Increased Health Care Costs and Opioid Use in Patients with Anxiety and Depression Undergoing Rotator Cuff Repair

Perioperative duloxetine improves postoperative outcomes after anterior talofibular ligament repair for chronic lateral ankle instability for patients with depression: A prospective randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have indicated that depression is associated with persistent postoperative pain and decreased satisfaction following foot and ankle surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of perioperative duloxetine on postoperative outcomes of anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) surgical repair for chronic ankle instability (CAI) in patients with depression. We further sought to evaluate patients' satisfaction and side effects related to duloxetine.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients undergoing ATFL repair were screened for depression preoperatively with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Among 249 patients who underwent arthroscopic or open surgical Brostrom repair of the ATFL, 120 patients were identified as being "possibly depressed" and were included in the study. Sixty patients were randomly assigned to the duloxetine group (one day preoperatively and for 6 weeks postoperatively), and the other sixty were randomized to the placebo group. Painkillers and opioid consumption, pain scores, and patient satisfaction were recorded at 12, 24, 48, and 72hours postoperatively and at follow-up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Duloxetine-related side effects such as nausea/vomiting and fatigue were also recorded.

RESULTS

The patients in the duloxetine group reported a significantly longer time to rescue analgesic and reduced opioid requirements (including celecoxib, pregabalin, acetaminophen, and tramadol). The patients experienced decreased pain intensity and greater satisfaction with their pain management at 24, 48, 72h and 1 and 3 months after surgery (p<0.05). The duloxetine group also had significantly better clinical and functional outcomes at 3 and 6 months of follow-up compared to the placebo group (p<0.05). The occurrence and rate of symptoms of duloxetine side effects were not significant.

DISCUSSION

Depression is an important factor to consider and address because its presence before surgery can predict poor postoperative outcomes, including more severe postoperative pain, persistent postoperative pain, and increased consumption of painkillers and opioids.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative administration of duloxetine following ATFL repair for CAI in patients with depression increased the time to first postoperative rescue analgesic request and reduced both opioid consumption and postoperative pain. This approach also led to a high level of patient satisfaction. In addition, duloxetine improved the quality of recovery without leading to significant side effects.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I; prospective randomized controlled trial.

A matched-control study on the impact of depressive disorders following lumbar fusion for adult spinal deformity: an analysis of a nationwide administrative database

PURPOSE

In recent years, depression rates have been on the rise, resulting in soaring mental health issues globally. There is paucity of literature about the impact of depression on lumbar fusion for adult spine deformity. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether patients with depressive disorders undergoing lumbar deformity fusion have higher rates of (1) in-hospital length of stay; (2) ninety-day medical and surgical complications; and (3) medical reimbursement.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using a nationwide administrative claims database from January 2007 to December 2015 for patients undergoing lumbar fusion for spine deformity. Study participants with depressive disorders were selected and matched to controls by adjusting for sex, age, and comorbidities. In total, the query yielded 3706 patients, with 1286 who were experiencing symptoms of depressive disorders, and 2420 who served as the control cohort.

RESULTS

The study revealed that patients with depressive disorders had significantly higher in-hospital length of stay (6.0 days vs. 5.0 days, p < 0.0001) compared to controls. Study group patients also had higher incidence and odds of ninety-day medical and surgical complications (10.2% vs. 5.0%; OR, 2.50; 95% CI, 2.16-2.89; p < .0001). Moreover, patients with depressive disorders had significantly higher episode of care reimbursement ($54,539.2 vs. $51,645.2, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

This study illustrated that even after controlling for factors such as sex, age, and comorbidities, patients with depressive disorders had higher rates of in-hospital length of stay, medical and surgical complications, and total reimbursement.

Patients With Depression and/or Anxiety Having Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Show Decreased Number of Prescriptions and Number of Psychotherapy Sessions in the Year After Surgery

PURPOSE

To determine whether the utilization of psychological treatments changes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) for patients with preoperative depression and/or anxiety.

METHODS

The Truven Healthcare Marketscan database was used to identify patients who underwent arthroscopic RCR between January 2009 and December 2016. We included all patients with diagnosis codes associated with either depression or anxiety before RCR. Patients were excluded if they did not have complete insurance coverage for 1 year before or after surgery, or if they had arthroscopic RCR in the year before the index surgical procedure. We compared the proportion of patients with preoperative depression or anxiety who filled a prescription and had psychotherapy procedural codes in the year before and the year after arthroscopic RCR.

RESULTS

A total of 170,406 patients who underwent RCR were identified, of which depression and/or anxiety was found in 46,737 patients (43.7% male). Of the 46,737 patients, 19.6% filled a prescription for a depression/anxiety medication at least once in the year before surgery. Of this subset of patients, 41.5% did not fill a prescription for depression or anxiety medication after surgery, whereas 32.6% continued medication use but demonstrated a median 30-day reduction in the number of days' worth of medication. Similarly, 13.1% of patients were attending psychotherapy sessions preoperatively, but 76.6% of those patients either stopped or reduced the amount of psychotherapy sessions in the year following RCR.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of prescriptions and psychotherapy sessions decreased in the year after RCR for patients with preoperative diagnoses of depression and/or anxiety.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Electroconductivity, a regenerative engineering approach to reverse rotator cuff muscle degeneration

Muscle degeneration is one the main factors that lead to the high rate of retear after a successful repair of rotator cuff (RC) tears. The current surgical practices have failed to treat patients with chronic massive rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Therefore, regenerative engineering approaches are being studied to address the challenges. Recent studies showed the promising outcomes of electroactive materials (EAMs) on the regeneration of electrically excitable tissues such as skeletal muscle. Here, we review the most important biological mechanism of RC muscle degeneration. Further, the review covers the recent studies on EAMs for muscle regeneration including RC muscle. Finally, we will discuss the future direction toward the application of EAMs for the augmentation of RCTs.

Mental health disorders and pain modulation in orthopedic shoulder patients

Background

Various studies have examined the relationship between preoperative mental health diagnoses (MHDs) and postoperative outcomes in orthopedic shoulder patients. However, few investigations delve into the relationship between a preoperative MHD and postoperative opioid pain control regimens in patients who have undergone rotator cuff repair (RCR), total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), and reverse TSA (rTSA). We hypothesize that orthopedic shoulder patients with a preoperative MHD will be prescribed more opioids (ie, request more refills) postoperatively than those without a MHD.

