), heart failure (P < .001), and sepsis (P = .038) at 90 days postoperatively. There were no significant differences between the cohorts in 2-year surgical revisions, regardless of indication.

CONCLUSION

Following primary THA, patients with a history of SOT are at increased risk of 90-day medical complications but not 2-year surgical complications or revisions relative to patients without SOT. Clinicians should be mindful of the increased risk for cardiopulmonary, renal, hematologic, and infectious complications when counseling and managing this patient population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-Retrospective Database Study.

Revision total knee arthroplasty outcomes in solid organ transplant Patients, a matched cohort study of aseptic and infected revisions

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that solid organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are at an increased risk of postoperative complications. The purpose of this study is to utilize a large, national database to investigate revision TKA (rTKA) outcomes in SOT patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review utilizing the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) and ICD-9 codes to identify patients who underwent rTKA from 2010-2014 with a history of at least one SOT. Propensity-score-matching (PSM) was used to compare rTKA outcomes in SOT patients compared to matched patients without SOT.

RESULTS

A total of 303,867 rTKAs, with 464 of those being performed in SOT patients, were included in the study. Of these, 71,903 and 182 were performed for PJI in non-SOT and SOT patients, respectively. rTKA was performed most frequently in kidney transplant patients (53.0%) followed by liver transplant patients (34.3%). For non-PJI patients, SOT patients had a higher 90-day readmission rate than matched non-SOT rTKA patients (23.2% vs 12.6%, p = 0.006). However, there were no differences in 90-day readmission rates for specific rTKA complications, subsequent revision rTKA, or mortality. Among patients undergoing rTKA for PJI, there was no difference in overall 90-day readmission rate, readmission for specific rTKA complications, subsequent revision rTKA, or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

While the increased medical comorbidities associated with SOT place patients at increased risk for complications following rTKA, it appears that SOT alone does not do so when patients are matched based on overall medical comorbidity.

Kidney transplant outcomes among recipients with post-transplant hip or knee joint replacement surgery

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at a higher risk of needing hip or knee replacement (joint replacement) surgery due to the high prevalence of degenerative joint disease and other conditions. However, there remains a large debate about the timing of joint replacement surgery and whether it should be pre- vs post-transplant. We conducted a retrospective study analyzing all adult kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) at our university hospital who had undergone subsequent joint replacement between 2001 and 2017. Transplant-specific outcomes of acute rejection, death censored graft failure (DCGF), and patient death post-joint replacement surgery were outcomes of interest. Controls were selected at a 1:3 ratio based on the incidence density sampling of post-transplant interval. There were 101 KTRs in the joint replacement group and were compared with 281 controls. In the multivariate analysis, the need for joint replacement was not associated with acute rejection (HR: 1.59; 95% CI: 0.77-3.29; p = 0.21); DCGF (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.49-1.60; p = 0.70) or patient death (HR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.55-1.38, p = 0.42). In selected KTRs, joint replacement surgery was not associated with detrimental transplant-specific outcomes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Outcomes of Femoral Neck Fracture Treated With Hip Arthroplasty in Solid Organ Transplant Patients

Background

Solid organ transplant (SOT) patients have increased risk of complications, infection, and mortality after elective total hip arthroplasty (THA). The study aims to compare SOT recipients' clinical outcomes to a matched group of nontransplant patients after nonelective THA and hemiarthroplasty for acute femoral neck fracture (FNF).

Methods

A retrospective review identified 31 SOT patients undergoing hip arthroplasty (24 hemiarthroplasty and 7 THA) for FNF and were matched 1:1 to non-SOT patients based on age, sex, body mass index, surgical procedure, and year of surgery. Patient survivorship, perioperative outcomes, complications, and reoperations were compared. The mean follow-up was 3 years.

Results

The estimated survivorship free from mortality for SOT and non-SOT patients at 1- year was not different (77% and 84%, respectively, P = .52). The 90-day readmission rate was significantly higher with 8 (26%) in the SOT cohort and none in the non-SOT group (P < .01). Major medical complications occurred in 16% of SOT patients compared to 5% in controls (P = .21). Three (10%) reoperations/revisions were required for SOT patients and none in non-SOT group (P = .24).

Conclusion

SOT recipients undergoing nonelective hip arthroplasty for FNF demonstrated increased readmission rates compared to matched controls. For this rare clinical scenario, diligent perioperative care by surgeons and multidisciplinary transplant specialists is necessary to mitigate increased risk of SOT patients.

