Total hip arthroplasty through an anterior approach: The pros and cons

Indirect comparison in network meta-analysis between SuperPATH, direct anterior and conventional approach hemiarthroplasty in patients with femoral neck fracture

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to compare the short-term outcome of SuperPATH, direct anterior (DAA) and conventional approach (CA) hemiarthroplasty (HA) in patients with femoral neck fractures using a network meta-analysis.

METHODS

PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Epistemonikos, and Embase were searched until May 31, 2024. In a network meta-analysis, mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman method and a fixed/random effects model for continuous outcomes, and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel method and a fixed/random effects model for dichotomous outcomes.

RESULTS

The literature search identified a total of 9 randomized controlled trials on SuperPATH with 762 patients and 8 randomized controlled trials on DAA with 641 patients. In the overall ranking, SuperPATH was placed first, DAA second and CA third. SuperPATH HA was best in 7, second best in 2 and third best in 1 of the 10 outcome parameters. DAA HA was best in 2 and second best in 8 of the 10 outcome parameters. CA HA was best in 1 and third best in 9 of the 10 outcome parameters. In the indirect comparison between SuperPATH HA and DAA HA, SuperPATH HA had a 1.36 point lower visual analog scale at 2 to 7 days postoperatively and a 0.17 lower overall complication rate compared to DAA.

CONCLUSION

For the treatment of patients with femoral neck fractures, SuperPATH HA ranked first, DAA HA ranked second and CA HA ranked third. Based on the results, we recommend that trauma surgeons increase their use of minimally invasive hip HA techniques. It should be noted that SuperPATH HA had a significantly lower overall complication rate compared to DAA HA when the minimally invasive technique was chosen.

Motion acquisition of gait characteristics one week after total hip arthroplasty: a factor analysis

INTRODUCTION

Clinical gait analysis can be used to evaluate the recovery process of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). The postoperative walking patterns of these patients can be significantly influenced by the choice of surgical approach, as each procedure alters distinct anatomical structures. The aim of this study is twofold. The first objective is to develop a gait model to describe the change in ambulation one week after THA. The secondary goal is to describe the differences associated with the surgical approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six patients undergoing THA with lateral (n = 9), anterior (n = 15), and posterior (n = 12) approaches were included in the study. Walking before and 7 days after surgery was recorded using a markerless motion capture system. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), a data reduction technique, condensed 21 spatiotemporal gait parameters to a smaller set of dominant variables. The EFA-derived gait domains were utilized to study post-surgical gait variations and to compare the post-surgical gait among the three groups.

RESULTS

Four distinct gait domains were identified. The most pronounced variation one week after surgery is in the Rhythm (gait cycle time: + 32.9 % ), followed by Postural control (step width: + 27.0 % ), Phases (stance time: + 11.0 % ), and Pace (stride length: -  9.3 % ). In postsurgical walking, Phases is statistically significantly different in patients operated with the posterior approach compared to lateral (p-value = 0.017) and anterior (p-value = 0.002) approaches. Furthermore, stance time in the posterior approach group is significantly lower than in healthy individuals (p-value < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified a four-component gait model specific to THA patients. The results showed that patients after THA have longer stride time but shorter stride length, wider base of support, and longer stance time, although the posterior group had a statistically significant shorter stance time than the others. The findings of this research have the potential to simplify the reporting of gait outcomes, reduce redundancy, and inform targeted interventions in regards to specific gait domains.

Dislocation Following Anterior and Posterior Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Setting of Spinal Deformity and Stiffness: Evolving Trends Using a High-Risk Protocol at a Single Tertiary Center

BACKGROUND

Patients who have spinal stiffness and deformity are at the highest risk for dislocation after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Previous reports of this cohort are limited to antero-lateral and postero-lateral (PL) approaches. We investigated the dislocation rate after direct anterior (DA) and PL approach THA with a contemporary high-risk protocol to optimize stability.

METHODS

We investigated patients undergoing THA who had preoperative biplanar imaging from January-December 2019. Patients were identified using radiographic criteria of spinal-stiffness (<10-degree change in sacral slope from standing to seated) and deformity (flatback deformity with >10-degree difference in pelvic incidence and lumbar lordosis). There were 367 patients identified (181 DA, 186 PL). The primary outcome was dislocation rate at 2-years postoperatively. Risk-factors for dislocation were evaluated using logistic regressions (significance level of 0.05).