Methods

An institutional review board-approved retrospective chart review was performed on 438 patients, 18 years or older, who underwent RCR, TSA, or rTSA. Patients were divided into two groups: those diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and/or schizophrenia (n = 193), and those with no previous MHD (n = 245). Statistical outcomes were analyzed with the independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, one-way Analysis of Variance, and Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results

Univariate analysis demonstrated significant differences between the MHD group and non-MHD group in average 90-day postoperative opioid scripts (2.10 vs. 1.55, respectively, P < .001) and median 90-day postoperative morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) prescribed (225 MME vs. 185.25 MME, respectively, P < .001). Among patients who were opioid naive 90 days preoperatively, significant differences were found in MMEs prescribed between the MHD and non-MHD group (225 MME vs. 150 MME, respectively, P < .001). Further analysis of opioid naive patients with specifically depression compared to patients with an alternate or no MHD diagnosis yielded significant differences in scripts (1.78 vs. 1.33, respectively, P = .031) and MMEs prescribed (225 MME vs. 150 MME, respectively, P < .001).

Conclusion

This study found that RCR, TSA, or rTSA patients with a preoperative MHD were prescribed significantly more postoperative MMEs and more opioid scripts (ie, requested more refills) than those without MHD. This is despite preoperative education on postoperative pain expectations and limiting opioid use. Our findings support our hypothesis and emphasize the clinical importance of recognizing mental health disease while navigating postoperative pain control expectations. Given the rising prevalence of mental health disorders nationwide, considering the effect of these comorbidities on postoperative pain in RCR, TSA, and rTSA patients will be essential to enhance preoperative and postoperative counseling and management by orthopedic surgeons. We further recommend a multidisciplinary approach to help manage pain in these patients.

The Effects of Pre-existing Mood Disorders on Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature to evaluate the effect of pre-existing mood disorders on patient-reported outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).

METHODS

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases. Only studies which grouped as either having a pre-existing mood disorder (namely anxiety and/or depression) or not and evaluated patient-reported outcomes following ARCR procedures were considered for inclusion. Meta-analysis was performed on outcomes using RevMan, with a p-value <0.05 being deemed statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our search found 8 studies including 1,166 shoulders (58.9% males), with an average age of 57.7 ± 3.2 years (21-81) and mean follow-up of 20.8 ± 16.7 months (3-77) which met our inclusion criteria. There were a total of 262 patients (22.5%; mean age 59.9 ± 1.4 years) with pre-existing anxiety and/or depression and 904 patients (77.5%; mean age 59.7 ± 1.7 years) in the control group who underwent ARCR, respectively. Meta-analysis found significantly lower American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores as well as Simple Shoulder Test scores in patients with pre-existing anxiety and/or depression when compared with a control (mean difference [MD] -7.92 [-9.45, -6.40], p < 0.0001, I2 = 0%; MD -1.56 [-2.54, -0.59], p = 0.002, I2 = 80%, respectively) In addition, meta-analysis demonstrated significantly higher Visual Analog Scale scores for pain in patients with pre-existing anxiety and/or depression when compared with a control (MD 0.70 [0.02, 1.38], p = 0.04, I2 = 71%). Furthermore, meta-analysis performed found that ARCR resulted in significant changes in the rates of reported anxiety and/or depression in patients with pre-existing anxiety and/or depression (MD 4.06[-2.47, 6.68], p < 0.0001, I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Our review found that patients with pre-existing mood disorders were significantly more likely to report higher rates of postoperative pain and poorer functional outcomes following ARCR procedures, when compared with controls without mood disorders. Therefore, the presence of pre-existing anxiety and/or depression warrants consideration in the management paradigm for patients with rotator cuff tears. More optimistically, however, ARCR resulted in significant improvements in anxiety and/or depressive symptoms postoperatively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; systematic review of retrospective comparative studies. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Prevalence and Predictors of Postoperative Depression and Anxiety After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

Preoperative mood disorders influence postoperative outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), but the prevalence and risk factors associated with postoperative depression/anxiety development remain unknown. The purposes of this study were to quantify the prevalence of postoperative diagnoses of depression or anxiety following ACLR in patients under the age of 25 and assess the interplay between patient sex and ACL reoperation on the prevalence of a depression or anxiety diagnosis following ACLR.

METHODS

ACLR patients under the age of 25 years old were identified in the Truven Healthcare Marketscan database. Patients with incomplete coverage +/- one year of the index surgical procedure were excluded. Patients were categorized by the presence of preoperative, postoperative, or no depression/anxiety using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes. We compared patient demographics and reoperation rates following the index ACLR between the depression and anxiety categories. Additionally, logistic regression was fit to assess the interaction between sex and either ipsilateral or contralateral ACL surgery on postoperative depression/anxiety diagnosis.

RESULTS

Of the 42,174 patients, 10.7% had a new depression/anxiety diagnosis after ACLR. Postoperative depression/anxiety was nearly twice as prevalent for females (F: 14.4%, M: 7.6%) despite having similar rates of secondary ACLR (F: 15.5%, M: 13.0%). Those with postoperative depression/anxiety had a considerably greater prevalence of reoperation (18.8%) than those without depression/anxiety (13.7%) and those with pre-existing preoperative depression/anxiety (12.9%). Sex and reoperation were independently associated with postoperative depression/anxiety diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Female sex and secondary ACL surgery are independently associated with an increased prevalence of postoperative depression/anxiety. Nearly one in seven young females are diagnosed with depression/anxiety after ACLR. Similarly, a greater proportion of patients who suffer a secondary ACL surgery are subsequently diagnosed with depression/anxiety. The orthopedic community must be cognizant of the increased risk of postoperative depression/anxiety for females and those who suffer a secondary ACL surgery, and screening for depression/anxiety in these at-risk populations with referrals to mental health professionals may be warranted.

Central sensitization syndrome in patients with rotator cuff tear: prevalence and associated factors

INTRODUCTION

A significant number of rotator cuff tear (RCT) patients developed chronic shoulder pain that did not correspond to physiological changes. Central sensitization syndrome (CSS) is a neurophysiological adaptation process that can result in hypersensitivity to peripheral stimuli. Although there is evidence of an association between CSS and musculoskeletal problems, no studies have focused on the association between CSS and RCT. The primary purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of CSS in patients with RCT. The secondary purpose was to document the associated conditions and comorbidity that were associated with the CSS.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of patients with RCT who completed the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI). Patients with score of ≥ 40/100 were considered positive for CSS. Demographic and clinical data and CSI results were collected to analyze the prevalence and associated factors of CSS in RCT patients.