Increased perioperative complication rates in patients with solid organ transplants following rotator cuff repair

BACKGROUND

Rotator cuff repair is the second most common soft tissue procedure performed in orthopedics. Additionally, an increasing percentage of the population has received a solid organ transplant (SOT). The chronic use of immunosuppressants as well as a high prevalence of medical comorbidities in this population are both important risk factors when considering surgical intervention. The purpose of this study is to determine the demographic profile, comorbidity profile, and perioperative complication rate of SOT patients undergoing inpatient rotator cuff repair surgery compared to nontransplanted patients.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried from years 2002-2017 to identify all patients who underwent inpatient rotator cuff repair (n = 144,528 weighted). This group was further divided into SOT (n = 286 weighted) and nontransplant (n = 144,242 weighted) cohorts. Demographic and comorbidity analyses were performed between these groups. Additionally, a matched cohort of nontransplanted patients controlled for the year of procedure, age, sex, race, income, and hospital region was created in a 1:1 ratio to the SOT group (n = 286 each) for perioperative complication rate analysis.

RESULTS

Compared to nontransplanted patients, SOT patients were more likely to have at least 1 significant medical comorbidity (98% vs. 69%, P < .001), had a higher number of total comorbidities (3.1 vs. 1.4, P < .001), and had a higher Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index (2.6 vs. 0.54, P < .001). Compared to the matched cohort, SOT patients experienced longer hospital stays (2.9 vs. 1.8 days, P < .001), higher surgery costs ($12,031 vs. $8476, P < .001), and were more likely to experience a perioperative complication (24% vs. 3%, P < .001) with an odds ratio of 7.7 (95% confidence interval: 3.9-15.1).

CONCLUSION

Compared with nontransplanted patients, SOT patients undergoing rotator cuff repair had a significantly higher comorbidity index, longer hospital stays, costlier surgeries, and were >7 times more likely to experience a perioperative complication. With nearly a quarter of all SOT patients experiencing a perioperative complication following rotator cuff repair, careful consideration for surgery as well as increased postoperative surveillance should be considered in this unique population.

Complications and safety of the transplanted organ after upper extremity surgery in patients receiving immunosuppressant therapy after solid organ transplantation

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the complications and safety of transplanted organs after upper extremity surgery in patients taking immunosuppressants after solid organ transplantation (SOT).

METHODS

Seventy-two transplant recipients underwent 99 upper extremity surgeries while on immunosuppressants after SOT at our institution between January 2009 and December 2018. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of these patients, including their demographic information and data related to the SOT and upper extremity surgery.

RESULTS

Trigger/tendon release (n = 31, 31.3%) was the most frequently performed upper extremity surgery, followed by incision and drainage for an infection (n = 16, 16.2%). Post-operative complications occurred after ten upper extremity operative procedures (10.1%), among which uncontrolled infection after surgery for an infection (n = 4) was the most common. According to the Clavien-Dindo classification, the complications of three surgical procedures were grade I, three were grade II, and four were grade III, and all were treatable. The occurrence rate of the complications was not significantly different between emergent and elective surgery. All transplanted organ-specific indicators did not worsen significantly after emergent or elective upper extremity surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Since the function of the transplanted organ was well-preserved after emergent or elective upper extremity surgery, common upper extremity procedures do not seem to be a worrisome practice for SOT patients. However, when treating hand and upper extremity infections in SOT patients, surgeons should explain the possible need for multiple operations  and the high complication rate.

Comparison of total joint arthroplasty outcomes between renal transplant patients and dialysis patients-a meta-analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVES

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are at an increased risk of needing total joint arthroplasty (TJA); however, both dialysis and renal transplantation might be potential predictors of adverse TJA outcomes. For dialysis patients, the high risk of blood-borne infection and impaired muscular skeletal function are threats to implants' survival, while for renal transplant patients, immunosuppression therapy is also a concern. There is still no high-level evidence in the published literature that has determined the best timing of TJA for ESRD patients.

METHODS

A literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (up to November 2019) was performed to collect studies comparing TJA outcomes between renal transplant and dialysis patients. Two reviewers independently conducted literature screening and quality assessments with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). After the data were extracted, statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Compared with the dialysis group, a lower risk of mortality (RR = 0.56, Cl = [0.42, 0.73], P < 0.01, I² = 49%) and revision (RR = 0.42, CI = [0.30, 0.59], P < 0.01, I² = 43%) was detected in the renal transplant group. Different results of periprosthetic joint infection were shown in subgroups with different sample sizes. There was no significant difference in periprosthetic joint infection in the small-sample-size subgroup, while in the large-sample-size subgroup, renal transplant patients had significantly less risk (RR = 0.19, CI = [0.13, 0.23], P < 0.01, I² = 0%). For dislocation, venous thromboembolic disease, and overall complications, there was no significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Total joint arthroplasty has better safety and outcomes in renal transplant patients than in dialysis patients. Therefore, delaying total joint arthroplasty in dialysis patients until renal transplantation has been performed would be a desirable option. The controversy among different studies might be partially accounted for that quite a few studies have a relatively small sample size to detect the difference between renal transplant patients and dialysis patients.

