Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) markedly increased mortality in patients with hip fracture - A systematic review and meta-analysis

Comparison of Sugammadex Versus Neostigmine for Postoperative Outcomes in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients Undergoing Thoracic Surgery: A Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate whether the use of sugammadex was associated with a lower incidence of pulmonary complications than neostigmine in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) undergoing thoracic surgery.

DESIGN

This was a matched cohort study using data from the TriNetX database.

SETTING

Operating room.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients with COVID-19 within 6 weeks before thoracic surgery.

INTERVENTION

The use of sugammadex or neostigmine to reverse muscular blockade.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Outcomes included the incidence of composite pulmonary complications (CPCs) (primary outcome), pneumonia, respiratory failure, need for intensive care, mortality, sepsis, and acute kidney injury at 30-day follow-up. The potential benefits of sugammadex were also assessed at 90-day follow-up. Predictors of pulmonary complications were identified in those receiving sugammadex. After matching, 985 patients were included in each group. At 30 days, the incidence of CPCs (5.69% v 9.75%; odds ratio [OR]: 0.56, p = 0.0009), pneumonia (1.83% v 4.37%; OR: 0.41, p = 0.0016), and respiratory failure (1.42% v 3.25%; OR: 0.43, p = 0.0087) were significantly lower with sugammadex than neostigmine. No differences were found in other 30-day outcomes. Diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were identified as risk factors for pneumonia and respiratory failure. At 90 days, no significant differences were observed, although mortality tended to be lower with sugammadex.

CONCLUSION

In patients with COVID-19 undergoing thoracic surgery, sugammadex was associated with a reduction in 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications compared with neostigmine. However, this finding requires validation in larger, randomized trials.

Proximal femoral fractures in patients with COVID-19 : Pneumonia and admission from a nursing home are the strongest predictors of mortality

BACKGROUND

Proximal femoral fractures are severe injuries in geriatric patients. Additionally, geriatric patients are at a high risk of death due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictors of mortality in geriatric patients with COVID-19 and concurrent proximal femoral fractures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical treatment for proximal femoral fractures and also tested positive for COVID-19 were included. The age, gender, the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score and the admission from a nursing home were considered as variables. The rate of reoperations, the mortality at 3 months and discharge home were evaluated as outcomes.

RESULTS

In this study 46 patients with COVID-19 (female/male 31/15, median age 87.0 years with an interquartile range [IQR] of 9.8 years) met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 32 patients (69.6%) had to be cared for in the intensive care unit and 26 patients (56.5%) had a severe course of COVID-19 with pneumonia. The median length of hospital stay for survivors was 19 (IQR 17.5) days and 4 of the patients (8.7%) required surgical revision. The in-hospital and 3‑month mortality were 40.0% (n = 17) and 43.5% (n = 20), respectively. The factors which influenced the in-hospital and 3‑month mortality rates were admission from a nursing home, the presence of pneumonia (increased the risk of death) and female gender (protective).

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of COVID-19 in patients with proximal femoral fractures has a high mortality. Admission from a nursing home and the presence of pneumonia increased the risk of death, whereas women were at lower risk.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on One-Year Mortality in Geriatric Hip Fracture: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems, necessitating substantial shifts in patient care strategies. The pandemic's onset led to drastic operational changes in hospitals, including reduced bed capacity and staffing levels, which could have further influenced the mortality outcomes for geriatric patients. The study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on 1-year mortality rates of surgically treated geriatric hip fractures.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center cohort study included 346 participants aged 65 and above who underwent surgical treatment for hip fractures. We compared mortality rates between the pre-COVID and COVID eras. Data included demographics, treatment, complications, and COVID-19 status. The independent samples t test and Chi-square tests (or Fisher's exact test) were used for comparisons for era cohorts. Survival probabilities were assessed using Kaplan-Meier, while multivariate analysis identified mortality predictors.

Results

175 patients were included in the pre-COVID era, and 171 patients were included in the COVID era. During the COVID era, the 30-day mortality rate was 11.7% (compared to 13.7% in the pre-COVID era, p = 0.573), and the 1-year mortality rate was 43.9% (compared to 49.1% in the pre-COVID era, p = 0.325). The overall 1-year mortality rate was 46.5%. Patients who underwent surgery within 48 hours had a higher 1-year survival rate (60.5%) compared to those with delayed surgery (51.2%), p = 0.031. Additionally, patients not admitted to the ICU had a higher 1-year survival rate (74.7%) than those who were admitted (44.9%), p < 0.001. 70.1% of the total deaths occurred within the first 90 days.

Conclusion

Elderly patients with hip fractures experienced high mortality rates before and during the pandemic. This study demonstrates that the 1-year mortality rates of geriatric hip fractures were not significantly affected by the pandemic. The findings emphasize the importance of pandemic preparedness and prompt surgeries and attentive ICU care in reducing mortality rates.

Association between anesthesia technique and death after hip fracture repair for patients with COVID-19

PURPOSE

Patients with COVID-19 undergoing hip fracture surgeries have a 30-day mortality of up to 34%. We aimed to evaluate the association between anesthesia technique and 30-day mortality after hip fracture surgery in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS

After ethics approval, we performed a retrospective cohort analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data set from January to December 2021. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 19 yr, laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection within 14 days preoperatively, and hip fracture surgery under general anesthesia (GA) or spinal anesthesia (SA). Exclusion criteria were American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status V, ventilator dependence, international normalized ratio ≥ 1.5, partial thromboplastin time > 35 sec, and platelet count < 80 × 109 L-1. The primary outcome was all-cause 30-day mortality. The adjusted association between anesthetic technique and 30-day mortality was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 23,045 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, 331 patients met the study criteria. The median [interquartile range] age was 82 [74-88] yr, and 32.3% were male. The 30-day mortality rate was 10.0% (33/331) for the cohort (10.7%, 29/272 for GA vs 6.8%, 4/59 for SA; P = 0.51; standardized mean difference, 0.138). The use of SA, compared with GA, was not associated with decreased mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.21 to 1.8; E-value, 2.49).

CONCLUSION

Anesthesia technique was not associated with mortality in patients with COVID-19 undergoing hip fracture surgery. The findings were limited by a small sample size.

STUDY REGISTRATION

www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov (NCT05133648); registered 24 November 2021.

One year later: How outcomes of hip fractures treated during the "first wave" of the COVID-19 pandemic were affected

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 on long-term outcomes in the geriatric hip fracture population. We hypothesize that COVID + geriatric hip fracture patients had worse outcomes at 1-year follow-up. Between February and June 2020, 224 patients > 55 years old treated for a hip fracture were analyzed for demographics, COVID status on admission, hospital quality measures, 30- and 90-day readmission rates, 1-year functional outcomes (as measured by the EuroQol- 5 Dimension [EQ5D-3L] questionnaire), and inpatient, 30-day, and 1-year mortality rates with time to death. Comparative analyses were conducted between COVID + and COVID- patients. Twenty-four patients (11%) were COVID + on admission. No demographic differences were seen between cohorts. COVID + patients experienced a longer length of stay (8.58 ± 6.51 vs. 5.33 ± 3.09, p < 0.01) and higher rates of inpatient (20.83% vs. 1.00%, p < 0.01), 30-day (25.00% vs. 5.00%, p < 0.01), and 1-year mortality (58.33% vs. 18.50%, p < 0.01). There were no differences seen in 30- or 90-day readmission rates, or 1-year functional outcomes. While not significant, COVID + patients had a shorter average time to death post-hospital discharge (56.14 ± 54.31 vs 100.68 ± 62.12, p = 0.171). Pre-vaccine, COVID + geriatric hip fracture patients experienced significantly higher rates of mortality within 1 year post-hospital discharge. However, COVID + patients who did not die experienced a similar return of function by 1-year as the COVID- cohort.

Hip Fracture Care during COVID-19: Evolution through the Pandemic

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this epidemiologic study was to analyze the care provided by our institution to middle-aged and geriatric hip fracture patients throughout the pandemic to examine for any differences compared to pre-pandemic care and across the pandemic stages.