RESULTS

A total of 404 RCT patients were included, and the CSS prevalence was 39.4%. Compared to the non-CSS group, the CSS group had an odds ratio of 4.13 (95% CI, 2.70-6.32; p＜0.001) for ages 51-60, 3.07 (95% CI, 2.00-4.69; p＜0.001) for symptoms lasting more than 6 months, 6.08 (95% CI, 3.90-9.47; p＜0.001) for nonphysical laborers, 3.69 (95%CI, 2.42-5.61; p＜0.001) for long head of biceps (LHB) abnormality, 2.93 (95% CI, 1.93-4.45; p＜0.001) for concurrent shoulder stiffness, 4.82 (95% CI, 2.55-9.10; p＜0.001) for anxiety or panic episodes, and 2.11 (95% CI, 1.12, 4.00; p＜0.001) for depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of CSS in patients with RCT was relatively high at 39.4%. The CSS was associated with higher age, female gender, and clinical findings of symptoms lasting over six months, nonphysical laborers, abnormal LHB, concurrent shoulder stiffness, anxiety, and depression.

What Are Orthopaedic Patients' and Clinical Team Members' Perspectives Regarding Whether and How to Address Mental Health in the Orthopaedic Care Setting? A Qualitative Investigation of Patients With Neck or Back Pain

BACKGROUND

Across virtually all orthopaedic subspecialties, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and unhelpful thinking are associated with worse patient-reported satisfaction with orthopaedic treatment and increased postoperative complications. In the orthopaedic community, there is growing interest in patients' mental health in the orthopaedic care setting, but addressing mental health is still not a focus of orthopaedic clinical training. There is a persistent awareness gap about how to address mental health in orthopaedic care in a manner that is simultaneously feasible in a busy orthopaedic practice and acceptable to patients who are presenting for treatment of a musculoskeletal condition.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) What are orthopaedic patients' and clinical team members' current perceptions and motivators regarding addressing mental health as part of orthopaedic care? (2) What barriers do patients and clinicians face regarding addressing mental health as part of orthopaedic care? (3) What are facilitators for patients and clinicians related to addressing mental health as part of orthopaedic care? (4) What are practical, acceptable implementation strategies to facilitate addressing mental health as part of orthopaedic care?

METHODS

This was a single-center, qualitative study conducted from January through May 2022 in the orthopaedic department of a large, urban, tertiary care academic medical center. Semistructured interviews were conducted with members of two stakeholder groups: orthopaedic patients and orthopaedic clinical team members. We interviewed 30 adult patients (of 85 patients who were eligible and approached) who had presented to our orthopaedic department for management of neck or back pain lasting for 3 or more months. By prescreening clinic schedules, patients were purposively sampled to include representatives from varied sociodemographic backgrounds and with a range of severity of self-reported symptoms of depression and anxiety (from none to severe on the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Depression and Anxiety measures) (mean age 59 ± 14 years, 70% [21 of 30] women, 60% [18 of 30] White, median pain duration 3.3 [IQR 1.8 to 10] years). We also interviewed 22 orthopaedic clinicians and clinical support staff members (of 106 team members who were eligible and 25 who were approached). Team members were purposively sampled to include representatives from the full range of adult orthopaedic subspecialties and early-, mid-, and late-career physicians (11 of 22 were women, 16 of 22 were White, and 13 of 22 were orthopaedic surgeons). Interviews were conducted in person or via secure video conferencing by trained qualitative researchers. The interview guides were developed using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior model of behavior change. Two study team members used the interview transcripts for coding and thematic analysis, and interviews with additional participants from each stakeholder group continued until two study team members independently determined that thematic saturation of the components of the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior model had been reached. Each participant statement was coded as a perception, motivator, barrier, facilitator, or implementation strategy, and inductive coding was used to identify themes in each category.

RESULTS

In contrast to the perceptions of some orthopaedic clinicians, most patients with orthopaedic conditions expressed they would like their mental well-being to be acknowledged, if not addressed, as part of a thoughtful orthopaedic care plan. Motivation to address mental health was expressed the most strongly among orthopaedic clinical team members who were aware of high-quality evidence that demonstrated a negative impact of symptoms of depression and anxiety on metrics for which they are publicly monitored or those who perceived that addressing patients' mental health would improve their own quality of life. Barriers described by patients with orthopaedic conditions that were related to addressing mental health in the context of orthopaedic care included clinical team members' use of select stigmatizing words and perceived lack of integration between responses to mental health screening measures and the rest of the orthopaedic care encounter. Orthopaedic clinical team members commonly cited the following barriers: lack of available mental health resources they can refer patients to, uncertainty regarding the appropriateness for them to discuss mental health, and time pressure and lack of expertise or comfort in discussing mental health. Facilitators identified by orthopaedic clinical teams and patients to address mental health in the context of orthopaedic care included the development of efficient, adaptable processes to deliver mental health interventions that preferably avoid wasted paper resources; initiation of mental health-related discussion by an orthopaedic clinical team member in a compassionate, relevant context after rapport with the patient has been established; and the availability of a variety of affordable, accessible mental health interventions to meet patients' varied needs and preferences. Practical implementation strategies identified as suitable in the orthopaedic setting to increase appropriate attention to patients' mental health included training orthopaedic clinical teams, establishing a department or institution "mental health champion," and integrating an automated screening question into clinical workflow to assess patients' interest in receiving mental health-related information.

CONCLUSION

Orthopaedic patients want their mental health to be acknowledged as part of a holistic orthopaedic care plan. Although organization-wide initiatives can address mental health systematically, a key facilitator to success is for orthopaedic clinicians to initiate compassionate, even if brief, conversations with their patients regarding the interconnectedness of mental health and musculoskeletal health. Given the unique challenges to addressing mental health in the orthopaedic care setting, additional research should consider use of a hybrid effectiveness-implementation design to identify effective methods of addressing mental health that are feasible and appropriate for this clinical setting.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Orthopaedic clinicians who have had negative experiences attempting to address mental health with their patients should be encouraged to keep trying. Our results suggest they should feel empowered that most patients want to address mental health in the orthopaedic care setting, and even brief conversations using nonstigmatizing language can be a valuable component of an orthopaedic treatment plan.