RESULTS

There were 6 (1.6%) dislocations in the entire cohort, with low dislocation rates for both DA (0.6%) and PL-THA (2.7%). We observed increased utilization of dual mobility with larger outer head bearings (>38 mm) with PL-THA (34.4 versus 5.0%, P < .01) and conversely increased utilization of 32-mm femoral-heads with DA-THA (39.4 versus 7.0%, P < .001). Surgical approach (PL) was not a significant risk-factor for dislocation (odds ratio: 5.03, P = .15). Patients who had a history of lumbar-fusion had 8-times higher odds for dislocation (OR: 8.20, P = .020).

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest series to date evaluating DA and PL-THA in the hip-spine 2B-group. Our results demonstrate lower dislocation rate than expected with either surgical approach using a high-risk protocol.

Management of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome After Total Hip Arthroplasty: Practice Patterns and Surgeon Attitudes

INTRODUCTION

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) or trochanteric bursitis is described as pain on the lateral side of the hip that does not involve the hip joint and can be elicited clinically by palpation over the greater trochanter. To date, there remains no consensus on clinical guidelines for either diagnosis or management of GTPS.

METHODS

To understand the practice patterns, beliefs, and attitudes relating to the management of GTPS after total hip arthroplasty, a survey was developed and completed by Canadian arthroplasty surgeons. The final survey consisted of 23 questions divided into three sections: 1) screening questions; 2) demographic information; and 3) practice patterns, attitudes, and beliefs.

RESULTS

Most surgeons use physical examination alone for diagnosis. A detailed analysis indicates that surgeons primarily treat GTPS with oral anti-inflammatories (57.1%), structured physiotherapy (52.4%), and steroid injections (45.2%). Management options are typically nonsurgical and comprise a combination of either unstructured or targeted physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections, or platelet-rich plasma.

DISCUSSION

There remains an absence of clinical consensus for the diagnosis and management of GTPS after total hip arthroplasty. Physical examination is most often relied on, regardless of the availability of imaging aids. While common treatments of GTPS were identified, up to one-third of patients fail initial therapy.

Complications and early recovery following hip hemiarthroplasty through the direct anterior approach: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Minimizing complications is an important focus in hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA) for femoral neck fracture (FNF) patients given the associated high morbidity and mortality rates. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical and functional outcomes associated with the direct anterior approach (DAA) compared to other surgical approaches used for HHA.

METHODS

Studies evaluating HHA-treated FNFs using the DAA were compared through meta-analysis to all other surgical approaches combined and as distinct subgroups. Outcomes included overall complication rate, mortality rate, dislocation rate, reoperation rate, periprosthetic fracture rate, infection rate, length of stay (LOS), mobility, perioperative blood loss, operative time, and postoperative pain.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria, totaling 2,018 HHAs. DAA significantly reduced the overall complication rate (odds ratio (OR) = 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 0.94, p = 0.01), dislocation rate (OR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.77, p = 0.01), and LOS (mean difference (MD) = -1.31 days, 95% CI  - 2.12 to  - 0.50, p = 0.002). Findings from studies that were not appropriate for meta-analysis were qualitatively summarized and suggested improved mobility and reduced postoperative pain with the DAA. Significant differences were not detected in any of the remaining outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The DAA HHA appears to be safer, reduces hospital stay, and may improve early functional recovery. This article supports the DAA HHA as a safe option for the management of displaced intracapsular FNFs.

Real-world 2-year clinical and economic outcomes among patients receiving a medial collared, triple tapered primary hip system versus other implants for total hip arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate real-world outcomes of patients receiving ACTIS, a medial collared, triple-tapered (MCTT) hip system vs. other implants, for primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

Patients with THA between 2016-2021 from Mercy Healthcare Systems-Orthopedics Database were evaluated. The primary outcome was the 2-year revision. Secondary outcomes included operating room (OR) time, length of stay (LOS), and discharge disposition. Fine Stratification and Weighting (FSW) controlled for baseline characteristic differences between ACTIS and other implant groups. Cox proportional regression evaluated the hazard ratio (HR) for revision.

