Avascular osteonecrosis after renal transplantation

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

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

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Immunosuppressive Therapy in Solid Organ Transplantation: Primer for Radiologists and Potential Complications

The availability of effective immunosuppressive medication is primarily responsible for the dramatic improvement in long-term graft survival rates after solid organ transplantation. The commonly used drugs include monoclonal/polyclonal antibodies, corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine and tacrolimus), antimetabolites, mammalian target of rapamycin, and many novel drugs. Prolonged immunosuppression is accompanied by several well-described potentially life-threatening complications. In addition to drug-related side effects, recipients of solid organs are unavoidably at a higher risk for infections and malignancies. Select infections and malignancies in solid organ transplant patients have distinctive imaging findings, and radiologists play a crucial role in the timely diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Identification of hub genes and therapeutic drugs in osteonecrosis of the femoral head through integrated bioinformatics analysis and literature mining

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a multifactorial disease leading to severely limited function. By far, the etiology and pathogenesis of ONFH are not fully understood, and surgery is the only effective way to treat ONFH. This study aims to identify hub genes and therapeutic drugs in ONFH. Two gene expression profiles were downloaded from the gene expression omnibus database, and the hub genes and candidate drugs for ONFH were identified through integrated bioinformatics analysis and cross-validated by literature mining. A total of 159 DEGs were identified. PTGS2, LRRK2, ANXA5, IGF1R, MCL1, TIMP2, LYN, CD68, CBL, and RUNX2 were validated as 10 hub genes, which has considerable implications for future genetic research and related research fields of ONFH. Our findings indicate that 85 drugs interact with ONFH, with most drugs exhibiting a positive impact on ONFH by promoting osteogenesis and angiogenesis or inhibiting microcirculation embolism, rather than being anti-inflammatory. Our study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of ONFH.

Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a progressive and debilitating condition with a wide variety of etiologies including trauma, steroid use, and alcohol intake. Diagnosis and staging are based on imaging including MRI at any stage and plain radiography in more advanced lesions. The only definitive treatment is total hip arthroplasty, although numerous treatments including disphosphonates and core decompression are used to delay the progression. Lack of satisfactory conservative measures suggests the need for additional research of osteonecrosis including large patient registries to further understand this condition.

Comparison of total hip arthroplasty outcomes between hemodialysis and renal transplant patients

INTRODUCTION

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients is associated with increased complications. Controversy exists whether elective THA should be performed while these patients are on haemodialysis (HD) or following renal transplant (RT). This study seeks to compare THA outcomes in HD versus RT patients.

METHODS

A national database was retrospectively reviewed using ICD codes to identify all HD and RT patients who underwent primary THA from 2010 to 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, and hospital factors were compared between cohorts using Wald and chi-square tests. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, while secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), non-home discharge, cost, readmission, and medical/surgical complications. Multivariate regression was used to determine independent associations. Significance was determined with a 2-tailed p-value of 0.05.

RESULTS

11,133 patients underwent THA, 61.6% HD and 39.4% RT patients. RT patients were younger, had fewer comorbidities, and more likely to have private insurance. After adjusting for these differences, RT patients had a lower rate of mortality (OR 0.31, p = 0.01), complications (OR 0.54, p < 0.01), cardiopulmonary complications (OR 0.54, p = 0.04), sepsis (OR 0.43, p < 0.01), and blood transfusion (OR 0.39, p < 0.001) during the index hospitalisation. RT was associated with decreased LOS (-2.0 days, p < 0.001), non-home discharge (OR 0.35, p < 0.001), and hospital cost (-$6,000, p < 0.001). RT had a lower rate of readmission (OR 0.60, p < 0.001) and revision surgery (OR 0.24, p = 0.01) within 90 days.

CONCLUSIONS

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

Outcomes following Total Hip Arthroplasty for Femoral Head Osteonecrosis in Patients with History of Solid Organ Transplant

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a potentially debilitating condition, often requiring total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients with solid organ transplant (SOT) are at increased risk of postoperative complications after THA for osteoarthritis. The objective of the present study is to evaluate SOT as a potential risk factor for complication after THA for ONFH.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study that identified patients with SOT who underwent THA for ONFH from 2005 to 2014 in a national insurance database and compared them to 5:1 matched controls without transplant. Subgroup analyses of patients with renal transplant (RT) and those with non-RT were also analyzed. A logistic regression analysis was used to compare rates of mortality, hospital readmission, emergency room (ER) visits, infection, revision, and dislocation while controlling for confounders. Differences in hospital charges, reimbursement, and length of stay (LOS) were also compared.