METHODS

Consecutive patients >55 years old treated for hip fractures at our institution between October 2014 and January 2022 were analyzed for demographics, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and vaccination status at admission, injury characteristics, hospital quality measures, and outcomes. Patients were divided into three separate cohorts: Pre-COVID-19 (PRECOV), COVID-19 Pre-Vaccine (PREVAX), and COVID-19 Post-Vaccine (POSTVAX). A sub-analysis removed COVID-19-positive patients across the study period. Comparative analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 2,633 hip fracture patients were included. For the overall cohort, there was no difference in the rate of inpatient deaths between the PRECOV, PREVAX, and POSTVAX cohorts (p=0.278). PRECOV had a significantly lower 30-day mortality rate compared to PREVAX or POSTVAX (p=0.012). Differences in complication rates for surgical site infection, urinary tract infection, and anemia (p<0.01 for all) were seen between cohorts. PRECOV had the longest length of hospital stay (p<0.01). PREVAX patients required more ICU level of care (p<0.01). When removing COVID-19-positive patients, all three cohorts had similar inpatient (p=0.872) and 30-day mortality rates (p=0.130).

CONCLUSION

The care of patients treated for hip fractures did not change throughout the pandemic at our institution. The elevated mortality rate due to the effects of COVID-19 seen in the pre-vaccine cohort decreased over time as the understanding of COVID-19 improved and the vaccine was introduced. We recommend continuation of the same hip fracture care protocols as used pre-pandemic.

The Impact of COVID-19 on the Prevalence, Mortality, and Associated Risk Factors for Mortality in Patients with Hip Fractures: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess (1) the prevalence of COVID-19 in patients with hip fracture; (2) the mortality rate of patients with hip fracture associated with COVID-19; (3) risk factors associated with mortality in patients with hip fracture; and (4) the effects of COVID-19 on surgical outcomes of patients with hip fracture.

DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Patients with hip fractures during COVID-19.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were systematically reviewed. The outcomes included the prevalence of COVID-19, case fatality rate, 30-day mortality, cause of death, risk factors associated with the mortality of patients with hip fracture, time to surgery, surgical time, and length of hospitalization. Risk ratio or weight mean difference with 95% confidence intervals were used to pool the estimates.

RESULTS

A total of 60 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled estimate showed that the prevalence of COVID-19 was 21% in patents with hip fractures. Patients with hip fracture with COVID-19 had an increased 30-day mortality risk compared with those without the infection. The main causes of death were respiratory failure, COVID-19-associated pneumonia, multiorgan failure, and non-COVID-19 pneumonia. The hospitalization was longer in patients with COVID-19 when compared with those without the infection, but was shorter in patients during the pandemic period. The surgery time and time to surgery were not significantly different between patients during or before the pandemic period and in those with or without COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with hip fracture with COVID-19 infection than those without. Patients with COVID-19 had a higher all-cause mortality rate than those without. This information can be used by the medical community to guide the management of patients with hip fracture with COVID-19.

Postoperative mortality in the COVID-positive hip fracture patient, a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The extent to which concomitant COVID-19 infection increases short-term mortality following hip fracture is not fully understood. A systemic review and meta-analysis of COVID-19 positive hip fracture patients (CPHFPs) undergoing surgery was conducted to explore the association of COVID-19 with short-term mortality.

METHODS

Review of the literature identified reports of short-term 30-day postoperative mortality in CPHFPs. For studies including a contemporary control group of COVID-19 negative patients, odds ratios of the association between COVID-19 infection and short-term mortality were calculated. Short-term mortality and the association between COVID-19 infection and short-term mortality were meta-analyzed and stratified by hospital screening type using random effects models.

RESULTS

Seventeen reports were identified. The short-term mortality in CPHFPs was 34% (95% C.I., 30-39%). Short-term mortality differed slightly across studies that screened all patients, 30% (95% C.I., 22-39%), compared to studies that conditionally screened patients, 36% (95% C.I., 31-42%), (P = 0.22). The association between COVID-19 infection and short-term mortality produced an odds ratio of 7.16 (95% C.I., 4.99-10.27), and this was lower for studies that screened all patients, 4.08 (95% C.I., 2.31-7.22), compared to studies that conditionally screened patients, 8.32 (95% C.I., 5.68-12.18), (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

CPHFPs have a short-term mortality rate of 34%. The odds ratio of short-term mortality was significantly higher in studies that screened patients conditionally than in studies that screened all hip fracture patients. This suggests mortality prognostication should consider how COVID-19 infection was identified as asymptomatic patients may fare slightly better.

Outcomes of Reamed Intramedullary Nailing for Lower Extremity Diaphyseal Fractures in COVID-Positive Patients: A Multi-institutional Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

To determine if reamed intramedullary nailing (IMN) of tibial and femoral shaft fractures exacerbated the hypercoagulable state of COVID infection, resulting in increased thromboembolic and pulmonary complications.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Eleven Level I trauma centers.

PATIENTS

From January 1, 2020, to December 1, 2022, 163 patients with orthopaedic trauma and COVID positivity and 36 patients with tibial and femoral shaft fractures were included.

INTERVENTION

Reamed IMN.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence of postoperative thromboembolic and respiratory complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients with a median age of 52 years (range, 18-92 years; interquartile range, 29-72 years) met criteria. There were 21 and 15 patients with femoral and tibial shaft fractures. There were 15 patients sustaining polytrauma; of which, 10 had a new injury severity score of >17. All patients underwent reamed IMN in a median of 1 day (range, 0-12 days; interquartile range = 1-2 days) after injury. Two patients developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and 3 pneumonia. No patients had pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, or died within 30 days.

CONCLUSION

In this multi-institutional review of COVID-positive patients undergoing reamed IMN, there were no thromboembolic events. All patients developing pulmonary complications (ARDS or pneumonia) had baseline chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, were immune compromised, or sustained polytraumatic injuries with new injury severity score of >20. Given this, it seems reasonable to continue using reamed IMN for tibial and femoral shaft fractures after evaluation for COVID severity, comorbidities, and other injuries.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

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

Coronavirus in hip fractures (CHIP) 4 : has vaccination improved mortality outcomes in hip fracture patients?

AIMS

Prior to the availability of vaccines, mortality for hip fracture patients with concomitant COVID-19 infection was three times higher than pre-pandemic rates. The primary aim of this study was to determine the 30-day mortality rate of hip fracture patients in the post-vaccine era.

METHODS

A multicentre observational study was carried out at 19 NHS Trusts in England. The study period for the data collection was 1 February 2021 until 28 February 2022, with mortality tracing until 28 March 2022. Data collection included demographic details, data points to calculate the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score, COVID-19 status, 30-day mortality, and vaccination status.

RESULTS

A total of 337 patients tested positive for COVID-19. The overall 30-day mortality in these patients was 7.7%: 5.5% in vaccinated patients and 21.7% in unvaccinated patients. There was no significant difference between post-vaccine mortality compared with pre-pandemic 2019 controls (7.7% vs 5.0%; p = 0.068). Independent risk factors for mortality included unvaccinated status, Abbreviated Mental Test Score ≤ 6, male sex, age > 80 years, and time to theatre > 36 hours, in decreasing order of effect size.

CONCLUSION

The vaccination programme has reduced 30-day mortality rates in hip fracture patients with concomitant COVID-19 infection to a level similar to pre-pandemic. Mortality for unvaccinated patients remained high.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(12):1362-1368.

Management of Femur Fractures during COVID-19 Pandemic Period: The Influence of Vaccination and Nosocomial COVID-19 Infection

The COVID-19 pandemic management has led to a significant change in orthopedic surgical activity. During the pandemic, femur fractures in patients over 65 years of age have maintained a constant incidence. Our study will focus on this fragile population, analyzing the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection during hospital stays and the clinical and radiographic orthopedic outcomes. We also evaluated the va\riation of COVID-19 infection after health professionals' vaccinations, and the influence of inter-hospital transfers caused by logistical and organizational aspects of the pandemic. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive and prospective study from 13 October 2020 to 15 March 2021. Participants were patients over 65 years of age with diagnoses of proximal femoral fractures with r surgical treatments indicated. We compared the SARS-CoV-2 infected patients during the stay with non-infected cases. A second evaluation was carried out dividing the patients into those who underwent inter-hospital transfers and a group without transfers. We subdivided the study period into two, according to the percentage of healthcare workers vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. The reported clinical variables included the Parker and Palmer Score, the Nottingham Hip Fracture Score, the Harris Hip Score, mortality, the Rush Score, and evaluation of reduction in radio-lucent lines in prosthetic implants. Results: Ninety-three patients were studied. The whole positive COVID cohort (11.83%) was hospitalized during the period when less than 80% of health workers were vaccinated (p = 0.02). The COVID cohort and the patients transferred before surgery had longer stays in the Emergency Room (p = 0.019; p = 0.00007) and longer lengths of stay compared to the other patients (p = 0.00001; p = 0.001). Mortality was higher both in the infected group and in the patients who underwent a transfer before the surgical procedure (18.18% vs. 1.22 %; p = 0.003. 25% vs. 6.85%; p = 0.02). In terms of orthopedic outcomes measured through the third month of follow-up, we found worse score results in functional and radiographic outcomes in the COVID positive cohort and in the transferred patients' cohort. Conclusions: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients treated for proximal femur fracture was statistically significant. Patients with Coronavirus during hospitalization obtained poor short-term radiographic and functional results and increased peri-operative mortality. The incidence of intra-hospital infection was high during the period in which health professionals were not yet covered by the anti-COVID vaccination cycle. Patients who were transferred between two hospitals due to pandemic-related management issues also achieved reduced outcomes compared to non-transferred cases, with increased mortality.