RESULTS

Among 9,225 patients with 10,205 THAs (mean [SD] age 66.8 [11.3] years, 56.0% female), MCTT was implanted in 1,591 hips and other implants in 8,614 hips. The balanced cohort included all 10,205 procedures (54.2% female; age 65.5 [11.3]; 14.1% Elixhauser index ≥5; 84.5% MCTT, 82.2% other since 2018; obesity 43.6% MCTT, 43.0% other). Two-year revision was 0.9% for MCTT and 1.8% for other implants (p = .021). HR for revision MCTT vs. other was 0.53 (95% CI 0.30-0.92; p = .023). Mean (SD) OR time was 69.07 (18.93) minutes for MCTT, 83.69 (43.88) for other implants (p < .001). LOS was 1.99 (1.15) days for MCTT, 2.45 (2.91) for other implants (p < .001). MCTT patients were more likely to be discharged home (90.7% vs 33.8%, p < .001) and less likely to be discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNF) (4.2% vs 9.6%, p < .001). One-year cost savings per patient with MCTT was projected at $2,342.

CONCLUSIONS

MCTT patients had fewer revisions, reduced OR time, shorter LOS, more home and less SNF discharge, leading to cost savings.

Acute total hip replacement by direct anterior approach combined with intrapelvic fixation for geriatric acetabular fracture of the anterior column

Management of anterior column acetabular fracture in the elderly is challenging. Open reduction and internal fixation do not allow early weight bearing and are associated with a high risk of failure compared to younger patients. Therefore, acute fixation and total hip arthroplasty may be an option. This technical note describes a combined procedure: anterior intrapelvic approach for fracture fixation and a direct anterior approach to the hip for THR. Fracture reduction and arthroplasty were achievable in all five patients. The mean operative time was 289min, and the mean blood loss was 2120mL. At short term, no complication was noticed. Combining these two "muscle-sparing" approaches could help manage anterior column fractures in elderly patients. Level of evidence: IV.

Direct Anterior Approach Provides Superior Prosthesis Adaptability in the Early Postoperative Period of Total Hip Arthroplasty

OBJECTIVES

Prosthesis awareness is the perception of foreign bodies, which has a critical effect on the function of the prosthetic joint. In total hip arthroplasty (THA), the direct anterior approach (DAA) has more advantages than the posterior approach (PA), including superior rehabilitation outcomes. This study was to evaluate the recovery of "prosthesis awareness" through these two approaches.

METHODS

Three hundred and seventy-six patients who received THA with either DAA (n = 41) or PA (n = 335) from January 2016 to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12), Harris hip score (HHS), and visual analog scale (VAS) analyses were used to evaluate the recovery of "prosthesis awareness" in these patients 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. The student t-test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, chi-square test, and MANOVA were used to compare the differences among groups.

RESULTS

We found that DAA patients had higher FJS-12 scores than PA patients at 2 weeks (42.15 ± 3.36 vs. 38.09 ± 3.28, p = 0.042), 1 month (49.06 ± 5.14 vs. 41.11 ± 5.21, p = 0.038), and 3 months (53.23 ± 4.07 vs. 48.09 ± 3.71, t = 3.152, p = 0.045). And the recovery rates of FJS-12 scores in DAA and PA groups at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery were 75.46% ± 6.04%, 84.05% ± 6.57%, 91.37% ± 7.13%, and 74.14% ± 5.54%, 78.16% ± 6.01%, 88.23% ± 6.42%, respectively. To compare the recovery effects of the two procedures in more detail, we classified the 12 items in FJS-12 that evaluate different types of gravity center motions into three categories: low-movement group (LG), middle-movement group (MG), and high-movement group (HG). Interestingly, DAA patients had significantly higher HG than PA patients at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after operation (t = 3.225, p = 0.022 at 2 weeks, t = 3.081, p = 0.041 at 1 month and t = 2.783, p = 0.046 at 3 months), whereas no significant differences were observed in LG- and MG-related items. In addition, there were no significant differences in HHS and VAS scores between DAA and PA patients at 2 weeks (p = 0.102, p = 0.093), or from 1 month to 12 months (each p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DAA-mediated THA is superior to PA in terms of prosthesis adaptability and recovery of hip joint motion in the first 3 months after surgery, especially concerning high-movement gravity center motions.

How do dislocation rates differ between different approaches to total hip arthroplasty? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Different surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) exist, without predisposition when it comes to dislocation risk. The direct anterior approach (DAA) is thought to have reduced risk since soft tissue trauma is minimalized. Therefore, we assessed the dislocation risk for different surgical approaches, and the relative dislocation risk of DAA compared to other approaches. Methods: Six electronic databases were systematically searched for prospective studies reporting dislocation following THA. Proportion meta-analyses were performed to assess the dislocation rate for subgroups of the surgical approach. Meta-analysis for binary outcomes was performed to determine the relative risk of dislocation for the DAA compared to other approaches. Results: Eleven studies with 2025 patients were included (mean age 64.6 years, 44% male, mean follow-up 10.5 months), of which four studies were also used in the risk ratio meta-analysis. Overall dislocation rate was 0.79% (95% CI 0.37–1.69). Subgroup analyses showed that most dislocations occurred in the posterior approaches group (1.38%), however non-significant. Furthermore, the DAA emerged with a non-significant lower risk of dislocation (RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.05–2.46) compared to other surgical approaches. Conclusion: Current literature shows non-significant predisposition for a surgical approach to THA regarding dislocation risk. To what extent patient characteristics influence the risk of dislocation could not be determined. Future research should focus on this, as well as on the influence of a surgeon's experience with a specific approach.