RESULTS

996 patients with SOT who underwent THA were identified and compared to 4,980 controls. SOT patients experienced no increased risk of early postoperative complications compared to controls. Solid organ transplant was associated with higher resource utilization and LOS. Renal transplant patients were found to have significantly higher risk of hospital readmission at 30 days (odds ratio [OR] 1.77; p = 0.001) and 90 days (OR 1.62; p < 0.001) and hospital LOS (p < 0.001), but had lower risk of infection (OR 0.65; p = 0.030). Non-RT patients had higher rate of ER visits at 30 days (OR 2.26; p = 0.004) but lower rates of all-cause revision (OR 0.22; p = 0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with history of SOT undergoing THA for ONFH utilize more hospital resources with longer LOS and greater risk of readmission but are not necessarily at an increased risk of early postoperative complications.

Corticosteroid-associated osteonecrosis of the femoral head after orthotopic liver transplantation and the outcomes of subsequent total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroids are essential for immunosuppression after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), but also have many side effects. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is one of the most serious complications requiring prostheses. However, few studies have investigated ONFH after OLT. The purpose of this study is to survey the incidence of corticosteroid-induced ONFH after OLT and the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

Between January 2001 and December 2010, a series of 926 patients underwent OLT at our Hospital. A retrospective analysis was performed on a total of 738 patients who survived at least 2 years after OLT. The incidence of symptomatic ONFH, the interval from OLT to the initial diagnosis of ONFH, and the cumulative dose of corticosteroids were analyzed. The side effects related to OLT, such as other osteonecrosis lesions, osteoporotic fractures, and infection, were monitored. For patients who underwent THA, radiological findings and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were evaluated.

RESULTS

ONFH occurred in 10 patients (13 hips) (6 men [7 hips], 4 women [6 hips]), with an incidence of 1.36%. The average age at OLT was 51.4 years (range, 31-61 years). The average interval from OLT to ONFH was 86.7 months (range, 22-155 months). The average cumulative dose of corticosteroids was 7274 mg (range, 1342-29,514 mg). Twenty patients suffered from side effects related to OLT. Seven patients (8 hips) underwent THA. No adverse events including infection arose during the perioperative process. One hip dislocated, and one femoral stem displayed a radiolucent line. The average JOA score improved from 45.4 (range, 25-76) preoperatively to 86.9 (range, 73-99) at final follow-up. No patients required revision surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of symptomatic ONFH after OLT was 1.36%. Once the graft function becomes stable, THA can be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with ONFH after OLT.

Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: an Updated Review of ARCO on Pathogenesis, Staging and Treatment

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) usually affects adults younger than 50 years and frequently leads to femoral head collapse and subsequent arthritis of the hip. It is becoming more prevalent along with increasing use of corticosteroids for the adjuvant therapy of leukemia and other myelogenous diseases as well as management of organ transplantation. This review updated knowledge on the pathogenesis, classification criteria, staging system, and treatment of ONFH.

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

OBJECTIVES

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head, An Overlooked Long-Term Complication after Paraquat Intoxication: A Retrospective Cohort Study

With increasing numbers of patients surviving acute intoxication phase, long-term complication after paraquat intoxication is a topic worth exploring, such as osteonecrosis (ON) of femoral head. We reviewed 86 paraquat-intoxicated survivors between 2000 and 2012 in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, a 3700-bed tertiary hospital in Taiwan. With all the patients underwent same detoxification protocol in the acute stage, 17.4% of paraquat poisoning survivors developed ON of femoral head requiring surgery during follow up. Most of ON episodes occurred within 2 to 4 years after paraquat intoxication and then plateau after 6 years. ON patients exhibited higher SOFA scores than non-ON patients (2.80 ± 2.14 vs. 1.76 ± 1.52, p = 0.028). Furthermore, AKIN scores are also higher in the ON patients than non-ON patients (0.87 ± 1.13 vs. 0.38 ± 0.74, p = 0.040). Multivariate logistic regression showed higher AKIN score and higher partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood 48 hours after admission significantly predicted ON of femoral head after paraquat intoxication (p = 0.002 and p = 0.006 respectively). Larger studies with longer follow-up durations are warranted to confirm our finding.

Complications and Readmission Incidence Following Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Who Have End-Stage Renal Failure

BACKGROUND

The number of patients who have end-stage renal disease undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has increased over the past decade. The purpose of this study is to evaluate mortality, complications, and 90-day readmission incidences in patients who have end-stage renal disease undergoing THA.