The impact of COVID-19 on mortality after hip fracture : a population cohort study from England

AIMS

Hip fracture commonly affects the frailest patients, of whom many are care-dependent, with a disproportionate risk of contracting COVID-19. We examined the impact of COVID-19 infection on hip fracture mortality in England.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study of patients with hip fracture recorded in the National Hip Fracture Database between 1 February 2019 and 31 October 2020 in England. Data were linked to Hospital Episode Statistics to quantify patient characteristics and comorbidities, Office for National Statistics mortality data, and Public Health England's SARS-CoV-2 testing results. Multivariable Cox regression examined determinants of 90-day mortality. Excess mortality attributable to COVID-19 was quantified using Quasi-Poisson models.

RESULTS

Analysis of 102,900 hip fractures (42,630 occurring during the pandemic) revealed that among those with COVID-19 infection at presentation (n = 1,120) there was a doubling of 90-day mortality; hazard ratio (HR) 2.09 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.89 to 2.31), while the HR for infections arising between eight and 30 days after presentation (n = 1,644) the figure was greater at 2.51 (95% CI 2.31 to 2.73). Malnutrition (1.45 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.77)) and nonoperative treatment (2.94 (95% CI 2.18 to 3.95)) were the only modifiable risk factors for death in COVID-19-positive patients. Patients who had tested positive for COVID-19 more than two weeks prior to hip fracture initially had better survival compared to those who contracted COVID-19 around the time of their hip fracture; however, survival rapidly declined and by 365 days the combination of hip fracture and COVID-19 infection was associated with a 50% mortality rate. Between 1 January and 30 June 2020, 1,273 (99.7% CI 1,077 to 1,465) excess deaths occurred within 90 days of hip fracture, representing an excess mortality of 23% (99.7% CI 20% to 26%), with most deaths occurring within 30 days.

CONCLUSION

COVID-19 infection more than doubles the rate of early hip fracture mortality. Those contracting infection between 8 and 30 days after initial presentation are at even higher mortality risk, signalling the potential for targeted interventions during this period to improve survival.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1156-1167.

Proximal Femoral Fractures in the Elderly: A Few Things to Know, and Some to Forget

Hip fractures are a leading cause of hospitalisation in elderly patients, representing an increasing socioeconomic problem arising from demographic changes, considering the increased number of elderly people in our countries. Adequate peri-operative treatment is essential to decrease mortality rates and avoid complications. Modern management should involve a coordinated multidisciplinary approach, early surgery, pain treatment, balanced fluid therapy, and prevention of delirium, to improve patients' functional and clinical outcomes. The operative treatment for intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures is intramedullary nail or sliding/dynamic hip screw (DHS) on the basis of the morphology of the fracture. In the case of neck fractures, total hip replacement (THR) or hemiarthroplasty are recommended. However, several topics remain debated, such as the optimum thromboprophylaxis to reduce venous thromboembolism or the use of bone cement. Postoperatively, patients can benefit from early mobilisation and geriatric multidisciplinary care. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a prolonged time to operation with a subsequent increased complication rate have burdened frail and elderly patients with hip fractures. Future studies are needed with the aim to investigate better strategies to improve nutrition, postoperative mobility, to clarify the role of home-based rehabilitation, and to identify the ideal analgesic treatment and adequate tools in case of patients with cognitive impairment.

Charlson comorbidity index, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and undertreatment with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors predict in-hospital mortality of hospitalized COVID-19 patients during the omicron dominant period

Purpose

To investigate the clinical predictors of in-hospital mortality in hospitalized patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection during the Omicron period.

Methods

All consecutive hospitalized laboratory‐confirmed COVID-19 patients between January and May 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent accurate physical, laboratory, radiographic and echocardiographic examination. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality.

Results

74 consecutive COVID-19 patients (80.0 ± 12.6 yrs, 45.9% males) were included. Patients who died during hospitalization (27%) and those who were discharged alive (73%) were separately analyzed. Compared to patients discharged alive, those who died were significantly older, with higher comorbidity burden and greater prevalence of laboratory, radiographic and echographic signs of pulmonary and systemic congestion. Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (OR 1.76, 95%CI 1.07-2.92), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR 1.24, 95%CI 1.10-1.39) and absence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI)/angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) therapy (OR 0.01, 95%CI 0.00-0.22) independently predicted the primary endpoint. CCI ≥7 and NLR ≥9 were the best cut-off values for predicting mortality. The mortality risk for patients with CCI ≥7, NLR ≥9 and not in ACEI/ARBs therapy was high (86%); for patients with CCI <7, NLR ≥9, with (16.6%) or without (25%) ACEI/ARBs therapy was intermediate; for patients with CCI <7, NLR <9 and in ACEI/ARBs therapy was of 0%.

Conclusions

High comorbidity burden, high levels of NLR and the undertreatment with ACEI/ARBs were the main prognostic indicators of in-hospital mortality. The risk stratification of COVID-19 patients at hospital admission would help the clinicians to take care of the high-risk patients and reduce the mortality.

Comparative Outcomes and Surgical Timing for Operative Fragility Hip Fracture Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Cohort Study

The COVID-19 pandemic had wide-reaching effects on healthcare delivery, including care for hip fractures, a common injury among older adults. This study characterized factors related to surgical timing and outcomes, length-of-stay, and discharge disposition among patients treated for operative hip fractures during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to historical controls. A retrospective, observational cohort study was conducted from 16 March-20 May 2020 with a consecutive series of 64 operative fragility hip fracture patients at three tertiary academic medical centers. Historical controls were matched based on sex, surgical procedure, age, and comorbidities. Primary outcomes included 30-day mortality and time-to-surgery. Secondary outcomes included 30-day postoperative complications, length-of-stay, discharge disposition, and time to obtain a COVID-19 test result. There was no difference in 30-day mortality, complication rates, length-of-stay, anesthesia type, or time-to-surgery, despite a mean time to obtain a final preoperative COVID-19 test result of 17.6 h in the study group. Notably, 23.8% of patients were discharged to home during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to 4.8% among controls (p = 0.003). On average, patients received surgical care within 48 h of arrival during the COVID-19 pandemic. More patients were discharged to home rather than a facility with no change in complications, suggesting an opportunity for increased discharge to home.

Indirect effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital mortality in patients with hip fracture: a competing risk survival analysis using linked administrative data

BACKGROUND

Hip fracture is a leading cause of disability and mortality among older people. During the COVID-19 pandemic, orthopaedic care pathways in the National Health Service in England were restructured to manage pressures on hospital capacity. We examined the indirect consequences of the pandemic for hospital mortality among older patients with hip fracture, admitted from care homes or the community.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of linked care home and hospital inpatient data for patients with hip fracture aged 65 years and over admitted to hospitals in England during the first year of the pandemic (1 March 2020 to 28 February 2021) or during the previous year. We performed survival analysis, adjusting for case mix and COVID-19 infection, and considered live discharge as a competing risk. We present cause-specific hazard ratios (HR_CS) for the effect of admission year on hospital mortality risk.

RESULTS

During the first year of the pandemic, there were 55 648 hip fracture admissions: a 5.2% decrease on the previous year. 9.5% of patients had confirmed or suspected COVID-19. Hospital stays were substantially shorter (p<0.05), and there was a higher daily chance of discharge (HR_CS 1.40, 95% CI 1.38 to 1.41). Overall hip fracture inpatient mortality increased (7.2% in 2020/2021 vs 6.4% in 2019/2020), but patients without concomitant COVID-19 infection had lower mortality rates compared with the year before (5.3%). Admission during the pandemic was associated with a 11% increase in the daily risk of hospital death for patients with hip fracture (HR_CS 1.11, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Although COVID-19 infections led to increases in hospital mortality, overall hospital mortality risk for older patients with hip fracture remained largely stable during the first year of the pandemic.