Shoulder arthroplasty in solid organ transplant patients: a retrospective, match paired analysis

BACKGROUND

Several studies have evaluated total hip and knee arthroplasty in solid organ transplant (SOT) patients; however, there are limited studies evaluating shoulder arthroplasty in SOT patients. This study compares the complications and functional outcomes of SOT patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty with a matched control group.

METHODS

The institution's database was retrospectively reviewed for patients with a history of SOT undergoing primary shoulder arthroplasty (with minimum 2-year follow-up) and compared with a control group matched for age, sex, preoperative diagnosis, and surgical procedure. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion and outcome scores, perioperative surgical and medical complications, hospital length of stay, and mortality were compared.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients with previous SOT underwent 19 shoulder arthroplasties. Thirty-four underwent 35 shoulder arthroplasties in the control group. At last follow-up, the SOT group had a significantly worse UCLA score. The SOT group had a significantly worse improvement in UCLA, active elevation, and passive elevation scores in pre- to postoperative scores. There was no difference in length of stay, infection, or surgical complications. Ninety-day readmissions, medically related complications, and required blood transfusion were significantly higher in the SOT group. There was increased mortality in the SOT compared with the control group (death occurred on average 1577 days after arthroplasty).

CONCLUSION

Shoulder arthroplasty in patients with previous SOT appears safe and effective for degenerative shoulder disorders. Patients should be counseled preoperatively that their range of motion and function may not improve as much as their nontransplant cohorts. SOT patients may have increased incidence of postoperative blood transfusions and medically related complications.

Complications After Upper Extremity Surgery in Solid Organ Transplant Patients

PURPOSE

To determine the rate of and risk factors for complications in solid organ transplant (SOT) patients who have had surgery of the upper extremity.

METHODS

All SOT recipients who had an upper extremity procedure performed by 1 of 6 surgeons at our institution were identified from 2006 to 2018. Demographic data, transplant date and type, upper extremity surgery procedure and date, antirejection medications, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System (ASA) score, and complications were recorded. Complications were defined as any surgical complication within 1 year and any medical complication within the first 30 days after surgery. Complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo classification system.

RESULTS

Fifty-one upper extremity procedures in 32 SOT patients were included. Of the 51 procedures, 21 were complicated, for an overall complication rate of 41%. Surgical complications occurred equally before and after 30 days with infection being the most common. Only 1 of the procedures resulting in surgical site infection had an implant (temporary K-wire fixation). The majority of complications were grade II, and there were no grade IV or V complications. Age, ASA score, type or number of SOT, and immunosuppressive regimens were similar between complicated and noncomplicated procedures. Procedures involving male patients were more likely to be complicated than those involving female patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications after upper extremity operations are common in SOT patients, and surgical complications often occur after 30 days. Surgeons should counsel this population that they carry a higher complication risk than the general population and may require longer-term monitoring after surgery.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Betadine-Soaked Alcohol Pad and Rigid Immobilization: An Inexpensive and Effective Method to Diminish Infections With Exposed Kirschner Wires in Hand Fractures

This study describes a novel method of pin care with a Betadine-soaked alcohol pad in conjunction with immobilization to reduce pin site complications in hand fractures treated with exposed Kirschner wires (K-wires). We conducted a retrospective review of all phalangeal and metacarpal fractures from 2010 to 2016 treated with K-wire fixation, a Betadine-soaked alcohol pad, and immobilization in a well-moulded plaster cast. A total of 155 patients with metacarpal or phalangeal fractures were identified, of which 149 were included with 164 fractures treated with 217 exposed K-wires. Overall complication rate was 6.1% (10/164), of which 3 fractures (1.8%) developed infections. Two infections occurred in patients with a history of organ transplantation. The most common complication was stiffness requiring closed manipulation under anesthesia (2.4%, 4/164), resulting in full range of motion in 3 of 4 patients. Exposed K-wires remain an effective method of hand fracture fixation associated with a low complication rate.