Clinical efficacy of direct anterior approach vs. other surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on RCTs

BACKGROUND

Direct anterior approach (DAA) is an accurate technique for total hip arthroplasty (THA) through the muscle gap. Physicians who apply DAA believe that it accelerates patient recovery and results in lower rates of postoperative dislocation. However, the traditional surgical approach adherents believe that it is shorter and has fewer complications than DAA.

METHODS

We use the method of META analysis to organize and analyze the data of the randomized controlled studies (RCT) obtained after our screening. To compare the clinical efficacy of DAA approach and other surgical approaches for THA.

RESULTS

After rigorous screening, 15 RCT studies were included in our study, and data were extracted. The study included 1,450 patients from 15 RCTs, with a mean age of 63 years and a distribution of 52-67 years. Six weeks after the operation, the Harris hip score of the DAA approach improved by an average of 4.06 points (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.54 -5.59, P < 0.01, I ² = 45%, which can significantly improve the clinical efficacy of patients. However, the 0.61 points [95% confidence interval (CI) -1.13 -2.34, P > 0.01, I ²= 0%] at 3 months and 1.49 points [95% confidence interval (CI) -1.65 -2.25, P > 0.01, I ²= 0%] at 12 months postoperatively. In terms of dislocation rate, results show that the use of DAAs does not reduce Dislocation Rate with significant statistical heterogeneity among study groups (95% CI 0.18-2.94 P > 0.001, I ²= 0%).

CONCLUSION

The hip function of DAA was superior to posterolateral approach (PLA) and latera approach (LA) in the early days after hip replacement, especially within six weeks. However, at six months or more after surgery, the difference was not significant. The DAA did not show a lower rate of dislocation than other surgical approaches.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO.

MRI assessment of minimally invasive anterolateral approaches in total hip arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) on a minimally invasive anterolateral (MIAL) approach frequently leads to gluteus minimus and gluteus medius lesions, and sometimes to tensor fasciae latae (TFL) denervation. We therefore developed compensatory strategies, which we assessed on pre- and post-operative MRI: 1) to assess gluteus minimus and gluteus medius fatty infiltration (FI), 2) to assess TFL FI, and 3) to assess FI in the other periarticular muscles.

HYPOTHESIS

The modified MIAL approach reduces the rate of gluteus minimus and gluteus medius lesion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A continuous prospective single-surgeon series of THA using a MIAL approach included 25 patients. Femoral implantation was performed with the hip in extension so as to distance the proximal femur from the gluteals, avoiding muscle trauma. The superior gluteal nerve branch in the space between the gluteus medius and TFL, running toward the TFL, was systematically released and protected. MRI was performed preoperatively and at 3 months and 1 year post-surgery. FI was analyzed according to the Goutallier classification in all periarticular muscles.

RESULTS

One patient lacked preoperative MRI and was excluded, leaving 24 patients, for 72 MRIs. In 10/24 patients (41.7%) the gluteus minimus and in 8/24 patients (33.3%) the anterior third of the gluteus medius showed ≥2 grade increase in FI between preoperative and 1-year MRI, with significant increases in both at 3 months (p<0.001) and 1 year (p<0.001). At least a 2 grade increase in FI at 1 year was seen in 1 patient (4.2%) in the TFL, in 2 (8.3%) in the piriformis, and in 1 (4.2%) in the obturator internus. There were no significant differences in FI between preoperative, 3-month or 1-year MRI in any other periarticular muscles.

CONCLUSION

Femoral implantation in hip extension did not reduce the rate of gluteal lesions, which remained frequent. In contrast, release of the superior gluteal nerve branch could be effective in conserving TFL innervation. Some rare lesions of the proximal part of the pelvi-trochanteric muscles were also observed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, Prospective case series.