Multi-stakeholder perspectives regarding preferred modalities for mental health intervention delivered in the orthopedic clinic: a qualitative analysis

BACKGROUND

Although depressive and anxious symptoms negatively impact musculoskeletal health and orthopedic outcomes, a gap remains in identifying modalities through which mental health intervention can realistically be delivered during orthopedic care. The purpose of this study was to understand orthopedic stakeholders' perceptions regarding the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of digital, printed, and in-person intervention modalities to address mental health as part of orthopedic care.

METHODS

This single-center, qualitative study was conducted within a tertiary care orthopedic department. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between January and May 2022. Two stakeholder groups were interviewed using a purposive sampling approach until thematic saturation was reached. The first group included adult orthopedic patients who presented for management of ≥ 3 months of neck or back pain. The second group included early, mid, and late career orthopedic clinicians and support staff members. Stakeholders' interview responses were analyzed using deductive and inductive coding approaches followed by thematic analysis. Patients also performed usability testing of one digital and one printed mental health intervention.

RESULTS

Patients included 30 adults out of 85 approached (mean (SD) age 59 [14] years, 21 (70%) women, 12 (40%) non-White). Clinical team stakeholders included 22 orthopedic clinicians and support staff members out of 25 approached (11 (50%) women, 6 (27%) non-White). Clinical team members perceived a digital mental health intervention to be feasible and scalable to implement, and many patients appreciated that the digital modality offered privacy, immediate access to resources, and the ability to engage during non-business hours. However, stakeholders also expressed that a printed mental health resource is still necessary to meet the needs of patients who prefer and/or can only engage with tangible, rather than digital, mental health resources. Many clinical team members expressed skepticism regarding the current feasibility of scalably incorporating in-person support from a mental health specialist into orthopedic care.

CONCLUSIONS

Although digital intervention offers implementation-related advantages over printed and in-person mental health interventions, a subset of often underserved patients will not currently be reached using exclusively digital intervention. Future research should work to identify combinations of effective mental health interventions that provide equitable access for orthopedic patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.

What is the Association Between Clinically Diagnosed Psychiatric Illness and Total Joint Arthroplasty? A Systematic Review Evaluating Outcomes, Healthcare Use, and Patient-reported Outcome Measures

BACKGROUND

Studies evaluating the effects of a psychiatric illness on orthopaedic surgical outcomes have yielded mixed results. Because awareness of patient comorbid mental health disorders has become increasingly important to tailor treatment plans, the aim of our systematic review was to present the findings of all studies reporting on the association between clinically diagnosed psychiatric illnesses and total joint arthroplasty (TJA) outcomes and evaluate the quality of evidence to provide a comprehensive summary.

QUESTION/PURPOSE

Is there a consistently reported association between comorbid psychiatric illness and (1) complication risk, (2) readmission rates, (3) healthcare use and discharge disposition, and (4) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after TJA?

METHODS

The PubMed, EBSCO host, Medline, and Google Scholar electronic databases were searched on April 9, 2022, to identify all studies that evaluated outcomes after TJA in patients with a comorbid clinically diagnosed mental health disorder between January 1, 2000, and April 1, 2022. Studies were included if the full-text article was available in English, reported on primary TJA outcomes in patients with clinically diagnosed mental health disorders, included patients undergoing TJA without a psychiatric illness for comparison, and had a minimum follow-up time of 30 days for evaluating readmission rates, 90 days for other perioperative outcomes such as length of stay and complications, and 1-year minimum follow-up if assessing PROMs. Studies that used a mental health screening examination instead of clinical diagnoses were excluded to isolate for verified psychiatric illnesses. Additionally, systematic reviews, case reports, duplicate studies between the databases, and gray literature were excluded. Twenty-one studies were included in our final analysis comprising 31,023,713 patients with a mean age range of 57 to 69 years. Mental health diagnoses included depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major personality disorder, and psychosis as well as concomitant mental disorders. Two reviewers independently evaluated the quality of included studies using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) tool. The mean MINORS score was 19.5 ± 0.91 of 24, with higher scores representing better study quality. All the articles included were retrospective, comparative studies. Given the heterogeneity of the included studies, a meta-analysis was not performed, and results are instead presented descriptively.

RESULTS

Patients with schizophrenia were consistently reported to have higher odds of medical and surgical complications than patients without psychiatric illness, particularly anemia and respiratory complications. Among studies with the largest sample sizes, patients with depression alone or depression and anxiety had slightly higher odds of complications. Most studies identified higher odds of readmission among patients with depression, schizophrenia, and severe mental illness after TJA. However, for anxiety, there was no difference in readmission rates compared with patients without psychiatric illness. Slightly higher odds of emergency department visits were reported for patients with depression, anxiety, concomitant depression and anxiety, and severe mental illness across studies. When evaluating healthcare use, articles with the largest sample sizes reporting on depression and length of stay or discharge disposition found modestly longer length of stay and greater odds of nonhome discharge among patients with depression. Although several studies reported anxiety was associated with slightly increased total costs of hospitalization, the most robust studies reported no difference or slightly shorter average length of stay. However, the included studies only reported partial economic analyses of cost, leading to relatively superficial evidence. Patients with schizophrenia had a slightly longer length of stay and modestly lower odds of home discharge and cost. Likewise, patients with concomitant depression and anxiety had a slightly longer average length of stay, according to the two articles reporting on more than 1000 patients. Lastly, PROM scores were worse in patients with depression at a minimum follow-up of 1 year after TJA. For anxiety, there was no difference in improvement compared with patients without mental illness.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review found that individuals with psychiatric illness had an increased risk of postoperative complications, increased length of stay, higher costs, less frequent home discharge, and worse PROM scores after TJA. These findings encourage inclusion of comorbid psychiatric illness when risk-stratifying patients. Attention should focus on perioperative interventions to minimize the risk of thromboembolic events, anemia, bleeding, and respiratory complications as well as adequate pain management with drugs that do not exacerbate the likelihood of these adverse events to minimize emergency department visits and readmissions. Future studies are needed to compare patients with concomitant psychiatric illnesses such as depression and anxiety with patients with either diagnosis in isolation, instead of only comparing patients with concomitant diagnoses with patients without any psychiatric illnesses. Similarly, the results of targeted interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy are needed to understand how orthopaedic surgeons might improve the quality of care for patients with a comorbid psychiatric illness.

Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms Correlated to Patient-Reported Outcome Measures after Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Study in the Perioperative Period

Anxiety and depressive symptoms adversely affect surgical outcomes in patients with rotator cuff tear (RCT) undergoing surgical repair. Patients without a diagnosis of mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, before rotator cuff repair (RCR) can be considered an optimal candidate for surgery. The objective of this prospective observational study was to evaluate the relationship between anxiety and depressive symptoms, using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) as an assessment tool, and patient-reported outcome measures in RCT after repair surgery. This study included patients with RCT undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR). Forty-three patients were included who had completed the HADS, Constant Murley Score (CMS), and Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36) questionnaires before surgery and in the postoperative follow-up, at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The Friedman test showed that there were statistically significant changes in the different times point for HADS (p < 0.001), anxiety subscale of HADS, i.e., HADS-A (p < 0.001), depression subscale of HADS, i.e., HADS-D (p < 0.001), CMS (p < 0.001), and SF-36 (p < 0.001). The average scores of HADS, HADS-A, and HADS-D improved at each follow-up, showing improvement in discomfort. From the third month after surgery, there was an improvement in anxiety and depression disorders related to improved quality of life, functionality, and pain perception. The trend remained stable until the sixth month of follow up. This study shows that anxiety and depressive symptoms in RCT patients are significantly reduced after RCR with subsequent important improvements in terms of functionality, ability to carry out activities of daily living, perceived pain, and quality of life.

Variation in opioid filling after same-day breast surgery in Ontario, Canada: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain management practices in breast surgery are variable, with recent evidence that approaches for minimizing or sparing opioids can be successfully implemented. We describe opioid filling and predictors of higher doses in patients undergoing same-day breast surgery in Ontario, Canada.

METHODS

In this retrospective population-based cohort study, we used linked administrative health data to identify patients aged 18 years or older who underwent same-day breast surgery from 2012 to 2020. We categorized procedure types by increasing invasiveness of surgery: partial, with or without axillary intervention (P ± axilla); total, with or without axillary intervention (T ± axilla); radical, with or without axillary intervention (R ± axilla); and bilateral. The primary outcome was filling an opioid prescription within 7 or fewer days after surgery. Secondary outcomes were total oral morphine equivalents (OMEs) filled (mg, median and interquartile range [IQR]) and filling more than 1 prescription within 7 or fewer days after surgery. We estimated associations (adjusted risk ratios [RRs] and 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) between study variables and outcomes in multivariable models. We used a random intercept for each unique prescriber to account for provider-level clustering.

RESULTS

Of the 84 369 patients who underwent same-day breast surgery, 72% (n = 60 620) filled an opioid prescription. Median OMEs filled increased with invasiveness (P ± axilla = 135 [IQR 90-180] mg; T ± axilla = 135 [IQR 100-200] mg; R ± axilla = 150 [IQR 113-225] mg, bilateral surgery = 150 [IQR 113-225] mg; p < 0.0001). Factors associated with filling more than 1 opioid prescription were age 30-59 years (v. age 18-29 yr), increased invasiveness (RR 1.98, 95% CI 1.70-2.30 bilateral v. P ± axilla), Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 2 versus 0-1 (RR 1.50, 95% CI 1.34-1.69) and malignancy (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.26-1.53).

INTERPRETATION

Most patients undergoing same-day breast surgery fill an opioid prescription within 7 days. Efforts are needed to identify patient groups where opioids may be successfully minimized or eliminated.

Psychosocial factors play a greater role in preoperative symptoms for patients with atraumatic shoulder instability: data from the MOON-Shoulder Instability group

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that psychosocial factors and comorbid depression are associated with worse preoperative baseline measures, clinical outcomes, and recovery in patients undergoing shoulder surgery. It is unknown whether this potential link would differ between those with traumatic vs. atraumatic shoulder instability, as symptoms may persist longer in atraumatic instability prior to surgical intervention. The purpose of this study was to determine if psychosocial factors and/or comorbid depression more heavily influence preoperative symptoms for patients with traumatic vs. atraumatic shoulder instability.

METHODS

Prospective baseline data from 1552 patients in the Multicenter Orthopaedic Outcomes Network (MOON) Shoulder Instability cohort were analyzed based on mechanism of injury while controlling for age, sex, and direction of instability. Multivariable linear regressions were performed to determine whether psychological factors (RAND 36 Mental Component Score [MCS], depression diagnosis, Personality Assessment Screener-22) were predictive of preoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) scores in the atraumatic group. The same model was repeated for the traumatic instability group, and the model fit was compared between groups, with P < .05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Female sex and lower MCS were significantly associated with worse preoperative ASES and WOSI scores for the group with atraumatic instability (ASES R2 = 0.15, P < .001; WOSI R2 = 0.17, P < .001). The same model performed significantly worse (P < .05) for both ASES and WOSI scores in the group with traumatic instability (ASES R2 = 0.07, WOSI R2 = 0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Worse preoperative psychosocial factors were found to be more strongly associated with shoulder-related pain and function for patients with atraumatic instability. Across multiple orthopedic conditions, depression and emotional well-being have been associated with worse preoperative symptoms and inferior postoperative patient-reported outcomes. Despite the stronger and significant association in atraumatic patients, worse psychosocial factors did not have as large an impact as has been seen in other, more chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis or rotator cuff tears. In addition to medically optimizing patients prior to surgery, the current findings identify a subset of shoulder instability patients that may benefit from a behavioral health intervention either prior to surgery or early in the postoperative period to potentially improve postoperative outcomes.

Pre-existing Mental Health Diagnoses Are Associated With Higher Rates of Postoperative Complications, Readmissions, and Reoperations Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

PURPOSE

To investigate the association between preoperative mental health disorders and postoperative complications, readmissions, and ipsilateral revision procedures among patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study from 2010 to 2020 was performed using the PearlDiver database. Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases codes were used to compare patients with and without mental health disorders who underwent arthroscopic RCR. Mental health disorders evaluated in this study include depressive disorder, major depressive disorder, major depressive affective disorder, bipolar disorder, dysthymic disorder, adjustment disorder, separation anxiety disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Patients were matched at a 1:1 ratio based on age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, body mass index, and tobacco use. Rates of complications and subsequent surgeries were compared between patients with and without a preoperative diagnosis of a mental health disorder.