Comparison of Postoperative Complications and Survivorship of Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Dialysis and Renal Transplantation Patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is an established risk factor for surgical site infection (SSI) and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after primary total joint arthroplasty. However, there is limited literature comparing outcomes between patients who receive dialysis vs renal transplantation. We examined and compared clinical outcomes of patients receiving dialysis vs those who had a prior renal transplantation.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 107 patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty between 2000 and 2017, who were receiving dialysis (n = 50), or had a prior renal transplantation (n = 57). The cohorts were compared with respect to postoperative complications, including 90-day SSI, PJI, and failure resulting in revision procedure. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine independent risk factors for complications and revision.

RESULTS

A significantly higher rate of postoperative complications was seen in dialysis patients (28.0%) compared with renal transplant (7.1%). In particular, increased SSI and PJI rates were observed in dialysis group compared with the transplant cohort (18.0% vs 3.5%). In addition, increased revision rates (24.0% vs 3.5%) and decreased survivorship for the implant were observed in dialysis patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that patients with renal transplant were less likely to require revision arthroplasty and that total knee arthroplasty (vs total hip arthroplasty) was an independent risk factor for failure in dialysis patients.

CONCLUSION

This study provides further evidence that patients on dialysis who are on transplant list should await arthroplasty until transplant has taken place. In dialysis patients who are not transplant candidates, extreme care should be exercised, and additional strategies used to minimize the high complication rate that may be encountered.

Effect of chronic kidney disease on outcomes of total joint arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the differences in preoperative comorbidities, postoperative mortality, the rate of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), and revision rate after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) between patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD)(CKD group) and patients with normal kidney function (non-CKD group).

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for studies assessing the effect of CKD on TJA outcome. This meta-analysis included studies that (1) compared the outcomes of TJA between the CKD and non-CKD groups; (2) compared the outcomes of TJA based on CKD stage; and (3) evaluated the risk factors for morbidity or mortality after TJA. We compared the mortality, PJI, and revision rate between CKD and non-CKD groups, and between dialysis-dependent patients (dialysis group) and non-dialysis-dependent patients (non-dialysis group).

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were included in this meta-analysis. In most studies that assessed preoperative comorbidities, the number and severity of preoperative comorbidities were reported to be higher in the CKD group than in the non-CKD group. The risk of mortality was found to be higher in the CKD and dialysis groups compared with the respective control groups. In the studies based on administrative data, the unadjusted odds ratio (OR) of PJI was significantly higher in the CKD group than in the non-CKD group; however, no significant difference between the groups was noted in the adjusted OR. After total hip arthroplasty (THA), the risk of PJI was higher in the dialysis group than in the non-dialysis group. No significant difference was noted between the groups in the rate of PJI following total knee arthroplasty. The revision rate did not significantly differ between the CKD and non-CKD groups in the studies that were based on administrative data. However, the unadjusted OR was significantly higher in the dialysis group than in the non-dialysis group.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative comorbidities and mortality risk were higher in the CKD and dialysis groups than in their respective control groups. The risk of revision was greater in the dialysis group than in the non-dialysis group, and the risk of PJI in the dialysis group became even greater after THA. Surgeons should perform careful preoperative risk stratification and optimization for patients with CKD scheduled to undergo TJA.

Shoulder arthroplasty in patients with immunosuppression following solid organ transplantation

BACKGROUND

The purpose was to determine the risk and outcomes of primary shoulder arthroplasties in patients with immunosuppression who had undergone solid organ transplantation.

METHODS

Using a single institution's total joint registry, we reviewed 30 primary shoulder arthroplasties in 25 post-transplantation patients, including 12 total shoulder arthroplasties, 10 hemiarthroplasties, and 8 reverse shoulder arthroplasties, between 1985 and 2012. Therapy and patient variables were recorded, including immunosuppressive therapy protocols, the date of preceding solid organ transplantation, and specific medications taken in the perioperative period. We matched a cohort of control patients for age, sex, type of implant, and year of surgery at a ratio of 4:1. Two groups were compared regarding mortality risk, complications, and clinical outcomes (pain score, range of motion, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score).

RESULTS

No periprosthetic infections occurred in the post-transplantation group at a mean follow-up of 39 months. However, the post-transplantation group showed an increased risk of periprosthetic fractures compared with the control group (hazard ratio, 8.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.22-70.98; P = .03). Despite the increase in fractures, the overall number of complications did not differ between the groups. Furthermore, postoperative shoulder function and outcome scores were not significantly different between patients who had a prior transplant and those who did not.