Periprosthetic joint infection rates across primary total hip arthroplasty surgical approaches: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 653,633 procedures

INTRODUCTION

Evidence demonstrates comparable clinical outcomes across the various surgical approaches to primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, high-quality contemporary data regarding periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) risk between direct anterior approach (DAA) and other (THA) approaches is lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated PJI rates reported in the literature between the DAA and other approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five online databases were queried for all studies published from January 1st, 2000 through February 17th, 2021 that reported PJI rates between DAA and other surgical approaches. Studies reporting on primary THAs for osteoarthritis (OA) and that included PJI rates segregated by surgical approach were included. Articles reporting on revision THA, alternative THA etiologies, or minimally invasive techniques were excluded. Mantel-Haenszel (M-H) models were utilized to evaluate the pooled effect of surgical approach on infection rates. Validated risk of bias and methodological quality assessment tools were applied to each study. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness of analyses.

RESULTS

28 articles reporting on 653,633 primary THAs were included. No differences were found between DAA cohorts and combined other approaches (OR: 0.95; 95% CI 0.74-1.21; p = 0.67) as well as segregated anterolateral approach cohorts (OR: 0.82, 95% CI 0.64-1.06; p = 0.13). However, DAA patients had a significantly reduced risk of infection compared to those undergoing posterior (OR: 0.66, 95% CI 0.58-0.74; p < 0.0001) and direct lateral (OR: 0.56, 95% CI 0.48-0.65; p < 0.00001) approaches.

CONCLUSION

The DAA to primary THA had comparable or lower PJI risk when compared to other contemporary approaches. The results of the most up-to-date evidence available serve to encourage adult reconstruction surgeons who have already adopted the DAA. Additionally, orthopaedic surgeons considering adoption or use of the direct anterior approach for other reasons should not be dissuaded over theoretical concern for a general increase in the risk of PJI.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Intraoperative Imaging in Total Hip Arthroplasty Is Cost-Effective Regardless of Surgical Approach

BACKGROUND

Component positioning in total hip arthroplasty (THA) may be improved with utilization of intraoperative imaging. The purpose of this study is to determine if intraoperative imaging during THA is cost-effective.

METHODS

A break-even analysis was used as a model for cost-effectiveness, which incorporates cost of imaging (including direct charges and the additional time required for imaging), rate of revision surgery, and cost of revision surgery, yielding a final revision rate that needs to be achieved with use of intraoperative imaging in order for its use to be cost-effective. Absolute risk reduction (ARR) is determined by the difference between the initial revision rate and final revision rate.

RESULTS

At an anticipated institutional cost of $120 and requiring 4 additional minutes, intraoperative fluoroscopy would be cost-effective if the baseline rate of revision due to component mispositioning (0.62%) is reduced to 0.46%. Intraoperative flat plate radiographs ($127) are cost-effective at an ARR of 0.16%. Cost-effectiveness is achieved with lower ARR in the setting of lower imaging costs ($15, ARR 0.02%), and higher ARR with higher imaging costs ($225, ARR 0.29%). ARR for cost-effectiveness is independent of baseline revision rate, but varies with the cost of revision procedures.

CONCLUSION

At current revision rates for component malpositioning, only 1 revision among 400 THAs needs to be prevented for the utilization of fluoroscopy (or 1 in 385 THAs with flat plate imaging), to achieve cost-effectiveness.

A comparative of a single novice surgeon's direct anterior approach and posterior approach learning curves in total hip arthroplasty: a retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the present study was to compare a novice surgeon's learning curves with the direct anterior approach and posterior approach in total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 376 total hip arthroplasties performed from November 2014 to September 2019 in a level-one healthcare center by a single surgeon (V.B) were retrospectively studied. Demographic data, functional outcomes, and complications were collected and compared.

RESULTS

Within the ranks of the patients studied, we found differences between groups with respect to dislocation rate and length of stay; these were lower in the direct anterior approach (DAA) group. The approach was not associated with an increase in complications, but rather with a decrease in the rate of dislocations and better functional outcomes at 1-year follow-up. Operative time was initially higher with this approach, but equalized during the learning curve.

CONCLUSION

The DAA can be safe even in the early stages of a novice surgeon's learning curve. It does not present a higher complication rate than the posterior approach, either in infection rate or in periprosthetic fractures. However, the DAA may provide greater functionality, lower dislocation rate and a shorter hospital stay. It can also be concluded that after having performed a certain number of interventions, operative time for the DAA can be comparable to that of other approaches.