[Artículo traducido] Mortalidad a 30 días en pacientes con fractura de fémur proximal durante la pandemia COVID-19 en Vizcaya (País Vasco)

OBJECTIVES

Compare 30-day mortality rate following a proximal femur fracture (PFF) and SARS-CoV-2 infection versus a PFF and no SARS-CoV-2 infection.

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative study.

SETTING

Three university hospitals in Biscay province (Basque Country, Spain).

PATIENTS

77 patients over 65 years-old with PFF (AO 31-A and 31-B).

INTERVENTION

Study conducted between 9 March and 15 April 2020. The COVID-19 group included only patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, confirmed by a positive RT-PCR test.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

30-Day mortality rate and risk factors for mortality.

RESULTS

Of a total 77 patients, 10 were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Mean age was 85 years. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection had higher BMI (29.53 kg/m²) compared to patients without infection (24.09 kg/m²) (p = 0.001). No significant differences were found between both groups in terms of the Charlson Comorbidity Index, ASA score, use of oral anticoagulants or presence of cognitive impairment. Seven of the 10 patients in the COVID-19 group developed (viral) pneumonia, as compared to one single case (1/67) of (bacterial) pneumonia in the control group (p < 0.001). Thirty-days mortality was higher (p = 0.03) in COVID-19 patients (40%) than in those in the control group (11.9%). In the multivariate analysis, age ≥ 91 years-old, ASA class IV and BMI > 25 kg/m² were significant predictors of 30-day mortality. All deaths in the COVID-19 group occurred while the patients were hospitalized.

CONCLUSIONS

SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with a PFF was seen to result in higher rates of early mortality, with COVID-19-related pneumonia being the leading direct cause of mortality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III study.

Management of hip fracture in COVID-19 infected patients

Given that the global population of elderly individuals is expanding and the difficulty of recovery, hip fractures will be a huge challenge and a critical health issue for all of humanity. Although people have spent more time at home during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, hip fractures show no sign of abating. Extensive studies have shown that patients with hip fracture and COVID-19 have a multifold increase in mortality compared to those uninfected and a more complex clinical condition. At present, no detailed research has systematically analyzed the relationship between these two conditions and proposed a comprehensive solution. This article aims to systematically review the impact of COVID-19 on hip fracture and provide practical suggestions. We found that hip fracture patients with COVID-19 have higher mortality rates and more complicated clinical outcomes. Indirectly, COVID-19 prevents hip fracture patients from receiving regular medical treatment. With regard to the problems we encounter, we provide clinical recommendations based on existing research evidence and a clinical flowchart for the management of hip fracture patients who are COVID-19 positive. Our study will help clinicians adequately prepare in advance when dealing with such patients and optimize treatment decisions.

COVID-19 Is Associated With a 4 Fold Increase in 30-day Mortality Risk in Hip Fracture Patients in the United Kingdom: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Hip fracture in elderly patients is associated with a significant mortality which may be worsened by COVID-19 infection.

Objective

To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies assessing the effect of COVID-19 infection and mortality rates in hip fracture patients in the United Kingdom (UK) during the first surge of the pandemic.

Design

A systematic literature search of 9 online databases was undertaken independently by 2 reviewers using the Cochrane methodology for systematic reviews. Eligibility criteria were any study of an adult population with a hip fracture that assessed the relationship between COVID-19 infection and 30-day mortality in the UK. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model.

Results

Out of 309 identified articles, 10 studies reporting on 2448 hip fracture patients met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that the estimated mortality rate in patients with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection was 32.5% (95% CI= 28.3 to 37.0) compared to 8.6% (95% CI= 6.3 to 11.6) in COVID-19 negative patients. Meta-analysis of 9 comparative studies showed a significantly higher mortality in patients with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection as compared to patients without (RR=3.937, 95% CI= 2.867 to 5.406, P<.001). Similar findings were obtained when comparing mortality in COVID-19 laboratory confirmed or clinically suspected infected vs non-infected patients (RR=4.576, 95% CI = 3.589 to 5.835, P <.001).

Conclusions

COVID-19 infection is associated with a 4-fold increase in mortality risk in hip fracture patients. Every effort should be made to avoid COVID-19 infection and nosocomial exposure in this highly vulnerable patient group.

Reduction prevalence of fragility fracture hospitalisation during the COVID-19 lockdown

Fracture hospitalizations of people ≥ 65 years old living in France increased annually from 2015 until 2019 (average: 1.8%), until being reduced in 2020 (- 1.4%) with an abrupt decrease during the lockdown period. Decreased exposure to the risk of falling during COVID-19 year 2020 may have reflected in lower incidence of fractures.

Connections between Orthopedic Conditions and Oxidative Stress: Current Perspective and the Possible Relevance of Other Factors, Such as Metabolic Implications, Antibiotic Resistance, and COVID-19

The general opinion in the literature is that these topics remain clearly understudied and underrated, with many unknown aspects and with controversial results in the respective areas of research. Based on the previous experience of our groups regarding such matters investigated separately, here we attempt a short overview upon their links. Thus, we summarize here the current state of knowledge regarding the connections between oxidative stress and: (a) orthopedic conditions; (b) COVID-19. We also present the reciprocal interferences among them. Oxidative stress is, of course, an interesting and continuously growing area, but what exactly is the impact of COVID-19 in orthopedic patients? In the current paper we also approached some theories on how oxidative stress, metabolism involvement, and even antibiotic resistance might be influenced by either orthopedic conditions or COVID-19. These manifestations could be relevant and of great interest in the context of this current global health threat; therefore, we summarize the current knowledge and/or the lack of sufficient evidence to support the interactions between these conditions.

Incidence of hip fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Brazilian public health care system

This study compared the incidence of hip fractures before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, aged ≥ 60 years excluding all fractures related to any trauma. There was a significant reduction in the number of hip fractures and the length of hospital stay during the period of social isolation.

PURPOSE

To compare the incidence of hip fractures before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil and in the main regions of the country in patients covered by the Brazilian public health care system (SUS). As far as we are aware, no studies have evaluated the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on hip fractures in Brazil.

METHODS

Descriptive, cross-sectional study in individuals aged ≥ 60 years who presented with a hip fracture before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and received treatment covered by the SUS. The data were collected from the DATASUS electronic database. We calculated the incidence, mortality, lethality, duration of hospitalization, and average reimbursement associated with the treatment of the fractures.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in the incidence of hip fractures among individuals aged ≥ 60 years in Brazil during the period of social isolation due to COVID-19. The observed incidence was 15.58/10,000 inhabitants between March and December 2020 and 16.07/10,000 inhabitants in the same period of 2019 (p < 0.005; main decline observed in the age groups > 70 years). The average length of hospital stay reduced from 8.35 days in 2019 to 7.33 days in 2020, following a similar pattern of reduction across all regions. The Southeast was the only region with a significant reduction in mortality during the pandemic (relative risk 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.84-0.97, p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

During the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, the incidence rate of hip fractures and the associated duration of hospital stay decreased among patients aged ≥ 60 years.

Evaluation of the Potential Risk of Mortality from SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Hospitalized Patients According to the Charlson Comorbidity Index

Background: The pandemic of COVID-19 has represented a major threat to global public health in the last century and therefore to identify predictors of mortality among COVID-19 hospitalized patients is widely justified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible usefulness of Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) as mortality predictor in patients hospitalized because COVID-19. Methods: This study was carried out in Zacatecas, Mexico, and it included 705 hospitalized patients with suspected of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinical data were collected, and the CCI score was calculated online using the calculator from the Sociedad Andaluza de Medicina Intensiva y Unidades Coronarias; the result was evaluated as mortality predictor among the patients with COVID-19. Results: 377 patients were positive for SARS-COV-2. Obesity increased the risk of intubation among the study population (odds ratio (OR) = 2.59; 95 CI: 1.36–4.92; p = 0.003). The CCI values were higher in patients who died because of COVID-19 complications than those observed in patients who survived (p < 0.001). Considering a CCI cutoff > 31.69, the area under the ROC curve was 0.75, with a sensitivity and a specificity of 63.6% and 87.7%, respectively. Having a CCI value > 31.69 increased the odds of death by 12.5 times among the study population (95% CI: 7.3–21.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The CCI is a suitable tool for the prediction of mortality in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. The presence of comorbidities in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 reflected as CCI > 31.69 increased the risk of death among the study population, so it is important to take precautionary measures in patients due to their condition and their increased vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-IV) inhibitor was associated with mortality reduction in COVID-19 - A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the latest evidence on the effect of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-IV) inhibitor in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search from the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov up until 15 July 2021. Studies that met the following criteria were included: prospective or retrospective observational studies or case series or randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting DPP-IV inhibitor use in patients with COVID-19 and mortality. The intervention group was patients receiving DPP-IV inhibitor. The control group was patients that did not receive DPP-IV inhibitor. The outcome was mortality reported as odds ratio (OR).