METHODS

Patients who had a primary THA between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2016, were identified from the 5% Medicare database. A total of 55,297 THA patients were stratified into 3 groups: renal dialysis (without transplant), renal transplant, and those without such renal problems. Risk of readmissions, dislocations, periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), venous thromboembolic diseases, and mortalities up to 5 years following primary THA was compared. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the effect of patient and hospital characteristics on the adjusted complication risks.

RESULTS

Mortalities at 5 years was 62.6% in the renal dialysis group, 37.3% in the renal transplant group, compared to 15.0% in the nonrenal group. Dislocations (7.6%) and PJIs (7%) were significantly higher in the dialysis group (P < .001). No significant differences in venous thromboembolic diseases (all timepoints) and revisions (all timepoints except at 90 days) between the renal groups were observed. The 90-day readmission risks were significantly greater in both the dialysis (55%) and transplant (43%) groups compared to the nonrenal cohort (30%) (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Renal dialysis patients undergoing THA are at increased risk of PJIs (7%), dislocations (7.6%), revisions, and mortalities at 90 days compared to transplant and nonrenal patients. Both dialysis and transplant patients are high-risk groups with significantly increased 90-day readmission incidences of 55% and 43%, respectively, which makes their inclusion into a bundled payment model challenging.

Urinary miRNAs as biomarkers for idiopathic osteonecrosis of femoral head: A multicentre study

Objectives

Urinary microRNAs (miRNAs) have shown great diagnostic and prognostic values for multiple diseases. The profile of urinary miRNAs in patients with idiopathic osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) is currently unclear.

Methods

We first randomly chose ten patients with each Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) stage (I, II, III and IV) and ten healthy participants from the entire cohorts for initial screening. The miRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array was then performed to identify the differentially abundant miRNAs in urine of these participants. We then verified the findings in the entire cohort. Clinical features including age, gender, bone mass index (BMI), lesion size and stages were recorded. We then analysed the association between the level of urinary miRNAs and clinical features.

Results

Our data indicated that there were 13 differentially abundant miRNAs among all groups. Urinary miR-150 demonstrated the highest diagnostic value among all candidates. Urinary miR-185 and miR-133a increased by ARCO staging. The levels of urinary miR-4824 abruptly decreased after femoral head collapse (ARCO stage III and IV). Urinary miR-144 was the only marker that correlated with lesion size.

Conclusions

The levels of urinary miRNAs are valuable biomarkers for idiopathic ONFH. Given the noninvasive nature of this test, it is potentially useful for diagnosis and monitoring of idiopathic ONFH progression.

The translational potential of this article

This article gives novel methods for ONFH diagnosis and progression monitoring in a convenient and non-invasive way.

Complications of total joint arthroplasty in solid organ transplant patients versus a large control group

BACKGROUND

Solid organ transplant patients are theoretically at increased risk for complications after total joint replacement due to immunosuppressive medication regimens and multiple medical co-morbidities. There are a number of studies that report on outcomes of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) following solid organ transplant, however, the results are heterogeneous. This study evaluated the outcomes of TJA in solid organ transplant patients as compared to non-organ transplant controls at one academic medical center.

METHODS

This study was a single institution retrospective review of a consecutive series of patients who underwent joint replacement following solid organ transplant as compared to a control cohort over a 10-year period. Univariable and multivariable generalized linear mixed effects models were used to compare the odds of readmission, infection, mortality, and being discharged home between transplanted (cases) and non-transplanted (control) patients.

RESULTS

Transplant and non-transplant cohorts had similar BMI, although transplant patients were younger (61 versus 65 years) and had a higher incidence of Diabetes (55% vs. 16%). On multivariable analysis, there was no difference in the odds of re-admission or rate of infection, but there was an increased risk of death and admission to a rehab facility in the transplant cohort.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this study demonstrates that solid organ transplant alone does not increase the risk of peri-operative complications in patients who underwent hip and knee replacement. However, it should be expected that these patients have a higher mortality rate and that many of them will need to be discharged to a post-acute care facility.

Perioperative management of renal transplant patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty

The success of renal transplantation depends on lifelong immunosuppression. This can lead to a high incidence of avascular necrosis of major joints in the body for which arthroplasty is the treatment of choice. The risk of surgical complications is high in these patients, and there is no current set of cohesive perioperative management guidelines. In this review, we discuss the perioperative management of renal transplant patients undergoing elective total joint arthroplasty.