Anterior approach to hip replacement and associated complications: an independent review

BACKGROUND

Direct anterior approach (DAA) to hip replacement is increasingly popular. Despite the well-published benefits of early recovery, the approach can be associated with a number of complications that may be underreported. We aim to report the incidence of some of these complications in a large retrospective case series.

METHODS

270 consecutive DAA hip replacements are studied which are performed by a single high-volume hip surgeon from 2013 to 2015, not including the surgeon's learning curve. Operation and consultation records were screened, and focused questioning via telephone was employed to capture specific complications including dislocations, wound infections, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury and revision surgery.

RESULTS

240 of 270 patients or family were contactable. The mean age and body mass index of the cohort was 66 (range 30-89) years and 27 (range 18-40) kg/m2 respectively. The mean follow-up was 3.7 years. Wound issues were encountered in 24 patients (8.8%). There were 9 dislocations (3%). 27 (10%) patients needed revision surgery in the follow-up period. Reasons for revision included leg-length discrepancies, dislocations, ongoing pain and aseptic loosening. 9 (3.4%) patients had to return to operating theatre for reasons other than revision surgery. Symptoms of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury was reported by 54 patients (21%).

CONCLUSIONS

While the short-term benefits of DAA have been widely reported, our review shows a relatively high rate of revision surgery. We feel that the enthusiasm for DAA should be tempered until further evidence is available.

Finite element analysis of a hybrid corrugated hip implant for stability and loading during gait phases

Implants used in total hip replacements (THR) exhibit high failure rates and up to a decade of operational life. These surgical failures could be mainly attributed to the improper positioning, post-surgical stability and loading, of the implants during different phases of the gait. Typically, revised surgeries are suggested within a few years of hip implantation, which requires multiple femoral drilling operations to remove an existing implant, and to install a new implant. The pain and trauma associated with such procedures are also challenging with the existing hip implants. In this work, we designed a novel corrugated hip implant with innovative dimensioning as per ASTM standards, and grooves for directed insertion and removal (using a single femoral drilling and positioning operation). Biocompatible titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) was chosen as the implant material, and the novel implant was placed into a femur model through a virtual surgery to study its stability and loading during a dynamic gait cycle. A detailed mesh convergence study was conducted to select a computationally accurate finite element (FE) mesh. Tight fit and frictional fit attachment conditions were simulated, and the gait induced displacements and stresses on the implant, cortical and cancellous bone sections were characterized. During walking, the implant encountered the maximum von-Mises stress of 254.97 MPa at the femoral head. The analyses indicated low micro-motions (i.e., approximately 7μm) between the femur and implant, low stresses at the implant and bone within elastic limits, and uniform stress distribution, which unlike existing hip implants, would be indispensable for bone growth and implant stability enhancement, and also for reducing implant wear.

Stability in Direct Lateral vs Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Context of Lumbar Spinal Fusion

INTRODUCTION

Lumbar spinal fusion (LSF) may increase the risk of dislocation in patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially when the LSF was done before the THA. Most publications evaluated patients who had undergone THA using a posterior approach to the hip, yet there are little data on the influence of other surgical approaches. The goal of this study was to evaluate the risk of THA dislocation with anterior supine-based surgical approaches to the hip in patients who have undergone surgical management of concurrent hip and spine pathology.

METHODS

Patients older than 18 years who underwent an LSF and THA using a supine approach-either direct anterior (DA) or direct lateral (DL)-between 2000 and 2018 were identified. Only standard bearings (28-32-36-40 mm) were used. The dislocation rate was determined in this cohort. A subsequent analysis was conducted, stratifying patients based on the order in which they received the LSF or THA.

RESULTS

A total of 582 surgical hip-spine patients were retrospectively identified and included in the cohort. Of total, 332 patients (57.0%) received an LSF before the THA; 250 (43.0%) had the fusion after a primary hip replacement. There were 143 patients (24.6%) in the DA group and 439 (75.4%) in the DL group. Overall, there were five dislocations (0.9%) in the entire cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with simultaneous degenerative hip and lumbar spine pathology, anterior supine-based approaches demonstrate a low (<1%) risk of instability. Given the small number of total dislocation events (n = 5), additional analysis is warranted to assess the effect of different anterior approaches (DA versus DL) or timing of lumbar spinal surgery (before or after THA).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

An Online Learning Tool to Obtain, Optimize, and Interpret Radiographs During Total Hip Arthroplasty