RESULTS

There were 11 studies consisting of 5950 patients in this meta-analysis. DPP-IV inhibitor use was associated with reduced mortality (OR 0.75 [0.56, 0.99], p = 0.043, I2: 42.9, p = 0.064) compared to those that did not receive DPP-IV inhibitor. Sensitivity analysis using the fixed-effect model (OR 0.75 [0.63, 0.88], p < 0.001, I2: 42.9, p = 0.064) also showed mortality benefit. The association between DPP-IV inhibitor and mortality was not significantly affected by age (p = 0.540), sex (p = 0.054), hypertension (p = 0.320), location (continent; p = 0.532), and retrospective/prospective nature of the study (p = 0.840). However, the association was affected by metformin (OR 1.03 [95% CI 1.01, 1.06], p = 0.010) and ACEI/ARB use (OR 1.06 [95% CI 1.02, 1.10], p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis showed that DPP-IV inhibitor was associated with reduced mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Impact of Sars-Cov-2 pandemic on hip fractures: Clinical and radiographic outcomes

Introduction: Hip fractures affecting older people are at a higher risk of complications during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The aim of this study is to provide data about proximal femoral fractures management and early outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic compared to the same period in 2019. Material and Methods: Retrospective and comparative study performed in two different periods were analyzed: from March 15, 2020, to April 30, 2020 (the first six weeks of Spain´s current confinement) and the same period in 2019. Data regarding demographics (age and sex, housing), type of fracture, surgical performance, early outcomes (at 30 days), and at 1-year follow-up were collected. A total of 146 patients were evaluated, 89 in 2019 and 57 in 2020. Results: Despite the drop ∼35.6% in hip fractures during SARS-CoV-2 period, distribution (age (P = 0.985), sex (P = 0.43), housing (P = 0.61), type of fracture (P = 0.41)) and Charlson comorbidity index (P = 0.12) were similar to a 2019 period. Surgical performance did not worsen in spite of the tough situation and the use of personal protective equipment, improving in some radiological variables (tip-to-apex and calcar reduction). In terms of postoperative outcomes, although there is a tendency to a short-term mortality increase (from 3.4% to 5.2%, P = 0.22), there were no differences at 1-year follow-up (20.2% in 2019 and 20.4% in 2020, P=0.587). In the same line, although in both groups the patients lost functionality at 1 year, there were no significant differences (P = 0.42). Conclusion: Even in challenging times, protocols and adequate organization ensure proper outcomes, reaching satisfying clinical and surgical outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite an increasing trend in short term mortality not seen at 1-year follow-up.

Hip fracture mortality in patients co-infected with coronavirus disease 2019: a comparison of the first two waves of the United Kingdom pandemic during the pre-vaccine era

Aims

In the UK, deaths associated with COVID-19 have occurred in two waves. Evidence has shown an increase in 30-day mortality for hip fracture patients co-infected with COVID-19. However, there are no studies analysing mortality trends between the first two waves of the UK pandemic. Additionally, hospital versus community acquired COVID-19 infection between the two waves has not been analysed. Furthermore, predictive factors of 30-day mortality have not been fully evaluated.

Methods

Data from two audits conducted by the CHIP collaborative group were used: a published regional audit in England of nine hospitals providing the COVID-19 negative cases and an unpublished UK national audit of 43 hospitals, which provided the COVID-19 positive cases. Data collection for the COVID-19 positive cases was from 23 March to 31 December 2020. September 1, 2020 was used to define the transition between the two waves.

Results

There were 517 COVID-19 positive hip fracture patients and 1445 COVID-19 negative hip fracture patients. Overall, 30-day mortality rates were 5.7% in the COVID-19 negative group and 22.4% in the COVID-19 positive patients (p < 0.001). A difference in survival function between the first and second waves was found (p = 0.038). To allow for significant demographic differences, a matched analysis of 185 patients found a 26.5% 30-day mortality in the first wave compared to 21.1% in the second wave (p = 0.222). Within the COVID-19 positive groups, the virus was hospital acquired in 66.7% of cases in the first wave and 72.8% of cases in the second wave (p = 0.130). Independent predictors of mortality were found to include COVID-19 positive status, AMTS ≤ 6, male gender and age.

Conclusion

There was a reduction in 30-day mortality for hip fracture patients co-infected with COVID-19 between the two UK pandemic waves but this was not statistically significant. There was no reduction in hospital acquired COVID-19 infection between the two waves.

Impact of COVID-19 on Key Performance Indicators of the National Hip Fracture Database and the Management of Hip Fracture Patients

Background: A hospital's performance regarding the management of hip fractures is based on six key performance indicators (KPIs) which are recorded onto the National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD). The aim of this study was to assess the overall impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the management and outcomes of hip fracture patients against a similar period in 2019 by utilizing the KPIs.

Method: Retrospective data collection of hip fracture patients during a six-week (pre-COVID) period in 2019 and a six-week (COVID-19) period in a single orthopedic unit. The following parameters were compared; patient age, time to theater, surgeon operating time, total time in the operating room, time from ward to recovery, time from hospital presentation to theater, and total time from presentation to hospital discharge.

Results: Some 38 patients in the pre-COVID-19 period vs. 27 patients with hip fractures in the COVID-19 period were included in the study. Time from diagnosis to theater and surgeon operating time were similar in both groups. The mean length of stay was 9.3 days vs. a mean of 31.34 days (p = 0.0004) in the COVID-19 and pre-COVID-19 groups respectively. A 30-day mortality was 22.2% (n = 6) in the COVID-19 group vs. 5.3% (n = 2) in the pre-COVID-19 group.

Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that the combination of surgical stress and COVID-19 leads to higher mortality rates. Our hospital’s structural reorganization during the pandemic has shown progress in achieving important KPIs and improved short-term outcomes for hip fracture and trauma patients.

"Surgically Treated COVID-19-Positive Trauma Patients Had a Higher Fatality Rate" - A Rural District General Hospital's Perspective in the United Kingdom

Introduction

Our study analyses the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on perioperative death in elderly patients undergoing surgery for fractures who test positive for the virus during their admission in a rural hospital setting in the UK.

Methods

One hundred and fifty-six consecutive patients with age more than 75 years, who underwent surgery for fractures in Glangwili General Hospital during the second wave of the pandemic between 20th November 2020 and 20th January 2021, were included in this study. The 28-day mortality rate was estimated, and the results were compared to a matched cohort of patients from a similar duration before the pandemic (20th November 2019 to 20th January 2020).

Results

A total of 41 out of 156 patients were tested positive for COVID-19 in this study cohort. The overall 28-day mortality rate was 8.9% (n=15 patients) in comparison to 4% (n=8) in the comparative cohort of 196 patients from the pre-pandemic era. Of the 41 patients who tested positive for COVID-19, 11 patients died within 28 days of surgery, resulting in a mortality rate of 26.8% with a relative risk of 7.7(p=0.0461). Furthermore, 91% (n=10) of COVID-19-positive patients who died had an underlying cardiac disease and/or proximal femoral fractures. The 28-day mortality rate in those tested negative for COVID-19 was 3.5% (n=4).

Conclusion

There is a significantly increased risk of death in the perioperative period on contracting COVID-19, in patients who are 75 years of age or older, especially those with associated cardiac comorbidities and who have sustained proximal femoral fractures.

The risk factors of heart failure in elderly patients with hip fracture: what should we care

BACKGROUND

Heart failure is a common adverse postoperative complication in elderly patients. It is necessary to explore the risk factors of heart after the operation of elderly patients with hip fracture during hospitalization.

METHODS

Patients with hip fractures admitted to our hospital from January 1, 2019 to December 31 2020 were included, all the patients received internal fixation surgery. The characteristics of patients with and without postoperative heart failure were compared. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to analyze the risk factors of heart failure in elderly patients with hip fracture.