Avascular osteonecrosis in kidney transplant recipients: Risk factors in a recent cohort study and evaluation of the role of secondary hyperparathyroidism

Avascular osteonecrosis (AVN) is a bone complication that indicates poor functional prognosis. Modern immunosuppressive and steroid-sparing drugs have significantly lowered the occurrence of AVN after kidney transplantation (KT). However, recent data on its incidence rates and risk factors are lacking. Using a large, recent cohort, we sought to investigate AVN incidence and risk factors, with a special focus on mineral and bone disorders. We conducted a cohort study in 805 patients who underwent KT between 2004 and 2014. AVN was identified in 32 patients (4%): before KT in 15 (1.8%) and after KT in 18 (2.2%) cases, including one patient with both. In the group with post-KT AVN, the median time intervals from KT to 1) first symptoms and 2) AVN diagnosis were 12 months [1–99] and 20 months [4–100], respectively. Being overweight/obese, having pre-transplant diabetes or hyperparathyroidism at transplantation, developing acute rejection, and receiving higher cumulative corticosteroid doses were associated with AVN occurrence. Multivariate analysis revealed that BMI ≥ 26 kg/m² and higher cumulative corticosteroid doses were predictive of AVN. In conclusion, overweight/obesity is a strong risk factor for AVN. Despite a low maintenance dose, the use of corticosteroids—mostly for treatment of acute rejection—remains an independent risk factor.

The Effect of Renal Transplantation in End-Stage Renal Failure Patients Undergoing Total Hip Replacement

BACKGROUND

Patients with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) undergoing elective orthopedic surgery generally have higher postoperative morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. Studies on the outcome of ESRF patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR), especially those with a functioning renal transplant, are conflicting. We aim to evaluate the impact of renal transplantation on functional outcome and postoperative complications in patients with ESRF undergoing THR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 29 primary THRs were performed in 25 patients with ESRF between 1999 and 2013. There were 12 patients with 14 THRs who had a functioning renal transplant at the time of surgery (transplant group), and 13 patients with 15 THRs who were dialysis dependent with either no or failed prior transplant (nontransplant group). Functional outcome was evaluated with the Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. Clinical records and followup radiographs were used to evaluate postoperative complications.

RESULTS

There is lower mortality rate (P = 0.02) and lower overall complication rate in the transplant group compared to the nontransplant group (relative risk 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.91, P = 0.008). The mean increase in OHS postoperatively was greater in the nontransplant group (nontransplant-24.7; transplant-18.7) and trended toward statistical significance (P = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

ESRF patients who undergo THR experience improvements in functional outcome regardless of transplant status. There was no significant difference in postoperative functional outcomes between the two groups of patients, but patients with renal transplants are less likely to experience postoperative complications and have better survival.

Bone infarction of the hip after hand allotransplantation: A case report

Vascularized composite allotransplantation represents as an emerging field in reconstructive surgery. However, some complications can be associated with the procedure. The authors describe a case of bone infarctions of the bilateral hip joints following the first hand allotransplantation in Taiwan. A 45-year-old man who experienced a traumatic amputation of the distal third of his forearm received a hand transplantation from a brain-dead donor. Immunosuppression included antithymocyte globulins, and bolus methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) was used for the induction. The maintenance therapy protocol included systemic tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisone. The patient discontinued the systemic steroid 15 months after surgery. Two episodes of acute rejections were observed at 105 and 810 days after surgery. These signs disappeared after pulse therapy with Solu-Medrol, titration with tacrolimus, and topical immunosuppressive creams (tacrolimus and clobetasol). However, the patient felt pain in both hips after long periods of standing 30 months after the transplantation. A pelvic radiograph and magnetic resonance imaging revealed avascular necrosis (AVN) in both hip joints. Because of the progressive worsening of the pain, the patient underwent a decompression surgery on the left hip involving a fibula bone graft. The patient underwent a right hip hemi-arthroplasty with a bipolar prosthesis 3 months later. The patient remained in good health without major complications. These findings indicate that systemic steroids and tacrolimus might be the major predisposing factors for the induction of AVN after hand allotransplantation.