CONCLUSION

Primary shoulder arthroplasty in patients with immunosuppression who underwent solid organ transplantation is a successful procedure to treat glenohumeral arthritis. In contrast, there may be an increased risk of periprosthetic fractures in patients with a history of a solid organ transplant.

Revision Joint Arthroplasty and Renal Transplant: A Matched Control Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

There is little literature concerning clinical outcomes following revision joint arthroplasty in solid organ transplant recipients. The aims of this study are to (1) analyze postoperative outcomes and mortality following revision hip and knee arthroplasty in renal transplant recipients (RTRs) compared to non-RTRs and (2) characterize common indications and types of revision procedures among RTRs.

METHODS

A retrospective Medicare database review identified 1020 RTRs who underwent revision joint arthroplasty (359 revision total knee arthroplasty [TKA] and 661 revision total hip arthroplasty [THA]) from 2005 to 2014. RTRs were compared to their respective matched control groups of nontransplant revision arthroplasty patients for hospital length of stay, readmission, major medical complications, infections, septicemia, and mortality following revision.

RESULTS

Renal transplantation was significantly associated with increased length of stay (6.12 ± 7.86 vs 4.33 ± 4.29, P < .001), septicemia (odds ratio [OR], 2.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.83-3.46; P < .001), and 1-year mortality (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.51-4.53; P < .001) following revision TKA. Among revision THA patients, RTR status was associated with increased hospital readmission (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.03-1.47; P = .023), septicemia (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.41-2.34; P < .001), and 1-year mortality (OR, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.88-3.66; P < .001). The most frequent primary diagnoses associated with revision TKA and THA among RTRs were mechanical complications of prosthetic implant.

CONCLUSION

Prior renal transplantation among revision joint arthroplasty patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality when compared to nontransplant recipients.

Outcomes of total hip arthroplasty surgery in heart and lung transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, arthroplasty in heart and lung transplant patients has been undertaken to manage transplant-related complications. More recently, arthroplasty is increasingly being performed for end-stage osteoarthritis. This study reviewed short-term outcomes and complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in heart and lung transplant recipients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of heart and lung transplant recipients who underwent THA was identified using ICD-10 coding. Post-operative complications and hospital outcomes were collected using the patient medical record.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients underwent 17 primary THA between 2008 and 2017, including five for osteoarthritis and 12 for femoral head avascular necrosis. Of the 13 patients, nine were bilateral sequential lung transplant recipients and four were orthotopic heart transplant recipients. The mean patient age was 61 years, with nine being male. Overall, five patients had one post-operative complication with eight having two or more complications. Surgical complications included three intraoperative fractures, three patients with superficial infection and one with deep infection requiring surgery. Seven patients had significant bleeding requiring blood transfusion. Prosthetic dislocations occurred in two patients, with one patient requiring revision surgery (developing a joint infection). Other complications included one pulmonary embolism, two episodes of pneumonia and six episodes of acute kidney injury, whilst three patients developed post-operative delirium. At 6-week follow-up, five patients had ongoing pain and seven had limitations with mobility. At 12-month follow-up, three patients reported ongoing pain.

CONCLUSION

Complications following THA after transplant are common. The risks and benefits of THA should be carefully considered preoperatively in this cohort.

Postoperative Impact of Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease, Hemodialysis, and Renal Transplant After Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), hemodialysis (HD), and renal transplantation (RT) is increasing. This study assessed postoperative complications among diabetic patients with CKD, HD, or post-RT after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

Four cohorts were created using a nationwide database: DM&THA, DM&CKD&THA, DM&HD&THA, and DM&RT&THA. Cohorts were matched to a control group by age and gender. Thirty-day medical complications and 90-day and 2-year surgical complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

All 30-day complications were higher in each cohort. Ninety-day and 2-year surgical complications in the DM&HD&THA cohort were increased compared to the DM&RT&THA cohort. Remarkably, no increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection, periprosthetic fracture, or revision was noted post-THA in the DM&RT&THA cohort.

CONCLUSION

Diabetic patients with worsening kidney function are associated with increased post-THA complications. Postsurgical risks decline following RT. Diabetic patients with kidney failure may want to undergo RT prior to THA to optimize surgical outcomes.

Revision Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasties After Solid Organ Transplant

BACKGROUND

As solid organ transplant (SOT) patients' survival improves, the number undergoing total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is increasing. Accordingly, the number of revision procedures in this higher-risk group is also increasing. The goals of this study were to identify the most common failure mechanisms, associated complications, clinical outcomes, and patient survivorship of SOT patients after revision THA or TKA.