RESULTS

A total of 283 patients with hip fractures were included, the incidence of heart failure was 12.37 %. There were significant differences in the age, hypertension, anemia hypoalbuminemia and duration of surgery between heart failure and no heart failure group(all p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the gender, BMI, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, history of heart failure, cognitive dysfunction, type of fracture, preoperative oxygen saturation, white blood cell count, platelet count, red blood cell count, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and estimated blood loss during surgery between heart failure and no heart failure group(all p > 0.05). Logistic regression analyses indicated that age ≥ 70y(OR2.446, 95% CI1.044 ~ 4.149), hypertension(OR2.152, 95% CI1.125 ~ 4.023), anemia(OR3.094, 95% CI1.294 ~ 5.907), hypoalbuminemia(OR2.377, 95% CI1.205 ~ 4.537), duration of surgery ≥ 120 min(OR1.683, 95% CI1.094 ~ 2.782) were the risk factors of heart failure in elderly patients with hip fracture(all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of postoperative heart failure in elderly patients with hip fracture is relatively high, which is the result of a combination of high-risk factors. Peri-period risk assessment and prevention of related risks are the keys to a good prognosis for patients.

Increased Comorbidity Burden Among Hip Fracture Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic in New York City

Background

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic had a devastating effect on New York City in the spring of 2020. Several global reports suggested worse early outcomes among COVID-positive patients with hip fractures. However, there is limited data comparing baseline comorbidities among patients treated during the pandemic relative to those treated in non-pandemic conditions.

Materials and Methods

A multicenter retrospective cohort study was performed at two Level 1 Trauma centers and one orthopedic specialty hospital to assess demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes among 67 hip fracture patients treated (OTA/AO 31, 32.1) during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City (March 20, 2020 to April 24, 2020), including 9 who were diagnosed with COVID-19. These patients were compared to a cohort of 76 hip fracture patients treated 1 year prior (March 20, 2019 to April 24, 2019). Baseline demographics, comorbidities, treatment characteristics, and respiratory symptomatology were evaluated. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality.

Results

Relative to patients treated in 2019, patients with hip fractures during the pandemic had worse Charlson Comorbidity Indices (median 5.0 vs 6.0, P = .03) and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) scores (mean 2.4 vs 2.7, P = .04). Patients during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to have decreased ambulatory status (P<.01) and a smoking history (P = .04). Patients in 2020 had longer inpatient stays (median 5 vs 7 days, P = .01), and were more likely to be discharged home (61% vs 9%, P<.01). Inpatient mortality was significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic (12% vs 0%, P = .002).

Conclusions

Patients with hip fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic had worse comorbidity profiles and decreased functional status compared to patients treated the year prior. This information may be relevant in negotiations regarding reimbursement for cost of care of hip fracture patients with COVID-19, as these patients may require more expensive care.

Management of proximal femur fractures in the elderly: current concepts and treatment options

As one of the leading causes of elderly patients’ hospitalisation, proximal femur fractures (PFFs) will present an increasing socioeconomic problem in the near future. This is a result of the demographic change that is expressed by the increasing proportion of elderly people in society. Peri-operative management must be handled attentively to avoid complications and decrease mortality rates. To deal with the exceptional needs of the elderly, the development of orthogeriatric centres to support orthogeriatric co-management is mandatory. Adequate pain medication, balanced fluid management, delirium prevention and the operative treatment choice based on comorbidities, individual demands and biological rather than chronological age, all deserve particular attention to improve patients’ outcomes. The operative management of intertrochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures favours intramedullary nailing. For femoral neck fractures, the Garden classification is used to differentiate between non-displaced and displaced fractures. Osteosynthesis is suitable for biologically young patients with non-dislocated fractures, whereas total hip arthroplasty and hemiarthroplasty are the main options for biologically old patients and displaced fractures. In bedridden patients, osteosynthesis might be an option to establish transferability from bed to chair and the restroom. Postoperatively, the patients benefit from early mobilisation and early geriatric care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, prolonged time until surgery and thus an increased rate of complications took a toll on frail patients with PFFs. This review aims to offer surgical guidelines for the treatment of PFFs in the elderly with a focus on pitfalls and challenges particularly relevant to frail patients.

Hip fracture care and mortality among patients treated in dedicated COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 circuits

INTRODUCTION

To analyze the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the provision of fragility hip fracture care, comparing patients treated before cohorting and in separate COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 circuits with the corresponding months in 2018 and 2019.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective single-center cohort study including 64 patients with fragility hip fractures treated during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 1st-May 1st, 2020), compared to 172 patients treated in 2018 and 2019. Dedicated COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 circuits were established on March 14th. Patients treated before cohorting (17 patients), in COVID-19 (14 patients) and non-COVID-19 circuits (33 patients) were included.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar for 2018-19 and 2020. Patients in 2020 had a lower median surgical delay (50.5 vs. 91.3 h) and length of stay (9.0 vs. 14.0 days), while those with COVID-19, had longer surgical delays and length of stay (87.7 h and 15.0 days, respectively). Thirty-days mortality was higher among patients before cohorting, but similar in Covid-19 and non-Covid-19 pathways compared to 2018-19 (7.1% and 3.0% vs 5.2%, respectively). 23.5% of patients treated before circuiting suffered coronavirus infectious disease-19 disease after discharge. Following separation, no secondary cases of coronavirus infectious disease-19 were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Separate circuits for patients with and without coronavirus infectious disease-19 provided adequate hip fracture care. We did not observe increased mortality rates among hip fracture patients with preoperatively confirmed or suspected coronavirus infectious disease-19, compared to negative cases and 2018-19. Delaying surgery among patients with severe respiratory illness until a favourable trend could be observed did not lead to increased mortality.

[Thirty-day mortality in patients with a proximal femur fracture during the COVID-19 pandemic in Biscay (Basque Country).]

Objectives

Compare 30-day mortality rate following a proximal femur fracture (PFF) and SARS-CoV-2 infection versus a PFF and no SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Design

Retrospective comparative study.

Setting

Three university hospitals in Biscay province (Basque Country, Spain). Patients: 77 patients over 65 years-old with PFF (AO 31-A and 31-B).

Intervention

Study conducted between 9 March and 15 April 2020. The COVID-19 group included only patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, confirmed by a positive RT-PCR test.

Main outcome measurements

30-day mortality rate and risk factors for mortality.

Results

Of a total 77 patients, 10 were diagnosed with SARS CoV-2 infection. Mean age was 85 years. Patients with SARS-Cov-2 infection had higher BMI (29.53 kg/m²) compared to patients without infection (24.09 kg/m²) (p = 0.001). No significant differences were found between both groups in terms of the Charlson Comorbidity Index, ASA score, use of oral anticoagulants or presence of cognitive impairment. Seven of the 10 patients in the COVID-19 group developed (viral) pneumonia, as compared to one single case (1/67) of (bacterial) pneumonia in the control group (p < 0.001). Thirty-days mortality was higher (p = 0.03) in COVID-19 patients (40%) than in those in the control group (11.9%). In the multivariate analysis, age ≥91 years-old, ASA class IV and BMI >25 kg/m² were significant predictors of 30-day mortality. All deaths in the COVID-19 group occurred while the patients were hospitalized.

Conclusions

SARS CoV-2 infection in patients with a PFF was seen to result in higher rates of early mortality, with COVID-19-related pneumonia being the leading direct cause of mortality.

Hip Fractures in the Elderly During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Latin-American Perspective With a Minimum 90-Day Follow-Up

Introduction:

Hip fracture patients have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic; however, the sub acute effects of a concomitant SARS-CoV-2 infection and the outcomes in highly exposed developing countries are still unknown. Our objective is to describe the morbidity and mortality of elderly patients admitted for a hip fracture during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile, with a minimum 90-day follow-up. Also, to elucidate predictors for mortality and to compare mortality results with the pre-pandemic era.

Material and Methods:

Multicentric retrospective review of patients admitted for a fragility hip fracture in 3 hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, and during the same time in 2019. All clinical information and images were recorded, and patients were followed for a minimum of 90-days. Morbidity and mortality were the primary outcomes. Uni/multivariable models were performed to elucidate predictors for mortality utilizing the Weibull’s regression.

Results:

Three hundred ninety-one cases were included. From the 2020 cohort (162 patients), 24 (15%) had a concomitant SARS-CoV-2 infection. Fourteen patients (58%) tested positive after admission. The COVID-19(+) group had a higher risk of in-hospital, 30-day, and 90-day mortality (p < 0.001). They also had a prolonged hospital stay and presented with more complications and readmissions (p < 0.05). Only COVID-19(+) status and older age were independent predictors for mortality with a HR = 6.5 (p = < 0.001) and 1.09 (p = 0.001), respectively. The 2020 cohort had twice the risk of mortality with a HR = 2.04 (p = 0.002) compared to the 2019 cohort. However, comparing only the COVID-19 (-) patients, there was no difference in mortality risk, with a HR = 1.30 (p = 0.343).