Calcineurin-inhibitor induced pain syndrome - Magnetic resonance imaging and scintigraphic findings illustrated through two cases

Calcineurin-inhibitor induced pain syndrome (CIPS) is a condition characterized by lower extremity pain in patients receiving tacrolimus or cyclosporine therapy following organ transplantation. Through two cases, we demonstrate key imaging findings in CIPS with bone scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which are those of increased scintigraphic activity and marrow edema in the lower extremities, respectively. CIPS is an important condition that has characteristic imaging findings, but is unfortunately underappreciated in the radiology literature. To our knowledge, this is the first article in the radiology literature presenting two cases of CIPS, as well as the first to present both scintigraphic and MRI findings in this condition.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Time trend and risk factors of avascular bone necrosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives

The objective of this paper is to study the time trend and risk factors of avascular bone necrosis (AVN) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Between 1999 and 2014, patients who fulfilled the ACR criteria for SLE and developed symptomatic AVN were identified from our cohort database and compared with those without AVN, matched for age, sex and SLE duration. The standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of AVN in different SLE age groups were calculated from data derived from our hospital registry and population census. Risk factors for AVN were studied by logistic regression, adjusted by a propensity score for ever use of high-dose glucocorticoids (GCs).

Results

Fifty-five SLE patients with AVN and 220 SLE patients without AVN were studied. There were 104 AVN sites involved, with the hips being most commonly affected (82%). The point prevalence of AVN in our SLE cohort was 7.4%. The SIRs of AVN in our SLE patients were 131 (86.6–199; p < 0.001) and 56.0 (34.3–91.4; p < 0.001), respectively, in the periods 1995–2004 and 2005–2014. In both decades, the age-stratified SIR was highest in the youngest age group (<19 years). AVN patients were more likely to be treated with GCs and had received a significantly higher cumulative dose of prednisolone since SLE diagnosis (16.5 vs 10.7 grams; p = 0.001). The SLE damage score (excluding AVN) was also significantly higher in AVN than non-AVN patients (2.5 vs 0.4; p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed that preceding septic arthritis of the involved joint (odds ratio (OR) 17.7 (1.5–205); p = 0.02), cushingoid body habitus (OR 2.4 (1.1–5.2); p = 0.04), LDL cholesterol level (OR 1.4 (1.0–1.9); p = 0.04), maximum daily dose of prednisolone (OR 6.4 (1.2–33.3); p = 0.03) and cumulative dose of prednisolone received in the first six months of the first lupus flare (OR 1.3 (1.0–1.8); p = 0.046) were independently associated with AVN.

Conclusions

AVN is prevalent in SLE, particularly in younger patients. The use of GCs remains the strongest independent risk factor. A trend of reduction in the SIR of AVN in our SLE patients is observed over the past two decades.

Circulating exosome levels in the diagnosis of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head

OBJECTIVES

Circulating exosomes represent novel biomarkers for multiple diseases. In this study, we investigated whether circulating exosome levels could be used as a diagnostic biomarker for steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

We assessed the serum exosome level of 85 patients with steroid-induced ONFH and 115 healthy donors by Nanosight detection. We then assessed the diagnostic accuracy of serum exosomes by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS

The circulating exosome level of the ONFH group was significantly lower than that of control group. The area under the curve was 0.72, suggesting that the level of serum exosomes has moderate diagnostic accuracy for steroid-induced ONFH.

CONCLUSION

Circulating exosome levels are valuable in the diagnosis of steroid-induced ONFH.Cite this article: H-Y. Zhu, Y-C. Gao, Y. Wang, C-Q. Zhang. Circulating exosome levels in the diagnosis of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:276-279. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.56.BJR-2015-0014.R1.

Long-Term Outcome after Rehabilitation of Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty in Renal Transplant Recipient - A Case Report

INTRODUCTION:

Total hip replacement is generally proposed for renal transplant patients with avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the study is to report the long-term outcome after rehabilitation of bilateral total hip arthroplasty in a patient with renal transplantation suffering from avascular osteonecrosis of the both femoral heads.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

The patient S.D, 49 years old at follow-up. Few months after renal transplantation, the patient had got avascular osteonecrosis of both femoral head. One year after transplantation the total hip arthroplasty for both hip joints were performed. Three years later repeat total hip arthroplasty surgery for left hip was performed. After any surgery intervention the patient was referred for inpatient rehabilitation. For clinical assessment the clinical findings and Harris Hip Score have been used. The rehabilitation program consisted of exercises, occupational therapy, and patient education.

RESULTS:

After any rehabilitation treatment the patient had improvement of clinical findings. At follow-up assessment outcome for both hip function was good - Harris Hip Score was 81 points.