RESULTS

The 1-year preoperative prevalence of a mental health disorder from 2010 to 2020 was 14.6%. After 1:1 matching, patients with a mental health disorder who underwent arthroscopic RCR were nearly twice as likely to undergo a revision procedure (odds ratio 1.94, 95% confidence interval 1.76-2.14, P < .001) and more than twice as likely to experience conversion to shoulder arthroplasty (odds ratio 2.29, 95% confidence interval 1.88-2.80, P < .001) within 2 years of initial arthroscopy when compared with patients without a mental disorder. Patients with a mental disorder also experienced increased risk for 90-day readmission (1.9% vs 0%, P < .001) as well as multiple postoperative medical complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with pre-existing mental health diagnoses experience increased rates of 90-day postoperative complications and readmissions following arthroscopic RCR. In addition, patients with mental health diagnoses are more likely to undergo revision repair and conversion to shoulder arthroplasty within 2 years of the index procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Multi-stakeholder perspectives regarding preferred modalities for mental health intervention delivered in the orthopedic clinic: A qualitative analysis

BACKGROUND

Although depressive and anxious symptoms negatively impact musculoskeletal health and orthopedic outcomes, a gap remains in identifying modalities through which mental health intervention can realistically be delivered during orthopedic care. The purpose of this study was to understand orthopedic stakeholders' perspectives regarding the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of digital, printed, and in-person intervention modalities to address mental health as part of orthopedic care.

METHODS

This single-center, qualitative study was conducted within the orthopedic department of a tertiary care center. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between January and May 2022. Two stakeholder groups were interviewed using a purposive sampling approach until thematic saturation was reached. The first group included adult orthopedic patients who presented for management of ≥ 3 months of neck or back pain. The second group included early, mid, and late career orthopedic clinicians and support staff members. Stakeholders' interview responses were analyzed using deductive and inductive coding approaches followed by thematic analysis. Patients also performed usability testing of one digital and one printed mental health intervention.

RESULTS

Patients included 30 adults out of 85 approached (mean (SD) age 59 (14) years, 21 (70%) women, 12 (40%) non-White). Clinical team stakeholders included 22 orthopedic clinicians and support staff members out of 25 approached (11 (50%) women, 6 (27%) non-White). Clinical team members perceived a digital mental health intervention to be feasible and scalable to implement, and many patients appreciated that the digital modality offered privacy, immediate access to resources, and the ability to engage during non-business hours. However, stakeholders also expressed that a printed mental health resource is still necessary to meet the needs of patients who prefer and/or can only engage with tangible, rather than digital, mental health resources. Many clinical team members expressed skepticism regarding the current feasibility of scalably incorporating in-person mental health support into orthopedic care.

CONCLUSIONS

Although digital intervention offers implementation-related advantages over printed and in-person mental health interventions, a subset of often underserved patients will not currently be reached using exclusively digital intervention. Future research should work to identify combinations of effective mental health interventions that provide equitable access for orthopedic patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable.

Cost measurement in value-based healthcare: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Although value-based healthcare (VBHC) views accurate cost information to be crucial in the pursuit of value, little is known about how the costs of care should be measured. The aim of this review is to identify how costs are currently measured in VBHC, and which cost measurement methods can facilitate VBHC or value-based decision making.

DESIGN

Two reviewers systematically search the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, EBSCOhost and Web of Science databases for publications up to 1 January 2022 and follow Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify relevant studies for further analysis.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies should measure the costs of an intervention, treatment or care path and label the study as 'value based'. An inductive qualitative approach was used to identify studies that adopted management accounting techniques to identify if or how cost information facilitated VBHC by aiding decision-making.

RESULTS

We identified 1930 studies, of which 215 measured costs in a VBHC setting. Half of these studies measured hospital costs (110, 51.2%) and the rest relied on reimbursement amounts. Sophisticated costing methods that allocate both direct and indirect costs to care paths were seen as able to provide valuable managerial information by facilitating care path adjustments (39), benchmarking (38), the identification of cost drivers (47) and the measurement of total costs or cost savings (26). We found three best practices that were key to success in cost measurement: process mapping (33), expert input (17) and observations (24).

CONCLUSIONS

Cost information can facilitate VBHC. Time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) is viewed as the best method although its ability to inform decision-making depends on how it is implemented. While costing short, or partial, care paths and surgical episodes produces accurate cost information, it provides only limited decision-making information. Practitioners are advised to focus on costing full care cycles and to consider both direct and indirect costs through TDABC.

Preoperative Opioid Use Is Associated With Inferior Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Scores Following Rotator Cuff Repair

PURPOSE

To determine the influence of preoperative opioid use on Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores pre- and postoperatively in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR).

METHODS

A retrospective review of all RCR patients aged >18 years old was performed. PROMIS pain interference ("PROMIS PI"), upper extremity function ("PROMIS UE"), and depression ("PROMIS D") scores, were reviewed. These measures were collected at preoperative, 6-month, and 1-year postoperative time points. A prescription drug-monitoring program was queried to track opioid prescriptions. Patients were categorized as chronic users, acute users, and nonusers based on prescriptions filled. Comparison of means were carried out using analysis of variance and least squares means. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 184 patients who underwent RCR were included. Preoperatively, nonusers (n = 92) had superior PROMIS UE (30.6 vs 28.9 vs 26.1; P < .05) and PI scores (61.5 vs 64.9 vs 65.3; P < .001) compared with acute users (n = 65) and chronic users (n = 27), respectively. At 6 months postoperatively; nonusers demonstrated significantly greater PROMIS UE (41.7 vs 35.6 vs. 33.5; P < .001), lower PROMIS D (41.6 vs 45.8 vs 51.1; P < .001), and lower PROMIS PI scores (50.7 vs 56.3 vs 58.1; P < .01) when compared with acute and chronic users, respectively. Nonusers had lower PROMIS PI (47.9 vs 54.3 vs 57.4; P < .0001) and PROMIS D (41.6 vs 48.3 vs 49.2; P = .0002) scores compared with acute and chronic users at 1-year postoperatively. Nonusers experienced a significantly greater magnitude of improvement in PROMIS D 6 months postoperatively compared with chronic opioid users (-5.9 vs 0.0; P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing RCR demonstrated superior PROMIS scores pre- and postoperatively if they did not use opioids within 3 months before surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective comparative trial.