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common orthopedic procedure which has been growing in popularity with the elderly population. With more surgeons completing anterior THAs, intraoperative radiographs have become commonplace. Unfortunately, there is a lack of education in regard to obtaining, optimizing, and interpreting these radiographs. The purpose of this study was to develop and test the efficacy of an online learning tool that medical students, residents, and C-arm technicians could use to improve their understanding of THA radiography. The learning tool taught users how to obtain an optimal AP pelvis radiograph and how to interpret radiographs so THA components could be placed in their optimal position. This learning tool was sent to medical students, orthopedic surgery residents, and C-arm technicians along with a pre-test, post-test, and feedback survey. Twenty users (eleven medical students and nine orthopedic surgery residents) completed the learning tool. Post-test scores (M=96.4%, SD=2.9%) were significantly greater than pre-test scores (M=68.3%, SD=23.9%) for all users (t=5.5069, P<.0001). The user's level of training was positively correlated with pre-test scores. Surveys from the users revealed that the learning tool provided significant learning opportunities, was relatively easy to understand, but was slightly too long. Users felt that this learning tool would be best suited for senior medical students, junior orthopedic surgery residents, and C-arm technicians. With the positive results of this study, the authors hope to further develop this learning tool for widespread adoption and to develop similar learning tools in the future.

The direct anterior approach to the hip: a useful tool in experienced hands or just another approach?

The direct anterior approach (DAA) to the hip was initially described in the nineteenth century and has been used sporadically for total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, recent increased interest in tissue-sparing and small incision arthroplasty has given rise to a sharp increase in the utilization of the DAA. Although some previous studies claimed that this approach results in less muscle damage and pain as well as rapid recovery, a paucity in the literature exists to conclusively support these claims. While the DAA may be comparable to other THA approaches, no evidence to date shows improved long-term outcomes for patients compared to other surgical approaches for THA. However, the advent of new surgical instruments and tables designed specifically for use with the DAA has made the approach more feasible for surgeons. In addition, the capacity to utilize fluoroscopy intraoperatively for component positioning is a valuable asset to the approach and can be of particular benefit for surgeons during their learning curve. An understanding of its limitations and challenges is vital for the safe employment of this technique. This review summarizes the pearls and pitfalls of the DAA for THA in order to improve the understanding of this surgical technique for hip replacement surgeons.

German surgeons' technical preferences for performing total hip arthroplasties: a survey from the National Endoprosthesis Society

PURPOSE

The goal of our study was to conduct an online survey that highlights patterns of practice during total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

The survey was conducted in June and August 2020. Three hundred thirteen members of the German Society for Endoprosthesis participated in the survey.

RESULTS

The anterolateral approach is by far the most popular approach used for primary total hip arthroplasty, followed by the anterior approach during minimally invasive (55% for the anterolateral and 29% for the anterior) and regular surgery (52% for the anterolateral and 20% for the anterior). Two-thirds of the orthopaedic surgeons do not use drainages during THA. Moreover, 80% of the survey participants routinely apply tranexamic acid during surgery. Surgeons who perform minimally invasive surgery for THA use more frequently fast-track-concepts for post-operative rehabilitation. According to the interviewees, the application of fast-track-concepts leads to reduced periods of hospital stay after THA.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that patterns of practice during THA in Germany are in line with the evidence provided by current literature. This study can be seen as a stimulus to conduct similar surveys in other countries in order to promote minimally invasive surgery for THA.

Direct anterior approach vs. SuperPATH vs. conventional approaches in total hip replacement: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Two minimally invasive approaches showed some advantages in outcomes compared to conventional approaches (CAs) - the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the supercapsular percutaneously assisted approach in THA (SuperPATH). To the best of our knowledge, these three approaches have never been ranked in a network meta-analysis (NMA) before. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and NMA of randomized controlled trials comparing short-term outcomes of DAA, SuperPATH and CAs in total hip joint arthroplasty (THA), using CAs as common comparator.

METHODS

A systematic literature search up to February 2021 was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DAA with CAs and SuperPATH with CAs in THA. We measured surgical, functional and radiological outcomes. A NMA, using frequentist methods was performed to assess treatment effects between DAA, SuperPATH and CAs. Information was borrowed from the above-mentioned RCTs, using the CA group as a common comparator.