CONCLUSION:

Rehabilitation is integral part of multidisciplinary treatment of renal transplant recipient after total hip arthroplasty. Regular exercise training of these patients is very important for improving of their long-term outcome.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

High-Dose Corticosteroid Use and Risk of Hip Osteonecrosis: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Literature Review

The effect of varying corticosteroid regimens on hip osteonecrosis incidence remains unclear. We performed a meta-analysis and systematic literature review to determine osteonecrosis occurrences in patients taking corticosteroids at varying mean and cumulative doses and treatment durations, and whether medical diagnoses affected osteonecrosis incidence. Fifty-seven studies (23,561 patients) were reviewed. Regression analysis determined significance between corticosteroid usage and osteonecrosis incidence. Osteonecrosis incidence was 6.7% with corticosteroid treatment of >2 g (prednisone-equivalent). Systemic lupus erythematosus patients had positive correlations between dose and osteonecrosis incidence. Each 10 mg/d increase was associated with a 3.6% increase in osteonecrosis rate, and >20 mg/d resulted in a higher osteonecrosis incidence. Clinicians must be wary of osteonecrosis in patients on high corticosteroid regimens, particularly in systematic lupus erythematosus.

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head: diagnosis and classification systems

Osteonecrosis of femoral head is a rare but disabling condition that usually results in progressive femoral head collapse and secondary arthritis necessitating total hip arthroplasty if not treated appropriately in early stages. However, early diagnosis is challenging as the onset of disease is insidious and the symptoms and signs are usually minimal and nonspecific until it becomes advanced. Of several diagnostic modalities, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the imaging method of choice with the highest sensitivity and specificity, while detection of potential risk factors is very important as well. Many investigators have developed several different classification systems; however, there still is controversy regarding the optimal classification system. Diagnostic methods and the evolution of different classification systems will be reviewed in this paper.

Fast sequences MR imaging at the investigation of painful skeletal sites in patients with hip osteonecrosis

BACKGROUND

Multiple osteonecrotic foci can be clinically silent when located in metaphyses and becomes painful when it affects juxta-articular areas. The purpose of this study was to assess the value of fast MR imaging to depict the underlying pathology in cases with skeletal pain other than the already diagnosed hip osteonecrosis.

METHODS/DESIGN

Between 2008 and 2013, 49 patients with already diagnosed hip osteonecrosis reported symptoms of deep skeletal pain in an anatomical site different from the affected hip joint. All patients after thorough history & clinical examination underwent evaluation with x-rays and a single fat suppressed sequence with MR Imaging applying either T2-w TSE or STIR-TSE at the painful site. False positive and false negative findings were recorded for the conventional x-rays and compared to MRI.

DISCUSSION

Forty four (89.8%) patients were positive for osteonecrotic lesions in this study and 76 symptomatic osteonecrosis lesions were revealed at 14 distinct anatomic sites. The agreement between the x-ray findings and the MR imaging regarding osteonecrosis was 46.9%. Plain x-rays showed 43.4% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value and 10.4% negative predictive value. Fast MR imaging with fat suppressed sequences is necessary and adequate as a single method for the investigation of painful skeletal sites in patients with already diagnosed hip osteonecrosis. It allows early diagnosis of the potentially debilitating multiple juxta-articular lesions and consequently their prompt management.

Glucocorticoids (as an Etiologic Factor)

Adrenocortical hormones were first prepared from the adrenal gland as a new compound by Kendall in 1935 [1]. Thirteen years later, Hench et al. [2] observed a miraculous effect of cortisone in a patient with severe rheumatoid arthritis, which opened new doors to innovative treatments for a variety of inflammatory diseases. Against this background, Kendall, Hench, and Reichstein were awarded the 1950 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine. Since then, glucocorticoids have been used as a first-line therapy for immune-mediated conditions or as an adjunctive therapy in many inflammatory, infectious, or malignant diseases.

Glucocorticoid-induced avascular bone necrosis: diagnosis and management

Glucocorticoid use is one of the most important causes of avascular bone necrosis (AVN). The pathogenesis of glucocorticoid-induced AVN is not fully understood but postulated mechanisms include fat hypertrophy, fat emboli and intravascular coagulation that cause impedance of blood supply to the bones. Data regarding the relationship between AVN and dosage, route of administration and treatment duration of glucocorticoids are conflicting, with some studies demonstrating the cumulative dose of glucocorticoid being the most important determining factor. Early recognition of this complication is essential as the prognosis is affected by the stage of the disease. Currently, there is no consensus on whether universal screening of asymptomatic AVN should be performed for long-term glucocorticoid users. A high index of suspicion should be exhibited for bone and joint pain at typical sites. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or bone scintigraphy is more sensitive than plain radiograph for diagnosing early-stage AVN. Conservative management of AVN includes rest and reduction of weight bearing. Minimization of glucocorticoid dose or a complete withdrawal of the drug should be considered if the underlying conditions allow. The efficacy of bisphosphonates in reducing the rate of collapse of femoral head in AVN is controversial. Surgical therapy of AVN includes core decompression, osteotomy, bone grafting and joint replacement. Recent advances in the treatment of AVN include the use of tantalum rod and the development of more wear resistant bearing surface in hip arthroplasty.