METHODS

A retrospective review identified 39 revision procedures (30 revision THAs and 9 revision TKAs) completed in 37 SOT patients between 2000 and 2013. The mean age at revision surgery was 62 years with a mean follow-up of 6 years.

RESULTS

The most common failure mode for revision THA was aseptic loosening (10/30, 33%), followed by periprosthetic joint infection (PJI; 7/30, 23%). The most common failure mode for revision TKA was PJI (5/9, 56%). There were 6 re-revision THAs for PJI (3/30; 10%) and instability (3/30; 10%). There were 2 reoperations after revision TKA, both for acute PJI (2/9; 22%). Final Harris Hip Scores significantly (P = .03) improved as did Knee Society Scores (P = .01). Estimated survivorship free from mortality at 5 and 10 years was 71% and 60% after revision THA and 65% and 21% after revision TKA, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Revision THA and TKA after solid organ transplantation carry considerable risk for re-revision, particularly for PJI. Although SOT recipients demonstrate improved clinical function after revision procedures, patient survivorship at mid- to long-term follow-up is low.

The Impact of Solid Organ Transplant History on Inpatient Complications, Mortality, Length of Stay, and Cost for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Admissions in the United States

BACKGROUND

As the prevalence of and life expectancy after solid organ transplantation increases, some of these patients will require total hip arthroplasty (THA). Immunosuppressive therapy, metabolic disorders, and post-transplant medications may place transplant patients at higher risk of adverse events following surgery. The objective of this study was to compare inpatient complications, mortality, length of stay (LOS), and costs for THA patients with and without solid organ transplant history.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using 1998-2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Primary THA patients were queried (n = 3,175,456). After exclusions, remaining patients were assigned to transplant (n = 7558) or non-transplant groups (n = 2,772,943). After propensity score matching, adjusted for patient and hospital characteristics, logistic regression and paired t-tests examined the effect of transplant history on outcomes.

RESULTS

Between 1998 and 2011, THA volume among transplant patients grew approximately 48%. The overall prevalence of one or more complications following THA was greater in the transplant group than in the non-transplant group (32.0% vs 22.1%; P < .001). In-hospital mortality was minimal, with comparable rates (0.1%) in both groups (P = .93). Unadjusted trends show that transplant patients have greater annual and overall mean LOS (4.47 days) and mean admission costs ($18,402) than non-transplant patients (3.73 days; $16,899; P < .001). After propensity score matching, transplant history was associated with increased complication risk (odds ratio, 1.56) after THA, longer hospital LOS (+0.64 days; P < .001), and increased admission costs (+$887; P = .005).

CONCLUSION

Transplant patients exhibited increased odds of inpatient complications, longer LOS, and greater admission costs after THA compared with non-transplant patients.

Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty After Solid Organ Transplant: Survivorship and Complications

BACKGROUND

Clinical outcomes remain largely unknown beyond perioperative and short-term follow-up of solid organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Patient mortality, implant survivorship, and complications of 96 TKAs (76 patients) after SOT were retrospectively reviewed through an internal joint registry. Mean age at index arthroplasty was 66 years, and mean follow-up was 4 years.

RESULTS

Overall mortality rates at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years from TKA were 2.6%, 7.9%, and 13.2%, respectively, and combined SOT patient survivorship was 92% at 2 years and 82% at 5 years. Implant survivorship free of any component revision or implant removal was 98% at 2 years and 93% at 5 years. There was a high rate of perioperative complications (12.5%), including periprosthetic fractures (5.2%) and deep periprosthetic infection (3.2%).

CONCLUSION

TKA does not appear to have any effect on SOT patient survivorship following the procedure. However, SOT patients may have a higher risk of perioperative complications and a lower implant survivorship than the general population of TKA patients at midterm follow-up.

Survivorship After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Solid-Organ Transplant Patients

BACKGROUND

Although a growing number of primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) are being performed on solid-organ transplant (SOT) recipients, long-term patient and implant survivorships have not been well studied in contemporary transplant and arthroplasty practices.

METHODS

A total of 136 THAs (105 patients) with prior SOT were retrospectively reviewed from 2000 to 2013 at mean clinical follow-up of 5 years. The mean age was 59 years, with 39% being females. The most common SOT was renal (56%), followed by liver (24%).

RESULTS

Patient mortality was 3.8% and 13.3% at 2 and 5 years, respectively. There were 9 revisions (6.6%), including 5 (4%) for deep periprosthetic infection. Implant survivorship free of any revision was 95% and 94% at 2 and 5 years, respectively. Transplant type or surgical indication did not significantly impact patient or implant survivorship.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the general population, SOT patients undergoing THA have slightly higher mortality rates at 5 years. Implant survivorship free of revision was slightly lower than the general population, primarily due to an increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection.