Application of risk assessment tools to predict opioid usage after shoulder surgery

Background

Currently 128 people die daily from opioid-related overdoses in the United States. This burden has instigated a search for viable means to guide postoperative prescription decision-making. The Opioid Risk Tool (ORT) and the Screener and Opioid Assessment for Patient with Pain (SOAPP) are validated risk assessment tools to predict opioid usage in high-risk populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of these opioid risk assessments and pain intensity scores, including the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), to predict postoperative opioid use and dependence in shoulder surgery.

Methods

A retrospective review of 81 patients who underwent shoulder surgery and completed 3 preoperative risk and pain assessments within a single hospital system from 2018 to 2020 was performed. Demographic variables and ORT-O, SOAPP-R (the revised version of the SOAPP assessment), and PROMIS 3a scores were recorded from preoperative assessments. Opioid prescriptions were recorded from Electronic-Florida Online Reporting of Controlled Substances Evaluation. Dependence was defined as opioid prescriptions at or greater than 3 months after surgery. Risk assessment scores were compared and tested against postoperative opioid prescriptions using statistical analyses and logistic regression modeling.

Results

In the cohort, there were 36 female and 45 male patients with an average age of 64.5 years and body mass index of 28.0. Preoperatively, the average pain score was 6.2, and 7.8% of patients reported prolonged preoperative narcotics use. The average ORT-O score was 3.0, with 35.8% of patients defined as either medium or high risk, and the average PROMIS pain intensity preoperatively was 10.8. Neither the ORT-O nor the PROMIS pain score were good predictors of postoperative opioid dependence (area under curve = 0.39 and 0.43, respectively). The SOAPP-R performed slightly better (area under curve = 0.70) and was the only assessment with significantly different mean scores between patients with postoperative opioid dependence and those without (33.4 and 24.5, respectively, P = .049) and a moderate correlation to postoperative total morphine equivalents (R = 0.46, P = .007).

Conclusion

With recent focus on preoperative risk assessments to predict postoperative opioid use and dependence, it is important to understand how well these tools work when applied to orthopedic patients. While the ORT may be helpful in other fields, it does not seem to be a strong predictor of postoperative opioid use or dependence in patients undergoing various types of shoulder surgery. Future studies are needed to explore the utility of the SOAPP-R in a larger sample and identify tools applicable to the orthopedic population to assist surgeons in screening at-risk patients.

Muscle degeneration in chronic massive rotator cuff tears of the shoulder: Addressing the real problem using a graphene matrix

Massive rotator cuff tears (MRCTs) of the shoulder cause disability and pain among the adult population. In chronic injuries, the tendon retraction and subsequently the loss of mechanical load lead to muscle atrophy, fat accumulation, and fibrosis formation over time. The intrinsic repair mechanism of muscle and the successful repair of the torn tendon cannot reverse the muscle degeneration following MRCTs. To address these limitations, we developed an electroconductive matrix by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) into aligned poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibers. This study aimed to understand 1) the effects of GnP matrices on muscle regeneration and inhibition of fat formation in vitro and 2) the ability of GnP matrices to reverse muscle degenerative changes in vivo following an MRCT. The GnP matrix significantly increased myotube formation, which can be attributed to enhanced intracellular calcium ions in myoblasts. Moreover, the GnP matrix suppressed adipogenesis in adipose-derived stem cells. These results supported the clinical effects of the GnP matrix on reducing fat accumulation and muscle atrophy. The histological evaluation showed the potential of the GnP matrix to reverse muscle atrophy, fat accumulation, and fibrosis in both supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles at 24 and 32 wk after the chronic MRCTs of the rat shoulder. The pathological evaluation of internal organs confirmed the long-term biocompatibility of the GnP matrix. We found that reversing muscle degenerative changes improved the morphology and tensile properties of the tendon compared with current surgical techniques. The long-term biocompatibility and the ability of the GnP matrix to treat muscle degeneration are promising for the realization of MRCT healing and regeneration.

Effects of Preexisting Depression and Anxiety on Postoperative Outcomes following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Background

Rotator cuff repairs (RCRs) are one of the most commonly performed shoulder surgeries in the United States. Psychological health has been shown to influence postoperative outcomes in orthopedic procedures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between depression and anxiety (DA) and psychotropic medication and postoperative outcomes following RCR.

Methods

A single institution retrospective observational cohort study of 816 patients undergoing arthroscopic RCR from January 2014 to October 2020 was conducted. Univariate statistics were used to assess differences in demographics, operative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes; multivariate analysis was used to evaluate risk factors for postoperative complications.

Results

Patients with DA were more likely to have a higher first (3.60 vs. 3.00, P = .004) and last (1.23 vs. 0.96, P = .042) postoperative pain scores, lower first (18.67 vs. 21.85, P = .008) and last (61.87 vs. 64.71, P = .014) Upper Extremity Functional Score (UEFS), more likely to experience an emergency department visit postoperatively (9.1 vs. 5.0%, P = .028), have a symptomatic recurrent tear (8.2 vs. 3.3%, P = .003), and persistent pain (4.3 vs. 1.2%, P = .011). After controlling for age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, diabetes, smoking, coronary artery disease, asthma, hypertension, psychotropic medication and DA, having DA at the time of surgery was independently predictive of any complication (odds ratio, 2.033; P = .028) and persistent pain (odds ratio, 8.232; P ≤ .001). Patients with and without DA showed significant improvement in postoperative pain and UEFS from the first to the last measurement (P < .001).

Conclusion

DA is not a deterrent for RCR but targeted interventions may be needed to decrease the occurrence of complications.

Mood Disorders Are Associated with Increased Perioperative Opioid Usage and Health Care Costs in Patients Undergoing Knee Cartilage Restoration Procedure

OBJECTIVE

To identify the prevalence of mood disorder diagnoses in patients undergoing cartilage transplantation procedures and determine the relationship between mood disorders, opioid usage, and postoperative health care costs.