Immunosuppressant-related hip pain after orthotopic liver transplant

OBJECTIVES

Immunosuppressant-related hip pain can greatly affect a patient's mobility and increase the number of total hip arthroplasties. We investigated risk factors and causes of hip pain after orthotopic liver transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of 175 adult orthotopic liver transplant patients, who were followed-up for more than 2 years, were retrospectively reviewed. Data collected from the records included primary disease, medications, biochemical results, Child-Turcotte-Pugh score, death, rejection, and complications related to liver transplant.

RESULTS

A total of 11 patients (6.3%) complained of hip pain, which was diagnosed as calcineurin-inhibitor-induced pain syndrome in 4 patients (2.3%), osteonecrosis of the femoral head in 3 patients (1.7%), and osteoporosis in 2 patients (1.1%). The incidence of calcineurin-inhibitor-induced pain syndrome was related to the dosage of tacrolimus (P > .05) but independent of methylprednisolone use. The occurrence of osteonecrosis of the femoral head was independent of the dosage and early withdrawal of methylprednisolone (P > .05). Patients with methylprednisolone withdrawal within 6 months had significantly longer survival than those using methylprednisolone for more than 6 months (50 ± 15 vs 41 ± 18 mo; P = .007).

CONCLUSIONS

Calcineurin-inhibitor-induced pain syndrome and osteonecrosis of the femoral head are main causes of hip pain in adult orthotopic liver transplant patients. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head was not common, but the incidence of hip pain owing to calcineurin-inhibitor-induced pain syndrome was relatively high in orthotopic liver transplant patients. Early withdrawal of methylprednisolone could benefit the patients' survival.

Correlation of cumulative corticosteroid treatment with magnetic resonance imaging assessment of avascular femoral head necrosis in patients with multiple sclerosis

Increased risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and avascular necrosis (AVN) has been suggested in multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients with MS are often exposed to corticosteroid treatment (CST) during the disease course and conflicting reports exist regarding complications of CST. Our study aims to investigate the association between cumulative doses of CST and radiographic evaluation of AVN of the femoral head in MS. Twenty-six MS patients (mean age, 38.4±10 yr) were enrolled and prospectively evaluated for AVN by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The mean disease duration was 11.5±8.5 years and mean expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score was 3±2. The cumulative dosage of CST varied between 20 g and 60 g; patients were grouped into two categories: 1) CST between 20–40 g, 17 (65%) patients; 2) CST ≥40 g; 9 (35%) patients. The relationship between cumulative CST dosage and MRI diagnosis of AVN was statistically insignificant (P>0.9). Clarification of the cumulative effect of CST in the development of AVN is of great importance for future long-term steroid treatment strategies.

Steroid induced osteonecrosis: An analysis of steroid dosing risk

Osteonecrosis is a serious condition involving bone destruction that frequently requires surgical treatment to rebuild the joint. While there is an abundance of literature documenting corticosteroid related osteonecrosis, there is no consensus as to the relative risk of osteonecrosis after administration of steroids via parenteral, oral, topical, inhaled and other routes. This risk is an important prognostic indicator because identification and conservative intervention can potentially reduce morbidity associated with aggressive surgical treatment of osteonecrosis. This paper provides insight into establishing guidelines related to the risk of developing osteonecrosis as a result of corticosteroid use. Case studies, retrospective studies and prospective studies in humans on different corticosteroids and varied dosages were assessed. Most cases of osteonecrosis are secondary to systemically administered corticosteroids and/or high dose daily therapy, particularly in patients with underlying comorbidities including connective tissue diseases, hyperlipidemia, or previous trauma. Previous case reports of osteonecrosis related to inhaled or topical use of steroids are complicated by the fact that in the great majority of cases, the patients are also treated with systemic steroids prior to the development of osteonecrosis. Based on the literature, a set of recommendations regarding the risk of osteonecrosis in patients on steroids was formulated.