Complicated Outcomes After Emergent Lower Extremity Surgery in Patients With Solid Organ Transplants

The complications of emergent or urgent surgery in solid organ transplant recipients are unclear. The goal of this nonrandomized retrospective case study, conducted at a large public university teaching hospital, was to determine the following: (1) 90-day postsurgical complications in solid organ transplant recipients who undergo fracture surgery of the lower extremities; (2) 90-day and 1-year mortality rates for this cohort; (3) correlation of particular postsurgical complications with the 90-day or 1-year mortality rate; and (4) correlation of body mass index with the 90-day or 1-year mortality rate. Subjects included 36 solid organ transplant recipients who underwent surgical treatment for 37 emergent or urgent lower extremity fractures within 72 hours of presentation to the emergency department. Patients were followed for all medical and surgical complications for 90 days and for all-cause mortality for 1 year. Within 90 days of surgery, patients had complications that included acute renal failure (15, 40.5%), deep venous thrombosis (3, 8.1%), pulmonary embolus (2, 5.4%), pneumonia (7, 18.9%), superficial surgical site infection (3, 8.1%), and nonorthopedic sepsis (4, 10.8%). In addition, 3 (8.1%) and 5 (13.9%) patients died within 90 days and 1 year, respectively. Hospital readmission correlated with a higher 1-year mortality rate (odds ratio, 14.000; P=.016). Higher body mass index correlated with higher 90-day (odds ratio, 1.425; P=.035) and 1-year (odds ratio, 1.334; P=.033) mortality rates. Solid organ transplant recipients with lower extremity fracture have high 90-day and 1-year mortality rates and may have multiple complications within 90 days of treatment. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(6):e1063-e1069.].

Prosthetic Device Infections

The immunocompromised host is a particularly vulnerable population in whom routine and unusual infections can easily and frequently occur. Prosthetic devices are commonly used in these patients and the infections associated with those devices present a number of challenges for both the microbiologist and the clinician. Biofilms play a major role in device-related infections, which may contribute to failed attempts to recover organisms from routine culture methods. Moreover, device-related microorganisms can be difficult to eradicate by antibiotic therapy alone. Changes in clinical practice and advances in laboratory diagnostics have provided significant improvements in the detection and accurate diagnosis of device-related infections. Disruption of the bacterial biofilm plays an essential role in recovering the causative agent in culture. Various culture and nucleic acid amplification techniques are more accurate to guide directed treatment regimens. This chapter reviews the performance characteristics of currently available diagnostic assays and summarizes published guidelines, where available, for addressing suspected infected prosthetic devices.

How Do Previous Solid Organ Transplant Recipients Fare After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty?

INTRODUCTION

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been proven to increase knee outcome scores after solid organ transplantation (SOT), but many authors are concerned about a higher complication rate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the complication profile of TKA after previous SOT.

METHODS

A search of the entire Medicare database from 2005 to 2011 was performed using International Classification of Disease, version 9, codes to identify 3339 patients who underwent TKA after 1 or more solid organ transplants including the kidney (2321), liver (772), lung (129), heart (412), and pancreas (167). A cohort of 1,685,295 patients served as a control with minimum 2-year follow-up. Postoperative complications at 30-day, 90-day, and overall time points were compared between the 2 cohorts.

RESULTS

Patients with any SOT were younger (age: <65, odds ratio [OR]: 6.58, P < .001), male (OR: 1.88, P < .001), and medically complex (significant increase in 28 of 29 Elixhauser comorbidities, P < .05). There was a significant increase (P < .05) in 11 of 13 (84.6%) recorded postoperative medical complications rates at 90 days. There was a significant increase overall in periprosthetic infection (OR: 2.11, P < .001), periprosthetic fracture (OR: 1.78, P < .001), and TKA revision (OR: 1.36, P < .001). When analyzed by individual organ, heart and lung transplants carried the fewest medical and surgical complications.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrate that patients with previous SOT who undergo elective primary TKA have more postoperative complications in the global period and at short-term follow-up. Yet, complication profiles by individual organ varied significantly.

Complications and Mortality in Chronic Renal Failure Patients Undergoing Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Comparison Between Dialysis and Renal Transplant Patients

BACKGROUND

In total joint arthroplasty (TJA) literature, there is a paucity of large cohort studies comparing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) vs non-CKD/ESRD patients. Thus, the purposes of this study were (1) to identify inhospital complications and mortality in CKD/ESRD and non-CKD/ESRD patients and (2) compare inhospital complications and mortality between dialysis and renal transplantation patients undergoing TJA.