Discussion:

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected healthcare systems and elderly patients.

Conclusions:

Hip fracture patients with a concomitant SARS-CoV-2 virus infection were associated with increased morbidity and mortality throughout the first 3 months. COVID-19 status and older age were significant predictors for mortality. Efforts should be directed into nosocomial infection reduction and prompt surgical management.

Level of evidence:

Level III

Thirty-day mortality and reliability of Nottingham Hip Fracture Score in patients with COVID19 infection

In March 2020 Coronavisus-19 pandemic led to significant changes in operations in healthcare in the United Kingdom with national lockdown measures imposed to help protect the vulnerable and prevent transmission. Those deemed vulnerable fall into the cohort of patients at risk of fragility fractures such as fracture neck of femur (NOF). British Orthopaedic Association released guidelines advising that NOF fractures should continue to be treated urgently.

AIM

Our unit aimed to identify changes in NOF caseload during the national lockdown and identify if Nottingham Hip Fracture Scores (NHFS) were reliable at predicting 30-day mortality in COVID-19 positive patients.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study identifying NOF admissions over a 6-week period in 2020 during lockdown period, where demographics, NHFS, and 30-day mortality rates were compared against the same period in 2019.

RESULTS

There was a reduction in NOF admissions by 17.8% (55 vs 67). No significant difference in patient demographics between groups. 30-day mortality rates were not significantly increased in 2020 compared with 2019. COVID-19 positive patients had significantly increased 30-day mortality rates (54%, p = 0.001) compared to COVID-19 negative (9.1%, p = 0.395) and 2019 (6%).

DISCUSSION

NHFS was not reliable as a predictor for 30-day mortality in COVID-19 positive patients. Our unit reports increased mortality rates in NOF patients with covid-19 infection. This adds to the building evidence that COVID-19 is an independent predictor for mortality in NOF patients irrespective of NHFS. This should be communicated to patients who are admitted to hospital with NOF and units should continue with efforts to prevent hospital acquired COVID-19 infection.

Mortality escalates in patients of proximal femoral fractures with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 35 studies on 4255 patients

BACKGROUND

Concerns have been raised about the escalated mortality in patients of proximal femoral fractures (PPFs) with COVID-19. A meta-analysis to evaluate the mortality in patients with PPFs managed during the current COVID-19 pandemic was conducted.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of all published studies were conducted with a search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases using appropriate keywords from January 01, 2020 to January 29, 2021.

RESULTS

35 relevant studies reporting 4255 patients with hip fracture in the current ongoing pandemic, out of which 692 patients were COVID-19 positive. Twenty studies reported mortality and other relevant statistics on hip fracture patients with and without COVID-19 (4123 hip fracture patients in the year 2020-21, out of which 560 had or were suspected of having COVID -19). A meta-analysis of mortality statistics in patients with and without COVID revealed increased odds of mortality among COVID patients [odds ratio (OR) 6.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) [5.09, 7.83] and meta-analysis on the subgroup of surgically treated patients also showed markedly increased mortality risk among those with COVID-19 (OR) 5.99, 95% CI [3.88,9.24].

CONCLUSION

The mortality risk is markedly increased in hip fracture with concomitant COVID-19 as compared to those without it. This increased risk persisted in those managed surgically. It could be due to the inflammation induced by the fracture or surgery for fracture fixation, further exacerbating inflammation, leading to cytokine storm. It is imperative that such patients are informed regarding increased mortality risk during the consent and shared decision-making process.

Higher 90-Day Mortality after Surgery for Hip Fractures in Patients with COVID-19: A Case-Control Study from a Single Center in Italy

The mortality of hip fracture (HF) patients is increased by concomitant COVID-19; however, evidence is limited to only short follow-up. A retrospective matched case-control study was designed with the aim to report the 90-day mortality and determine the hazard ratio (HR) of concomitant HF and COVID-19 infection. Cases were patients hospitalized for HF and diagnosed with COVID-19. Controls were patients hospitalized for HF not meeting the criteria for COVID-19 diagnosis and were individually matched with each case through a case-control (1:3) matching algorithm. A total of 89 HF patients were treated during the study period, and 14 of them were diagnosed as COVID-19 positive (overall 15.7%). Patients' demographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics were similar between case and control groups. At 90 days after surgery, 5 deaths were registered among the 14 COVID-19 cases (35.7%) and 4 among the 42 HF controls (9.5%). COVID-19-positive cases had a higher risk of mortality at 30 days (HR = 4.51; p = 0.0490) and 90 days (HR = 4.50; p = 0.025) with respect to controls. Patients with concomitant HF and COVID-19 exhibit high perioperative mortality, which reaches a plateau of nearly 30-35% after 30 to 45 days and is stable up to 90 days. The mortality risk is more than four-fold higher in patients with COVID-19.

Epidemiological pattern of orthopaedic fracture during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed evaluate the 30-day mortality, number and site of fracture, mechanism of injury, and location where injury was sustained during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search from PubMed and Embase on original articles, research letters, and short reports which have data about the number of fractures, site of fracture, mechanism of injury, location where injury was sustained, percentage of operative intervention, mortality during the pandemic compared to a specified period of time before the pandemic. The search was finalized in October 14, 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 11,936 participants from 16 studies were included in our study. The pooled analysis indicated a higher 30-days mortality associated with fractures during the pandemic (9% vs 4%, OR 1.86 [1.05, 3.27], p = 0.03; I2: 36%, p = 0.15). The number of fractures presenting to hospitals has declined 43% (35-50%) compared to pre-pandemic. Hand fracture was fewer during the pandemic (18% vs 23%, OR 0.75 [0.58, 0.97], p = 0.03; I2: 69%, p = 0.002). Work-related traumas, high-energy falls, and domestic accidents were more common during the pandemic, while sports-related traumas were found to be less. Injuries that occurred in the sports area were lower than before the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of fractures has decreased, but there is a higher mortality rate associated with fractures.

Early mortality outcomes of patients with fragility hip fracture and concurrent SARS-CoV-2 infection : a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Hip fracture is a common condition of the older, frailer person. This population is also at risk from SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is important to understand the impact of coexistent hip fracture and SARS-CoV-2 for informed decision-making at patient and service levels.

METHODS

We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies of older (> 60 years) people with fragility hip fractures and outcomes with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary outcome was early (30-day or in-hospital) mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay and key clinical characteristics known to be associated with outcomes after hip fracture.

RESULTS

A total of 14 cohort and five case series studies were included (692 SARS-CoV-2 positive, 2,585 SARS-CoV-2 negative). SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with an overall risk ratio (RR) for early mortality of 4.42 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.42 to 5.82). Early mortality was 34% (95% CI 30% to 38%) and 9% (95% CI 8% to 10%) in the infected and noninfected groups respectively. Length of stay was increased in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients (mean difference (MD) 5.2 days (3.2 to 7.2)). Age (MD 1.6 years (0.3 to 2.9)); female sex (RR 0.83 (95% CI 0.65 to 1.05)); admission from home (RR 0.51 (95% CI 0.26 to 1.00)); presence of dementia (RR 1.13 (95% CI 0.94 to 1.43)); and intracapsular fracture (RR 0.89 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.11)) were not associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. There were statistically, but not clinically, significantly greater Nottingham Hip Fracture Scores in infected compared with non-infected patients (MD 0.7 (0.4 to 0.9)).

CONCLUSION

SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with worse outcomes after hip fracture. This is not explained by differences in patient characteristics. These data can be used to support informed decision-making and may help track the impact of widespread adoption of system-level and therapeutic changes in management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(5):314-322.

Hip fracture characteristics and outcomes during COVID-19: a large retrospective national database review

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted healthcare in various vulnerable patient subpopulations. However, data are lacking on the impact of COVID-19 on hip fractures, seen mainly in older patients. Using national claims data, we aimed to describe the epidemiology during the first COVID-19 wave in the USA.

Methods

We compared patients admitted for hip fractures during March and April of 2020 with those admitted in 2019 in terms of patient and healthcare characteristics, COVID-19 diagnosis, and outcomes. An additional comparison was made between COVID-19-positive and -negative patients. Outcomes included length of hospital stay (LOS), admission to an ICU, ICU LOS, use of mechanical ventilation, 30-day readmission, discharge disposition, and a composite variable of postoperative complications.