[Avascular necrosis of the bone after organ transplantation]

Avascular bone necrosis under immunosuppressive therapy is a well known sequel following solid organ transplantation. Most cases affect hip, knees or shoulders in more than one location and occur in connection with the use of high-dose steroids. In this 50 year old female immunosuppressive therapy consisted of sirolimus and mycophenolate mofetil after a renal transplantation 2 years ago. Steroids had been completely withdrawn after avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Physical examination revealed a reddened and painful left ankle. C-reactive protein was elevated while autoimmune antibodies, rheumatoid factor and screening for reactive arthritis remained negative. Joint fluid examination ruled out infection or gout. Plain radiographs were normal. Under the presumptive diagnosis of erysipelas antibiotic therapy was started, however, without success. Magnetic resonance imaging finally revealed bilateral tibial and tarsal bone necrosis as the underlying cause. In conclusion, avascular bone necrosis should remain an important differential diagnosis in patients with bone or joint pain and a history of organ transplantation, regardless of the present use of steroid therapy.

Impact of oral corticosteroid use for idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a nationwide multicenter case-control study in Japan

BACKGROUND

Previous studies on corticosteroid use and idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONF) have been conducted involving patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and renal transplantation, among other disorders, which make it possible only to compare high- and low-dose corticosteroids. The main objective here was to estimate the impact of oral corticosteroid use for idiopathic ONF compared to nonuse of corticosteroids. In addition, we investigated the relations between underlying medical conditions and idiopathic ONF.

METHODS

A nationwide multicenter case-control study was conducted in Japan. Cases were defined as patients who visited the cooperative orthopedic department after January 2002 and received a diagnosis of idiopathic ONF after the visit. For each case, up to five matched controls were selected from among patients without idiopathic ONF who consulted the same orthopedic department after the visit of the identified case. The matching conditions were sex, age (5-year age groups), and ethnicity. The subjects' demographic and anthropometric data and histories of medications, diseases, alcohol consumption, and smoking were collected by a structured self-administered questionnaire. A conditional logistic regression model was used to obtain the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 73 cases and 250 matched controls completed the questionnaire. After adjustment for the potential confounders, the multivariate OR of oral corticosteroid use compared to nonuse was 20.3 (95% CI 6.73-61.5). Furthermore, a positive association of liver disease with idiopathic ONF was observed with marginal significance (multivariate OR 3.53, 95% CI 0.88-14.1) regardless of oral corticosteroid use, alcohol consumption, and smoking.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings first revealed the impact of oral corticosteroid use for idiopathic ONF compared to nonuse. However, because the regimen of corticosteroid therapy (dose and duration) could not be assessed, further study is required. An independent role of liver disease was also suggested.

Curative effect and safety of vascularized fibula grafting in renal transplant recipients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head: three case reports

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a common and severe complication after renal transplantation. It is characterized by deterioration of hip joint function, which impairs quality of life. We present 3 renal transplant case reports of patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head who underwent free vascularized fibular grafting at our hospital. Follow-up was from 1(1/2) to 2 years. All 3 patients exhibited good recovery with substantial improvement in joint function. Intraoperative and postoperative findings demonstrated the safety of this surgical procedure.

Osteonecrosis in kidney recipients: has hypocalcaemia a role?

In a previous study, the musculoskeletal affections among kidney recipients (KR) were reported, with 63 KR suffering from joint affections. We sought to determine the prevalence of osteonecrosis (ON) among those KR with joint affections, its distribution among the affected joints, and possible risk predictors. KR were subjected to biochemical, haematological, and hepatitis serology estimations. Radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging were performed. Relevant data were retrieved from Patient Information System. Fourteen KR were suffering from ON, with an incidence of 22.2% in KR with joint affections and 12.0% in the target population of KR. The femoral head was affected in 57.1% and the femoral condyles in 28.6%. Hypocalcaemia was observed in KR with ON. Whether hypocalcaemia is a causative or associative of ON yet remains to be decided in forthcoming studies.

Does statin usage reduce the risk of corticosteroid-related osteonecrosis in renal transplant population?

The relationship between corticosteroids and osteonecrosis is well known. Limited data suggest that statins modulate cholesterol metabolism and may protect against osteonecrosis. The authors analyzed their prospective renal transplant database to determine if statin usage reduces the incidence of corticosteroid-related osteonecrosis and identified 2,881 renal transplantation patients who met the entry criteria. Among 338 patients on statins, 15 (4.4%) developed osteonecrosis, versus 180 of 2,543 (7%) patients who were not on statins. Osteonecrosis-free survival was similar in patients with and without statin exposure.