METHODS

We queried the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for patients with and without diagnosis of CKD/ESRD and those with a renal transplant or on dialysis undergoing primary or revision total knee or hip arthroplasty from 2007 to 2011. Patient comorbidities were identified using the Elixhauser comorbidity index. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, codes were used to identify postoperative surgical site infections (SSIs), wound complications, deep vein thrombosis, and transfusions.

RESULTS

Chronic kidney disease/ESRD was associated with greater risk of SSIs (odds ratio [OR], 1.4; P<.001), wound complications (OR, 1.1; P=.01), transfusions (OR, 1.6; P<.001), deep vein thrombosis (OR, 1.4; P=.03), and mortality (OR, 2.1; P<.001) than non-CKD/ESRD patients. Dialysis patients had higher rates of SSI, wound complications, transfusions, and mortality compared to renal transplant patients.

CONCLUSION

Chronic kidney disease/ESRD patients had a greater risk of SSIs and wound complications compared to those without renal disease, and the risk of these complications was even greater in CKD/ESRD patients receiving dialysis. These findings emphasize the importance of counseling CKD patients about higher potential complications after TJA, and dialysis patients may be encouraged to undergo renal transplantation before TJA.

Early Postoperative Outcomes of Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty After Solid Organ Transplantation in the United States, 1998-2011

This review of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (1998-2011) examined trends in solid organ transplant patients who received a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to determine whether length of stay (LOS), cost, and perioperative complications differed from non-transplant peers. Primary TKA patients (n=5,870,421) were categorized as: (1) those with a history of solid organ transplant (n=6104) and (2) those without (n=5,864,317). Propensity matching was used to estimate adjusted effects of solid organ transplant history on perioperative outcomes. The percentage of TKA patients with a transplant history grew during the study period from 0.069% to 0.103%. Adjusted outcomes showed patients with a transplant had a 0.44 day longer LOS, $962 higher cost of admission, and were 1.43 times more likely to suffer any complication (P=0.0002).

Arthroplasty in organ transplant patients

The number of solid organ transplants performed in the United States continues to increase annually as does survival after transplant. These unique patients are increasingly likely to present to arthroplasty surgeons for elective hip or knee replacement secondary to a vascular necrosis from chronic immunosuppression, or even age-related development of osteoarthritis. Transplant recipients have a well-documented increased risk of complications but also excellent pain relief and dramatic improvement in quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach with the assistance of the medical transplant services for risk stratification and perioperative medical optimization is necessary. Prior solid organ transplant is not a contraindication to surgery; however, it is the responsibility of the surgeon to educate patients about the relative risks and benefits of prior to surgery.

Total joint arthroplasty in transplant recipients: in-hospital adverse outcomes

This study aims to determine in-hospital complications and mortality in transplant recipients following total joint arthroplasty. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was queried for patients with history of transplant and joint arthroplasty (primary or revision) from 1993 to 2011. Kidney transplant increased risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and wound infections (OR=2.03), systemic infection (OR=2.85), deep venous thrombosis (OR=2.07), acute renal failure (ARF) (OR=3.48), respiratory (OR=1.34), and cardiac (OR=1.21) complications. Liver transplant was associated with SSI/wound infections (OR=2.32), respiratory complications (OR=1.68), cardiac complications (OR=1.34), and ARF (OR=4.48). Other transplants grouped together were associated with wound complications (OR=2.13), respiratory complications (OR=2.06), and ARF (OR=4.42). Our study suggests these patients may be at increased risk of in-hospital complications, particularly ARF in renal and liver transplant patients.

Risk versus reward: total joint arthroplasty outcomes after various solid organ transplantations

Clinical outcomes were retrospectively reviewed for 76 primary total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasties (TKA) performed after kidney, liver, cardiac, and lung transplantation with follow-up of 30.2 and 41.2 months, respectively. For the THA and TKA cohorts, there were a high rate of medical complications (29% and 33%), increased hospital length of stay (4.2 and 3.7 days), and more reoperations (7.2% and 9.1%). Only 1 (1.8%) periprosthetic infection was documented for THAs but 3 (14.2%) TKAs required two-stage revisions for infection. All transplant cohorts demonstrated significant increases (P < 0.05) in HHS and KSS scores with majority of patients reporting overall good or excellent outcomes (82%-100%). These results suggest that various organ transplant patients may accept higher surgical risks for rewarding outcomes.