DESIGN

Patients with current procedural terminology (CPT) codes for osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT), osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA), and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) were identified in the Truven Health Marketscan database (January 2009-September 2014). Patients were grouped based on having a preoperative mood disorder diagnosis (preMDD). Preoperative opioids, postoperative opioids ≥90 days, and health care costs within the year postoperative were compared for those with and without mood disorders. Costs were analyzed, adjusting for preoperative cost, sex, age, and opioid usage, for those with and without mood disorders.

RESULTS

A total of 3,682 patients were analyzed (ACI: 690, OAT: 1,294, OCA: 1,698). A quarter of patients had preMDD (ACI: 25.4%, OAT: 20.6%, OCA: 22.7%). Postoperative opioid use was more prevalent in preMDD patients (OAT: 37.1% vs. 24.1%, P < 0.001; OCA: 30.4% vs. 24.8%, P = 0.032; ACI: 33.7% vs. 26.2%, P = 0.070) (odds ratio [OR] ranged from 1.29 to 1.86). First-year postoperative log-transformed costs were significantly greater for preMDD patients (ACI: $7,733 vs. $5,689*, P = 0.012; OAT: $5,221 vs. $3,823*, P < 0.001; OCA: $6,973 vs. $3,992*, P < 0.001; *medians reported). The estimated adjusted first postoperative year cost increase for preMDD OCA patients was 41.7% (P < 0.001) and 28.0% for OAT patients (P = 0.034). There was no statistical difference for ACI patients (P = 0.654).

CONCLUSION

Cartilage transplantation patients have a high prevalence of preoperative mood disorders. Opioid use and health care costs were significantly greater for patients with preoperative mood disorder diagnoses.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective therapeutic study.

Editorial Commentary: Opioid Sparing Through Patient Education Programs Is the Future for Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic Surgery to Optimize Outcome

Opioid research in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery has exploded in the last few years. The literature definitively shows that preoperative opioid usage-in so-called opioid exposed, tolerant, and familiar patients-increases postoperative usage, readmission rates, and medical complications, yielding poorer outcome. Strategies to combat the deleterious effects of preoperative opioid use should be used to include ownership and acknowledgment of the problem, adherence to opioid prescribing protocols, and use of a multimodal anesthesia program that can mitigate the adverse effects by limiting abuse and preventing potential poor outcome. Adding patient education programs to change patient modifiable risk factors shows promise while simultaneously optimizing appropriate patient expectations that are linked to increased outcome. Thus, opioid mitigation, sparing, or altogether avoidance through improved education programs and opioid prescribing protocols will likely be the future of sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery to optimize patient outcome.

Increased Prevalence and Associated Costs of Psychiatric Comorbidities in Patients Undergoing Sports Medicine Operative Procedures

PURPOSE

To evaluate the prevalence of preoperatively diagnosed psychiatric comorbidities and the impact of these comorbidities on the healthcare costs of ten common orthopaedic sports medicine procedures.

METHODS

Patients undergoing 10 common sports medicine procedures from 2007 to 2017q1 were identified using the Humana claims database. These procedures included anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction; posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction; medial collateral ligament repair/reconstruction; Achilles repair/reconstruction; Rotator cuff repair; meniscectomy/meniscus repair; hip arthroscopy; arthroscopic shoulder labral repair; patellofemoral instability procedures; and shoulder instability repair. Patients were stratified by preoperative diagnoses of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Cohorts included patients with ≥1 psychiatric comorbidity (psychiatric) versus those without psychiatric comorbidities (no psychiatric). Differences in costs across groups were compared using Mann-Whitney U tests, with significance defined as P < .05. Linear regression analysis was used to assess rates of procedures per year from 2006 to 2016.

RESULTS

In total, 226,402 patients (57.7% male) from 2007 to 2017q1 were assessed. The prevalence of ≥1 psychiatric comorbidity within the entire database was 10.31% (reference) versus 21.21% in those patients undergoing the 10 investigated procedures. Patients with psychiatric comorbidity most frequently underwent rotator cuff repair (28%), hip labral repair (26.3%) and meniscectomy/meniscus repair (25.0%%) had ≥1 psychiatric comorbidity. Compared with the no psychiatric cohort, diagnosis of ≥1 psychiatric comorbidity was associated with increased health care costs for all 10 sports medicine procedures ($9678.81 vs $6436.20, P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of preoperatively diagnosed psychiatric comorbidities among patients undergoing orthopaedic sports medicine procedures is high. The presence of psychiatric comorbidities preoperatively was associated with increased postoperative costs following all investigated orthopaedic sports medicine procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; retrospective comparative study.

Editorial Commentary: Mental Health Comorbidities Are Associated With Increased Cost, Opioid Use, and Inferior Outcomes After Shoulder Rotator Cuff Repair

In patients undergoing rotator cuff repair (RCR), patient comorbidities including mental health diagnoses of anxiety and depression are very common and are known to adversely affect surgical outcomes. This study highlights the complex interplay of mental health with other important considerations in outcomes following RCR, namely opioid use and health care costs. The extent to which we can mitigate opioid use and health care costs in patients with comorbid mental health disorders undergoing RCR remains unclear but worthy of concerted efforts to improve patient outcomes. Improving recognition of the role of mental health comorbidities in outcomes of RCR will be critical in future efforts to improve preoperative counseling and optimize perioperative management of patients electing RCR.

Reoperation Rates Following Meniscus Transplantation Using the Truven Database

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the (1) reoperation rate and (2) 30-day complication rate in a large insurance database.

METHODS

The Truven Database was queried for subjects that underwent meniscus allograft transplantation (Current Procedural Terminology code 29868) in the outpatient setting with minimal 2-year follow-up. Patients without confirmed laterality and patients that underwent concomitant ligament reconstruction were excluded. Reoperation was defined by ipsilateral knee procedure after the index surgery. The 30-day postoperative complication rates were assessed using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes.

RESULTS

A total of 284 patients (mean age of 26.2 ± 10.4 years; 49.6% females) were included in this study with mean follow up of 43.2 ± 19.2 months. One hundred and sixty-seven subjects (58.8%) undergoing meniscus allograft transplantation underwent reoperation at an average of 11.9 ± 12.2 months postoperatively. There was a low number of subjects that required ipsilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty postoperatively (0.7% and 1.1%, respectively). The overall 30-day complication rate following meniscus allograft transplantation was 1.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing meniscus allograft transplantation have a 58.8% reoperation rate at final follow up with low (1.4%) 30-day complication rates in a large insurance database.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.