Results

Overall, 16 068 hip fractures were observed in 2019 compared with 7498 in 2020. Patients with hip fractures in 2020 (compared with 2019) experienced earlier hospital discharge and were less likely to be admitted to ICU, but more likely to be admitted to home. Amongst 83 patients with hip fractures with concomitant COVID-19 diagnosis, we specifically observed more non-surgical treatments, almost doubled LOS, a more than 10-fold increased mortality rate, and higher complication rates compared with COVID-19-negative patients.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted not only volume of hip fractures, but also patterns in care and outcomes. These results may inform policymakers in future outbreaks and how this may affect vulnerable patient populations, such as those experiencing a hip fracture.

Outcomes of COVID-19 Negative Hip Fracture Patients During the Acute and Subacute Pandemic

Objectives:

To better elucidate how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the operatively treated geriatric hip fracture population and how the health care system adapted to pandemic dictated procedures.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

A community hospital.

Participants:

Individuals ≥65 years of age presented with a proximal femoral fracture from a low-energy mechanism undergoing operative treatment from January 17, 2020 to July 2, 2020 (N = 125).

Measurements:

We defined 3 phases of healthcare system response: pre-COVID-19, acute phase, and subacute phase. Thirty-day mortality, time to operating room (OR), length of stay, time to start physical therapy, perioperative complications, delirium rate, hospice admission rate, discharge dispositions, readmission rate, and the reason of surgery delay were assessed.

Results:

The number of hip fractures has remained constant during the pandemic. The 30-day mortality rate, time to OR, and length of stay were higher in the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic. Those who had a longer wait time to OR (≥ 24 hours) had more complications and increased 30-day mortality rates. Some of the surgery delays were related to OR unavailability as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Surgery was delayed in 3 patients who were on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in pandemic but none for pre-pandemic period.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to compare the effect of the acute and subacute phases of the pandemic on uninfected hip fracture patients. In the age of COVID-19, to provide the best care for the vulnerable geriatric orthopedic populations, the healthcare system must adopt new protocols. We should still aim to promote prompt surgical care when indicated. It is important to ensure adequate resource availability, such as OR time and staff so that hip fracture patients may continue to receive rapid access to surgery. A multidisciplinary approach remains the key to the management of fragility hip fracture patients during the pandemic.

Dyslipidemia Increases the Risk of Severe COVID-19: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Meta-regression

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether dyslipidemia affects the mortality and severity of COVID-19, we also aimed to evaluate whether other comorbidities influence the association.

METHODS

A systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, and EuropePMC was performed on 8 October 2020. This study's main outcome is a poor composite outcome, comprising of mortality and severe COVID-19.

RESULTS

There were 9 studies with 3663 patients. The prevalence of dyslipidemia in this pooled analysis was 18% (4%-32%). Dyslipidemia was associated with increased composite poor outcome (RR 1.39 [1.02, 1.88], P = .010; I 2: 56.7%, P = .018). Subgroup analysis showed that dyslipidemia was associated with severe COVID-19 (RR 1.39 [1.03, 1.87], P = .008; I 2: 57.4%, P = .029). Meta-regression showed that the association between dyslipidemia and poor outcome varies by age (coefficient: -0.04, P = .033), male gender (coefficient: -0.03, P = .042), and hypertension (coefficient: -0.02, P = .033), but not diabetes (coefficient: -0.24, P = .135) and cardiovascular diseases (coefficient: -0.01, P = .506). Inverted funnel-plot was relatively symmetrical. Egger's test indicates that the pooled analysis was not statistically significant for small-study effects (P = .206).

CONCLUSION

Dyslipidemia potentially increases mortality and severity of COVID-19. The association was stronger in patients with older age, male, and hypertension.PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42020213491.

Dyslipidemia Increases the Risk of Severe COVID-19: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Meta-regression

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether dyslipidemia affects the mortality and severity of COVID-19, we also aimed to evaluate whether other comorbidities influence the association.

METHODS

A systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, and EuropePMC was performed on 8 October 2020. This study's main outcome is a poor composite outcome, comprising of mortality and severe COVID-19.

RESULTS

There were 9 studies with 3,663 patients. The prevalence of dyslipidemia in this pooled analysis was 18% (4%-32%). Dyslipidemia was associated with increased composite poor outcome (RR 1.39 [1.02, 1.88], p=0.010; I2: 56.7%, p=0.018). Subgroup analysis showed that dyslipidemia was associated with severe COVID-19 (RR 1.39 [1.03, 1.87], p=0.008; I2: 57.4%, p=0.029). Meta-regression showed that the association between dyslipidemia and poor outcome varies by age (coefficient: -0.04, p=0.033), male gender (coefficient: -0.03, p=0.042), and hypertension (coefficient: -0.02, p=0.033), but not diabetes (coefficient: -0.24, p=0.135) and cardiovascular diseases (coefficient: -0.01, p=0.506). Inverted funnel-plot was relatively symmetrical. Egger's test indicates that the pooled analysis was not statistically significant for small-study effects (p=0.206).

CONCLUSION

Dyslipidemia potentially increases mortality and severity of COVID-19. The association was stronger in patients with older age, male, and hypertension.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020213491.

Thrombocytopenia as a prognostic marker in COVID-19 patients: diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate thrombocytopenia as a prognostic biomarker in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We performed a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase and EuropePMC. The main outcome was composite poor outcome, a composite of mortality, severity, need for intensive care unit care and invasive mechanical ventilation. There were 8963 patients from 23 studies. Thrombocytopenia occurred in 18% of the patients. Male gender (P = 0.037) significantly reduce the incidence. Thrombocytopenia was associated with composite poor outcome (RR 1.90 (1.43-2.52), P < 0.001; I2: 92.3%). Subgroup analysis showed that thrombocytopenia was associated with mortality (RR 2.34 (1.23-4.45), P < 0.001; I2: 96.8%) and severity (RR 1.61 (1.33-1.96), P < 0.001; I2: 62.4%). Subgroup analysis for cut-off <100 × 109/l showed RR of 1.93 (1.37-2.72), P < 0.001; I2: 83.2%). Thrombocytopenia had a sensitivity of 0.26 (0.18-0.36), specificity of 0.89 (0.84-0.92), positive likelihood ratio of 2.3 (1.6-3.2), negative likelihood ratio of 0.83 (0.75-0.93), diagnostic odds ratio of 3 (2, 4) and area under curve of 0.70 (0.66-0.74) for composite poor outcome. Meta-regression analysis showed that the association between thrombocytopenia and poor outcome did not vary significantly with age, male, lymphocyte, d-dimer, hypertension, diabetes and CKD. Fagan's nomogram showed that the posterior probability of poor outcome was 50% in patients with thrombocytopenia, and 26% in those without thrombocytopenia. The Deek's funnel plot was relatively symmetrical and the quantitative asymmetry test was non-significant (P = 0.14). This study indicates that thrombocytopenia was associated with poor outcome in patients with COVID-19.PROSPERO ID: CRD42020213974.

Charlson comorbidity index and a composite of poor outcomes in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately affecting patients with comorbidities. Therefore, thorough comorbidities assessment can help establish risk stratification of patients with COVID-19, upon hospital admission. Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) is a validated, simple, and readily applicable method of estimating the risk of death from comorbid disease and has been widely used as a predictor of long-term prognosis and survival.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of CCI score and a composite of poor outcomes through several databases.

RESULTS

Compared to a CCI score of 0, a CCI score of 1-2 and CCI score of ≥3 was prognostically associated with mortality and associated with a composite of poor outcomes. Per point increase of CCI score also increased mortality risk by 16%. Moreover, a higher mean CCI score also significantly associated with mortality and disease severity.

CONCLUSION

CCI score should be utilized for risk stratifications of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

The Effect of Metformin Consumption on Mortality in Hospitalized COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Diabetes is one of the most common comorbidities, and it is associated with poorer outcomes in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Preliminary findings showed that mortality was reduced in those who consume metformin compared to those who did not, and given its low cost and widespread availability; metformin is an attractive and potential agent to mitigate excessive risk in diabetic populations.

METHODS

Several medical databases (Pubmed, EuropePMC, EBSCOhost, Proquest, Cochrane library) and two health-science preprint servers (preprint.org and Medrxiv) were systematically searched for relevant literature.

RESULTS

Nine studies with 10,233 subjects were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis. Meta-analysis showed that metformin is associated with lower mortality in pooled non-adjusted model (OR 0.45 [0.25, 0.81], p = 0.008; I2: 63.9%, p = 0.026) and pooled adjusted model (OR 0.64 [0.43, 0.97], p = 0.035; I2: 52.1%, p = 0.064).

CONCLUSION

The analysis showed that metformin consumption was associated with lower mortality. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this finding.