RESULTS

A total of 24 RCTs involving 2,074 patients met the inclusion criteria, six trials with a level I evidence, 18 trials with level II evidence. SuperPATH reduced operation time (fixed effects model: MD=8.1, 95% CI: 5.7 to 10.4), incision length (fixed effects model: MD=2.7, 95%CI: 2.5 to 2.9; random effects model: MD=4.1, 95%CI: 0.6 to 7.6), intraoperative blood loss (fixed effects model: MD=157, 95%CI: 139.2 to 174.2; random effects model: MD=129, 95%CI: 11.5 to 245.7) and early pain intensity (VAS 1 day postoperatively with a fixed effects model: MD=0.8, 95%CI: 0.4 to 1.2) compared to DAA. The two approaches did not differ in functional outcome and in acetabular cup inclination positioning.

CONCLUSIONS

Our overall findings suggest that short-term outcomes of THA through SuperPATH were superior to DAA and CAs and that short-term outcomes of THA through DAA were superior to CAs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II; systematic review with level I studies and level II studies.

A meta-analysis on RCTs of direct anterior and conventional approaches in total hip arthroplasty

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analyses on short-term outcomes between total hip arthroplasty (THA) through direct anterior approach (DAA) compared to THA through conventional approaches (CAs) in treatment of hip diseases and fractures. We performed a systematic literature search up to March 1, 2021 to identify RCTs, comparing THA through DAA with THA through CAs. We calculated mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for continuous outcomes, using the DerSimonian and Laird method and a random effects model. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs for dichotomous outcomes, using the Mantel–Haenszel method and a random effects model. Ten RCTs met the criteria for final meta-analysis, involving 1053 patients. Four studies were blinded RCTs with a level I evidence, the other 6 studies were non-blinded RCTs with a level II evidence. DAA had a longer operation time than CAs (MD = 17.8, 95% CI  4.8 to 30.8); DAA had similar results compared to CAs for incision length (MD = − 1.1, 95% CI − 4.1 to 1.8), for intraoperative blood loss (MD = 67.2, 95% CI − 34.8 to 169.1), for HHS 3 months postoperatively (MD = 2.4, 95% CI − 0.7 to 5.5), for HHS 6 months postoperatively (MD = 0.8, 95% CI − 1.9 to 3.5), for HHS 12 months postoperatively (MD = 0.9, 95% CI − 0.7 to 2.5), for pain VAS 1 day postoperatively (MD = − 0.9, 95% CI − 2.0 to 0.15), for acetabular cup anteversion angle (MD = − 4.3, 95% CI − 5.2 to − 3.5), for acetabular cup inclination angle (MD = − 0.5, 95% CI − 2.1 to 1.1) and for postoperative complications (OR = 2.4, 95% CI 0.5 to 12.4). Considering the overall results of our meta-analysis, we can conclude that THA through DAA showed similar short-term surgical, functional, radiological outcomes and postoperative complications compared to THA through CAs.

A Unique Complication of Femoral Broach Fracture and Incarceration During Total Hip Arthroplasty

In recent years, total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach has been gaining popularity. It offers potential early advantages for less pain and quicker return of hip function; however, compared to other surgical approaches, it is associated with a more difficult femoral reconstruction. Inadequate femoral exposure during the direct anterior approach can result in suboptimal press fit, implant malalignment, and intraoperative fracture. This case report presents a unique complication of femoral broach failure and describes a simple technical solution that is feasible, cost-effective, and safe.

Direct anterior approach (DAA) vs. conventional approaches in total hip arthroplasty: A RCT meta-analysis with an overview of related meta-analyses

OBJECTIVES

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses on short-term outcomes between total hip arthroplasty (THA) through direct anterior approach (DAA) compared to THA through conventional (including anterior, anterolateral, lateral transgluteal, lateral transtrochanteric, posterior, and posterolateral) approaches (CAs) in treatment of hip diseases and fractures showed contradicting conclusions. Our aim was to draw definitive conclusions by conducting both a fixed and random model meta-analysis of quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and by comparison with related meta-analyses.

DESIGN

We performed a systematic literature search up to May 2020 to identify RCTs, comparing THA through DAA with THA through CAs and related meta-analyses. We conducted risk of bias and level of evidence assessment in accordance with the Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 tool and with the guidelines of the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. We estimated mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) through fixed and random effects models, using the DerSimonian and Laird method. Heterogeneity was assessed using tau-square (τ2). Our conclusions take into account the overall results from related meta-analyses.

RESULTS

Nine studies on THA through DAA met the criteria for final meta-analysis, involving 998 patients. Three studies were blinded RCTs with a level I evidence, the other 6 studies were non-blinded RCTs with a level II evidence. We came to the following results for THA through DAA compared to THA through CAs: operation time (I2 = 92%, p<0.01; fixed: MD = 15.1, 95% CI 13.1 to 17.1; random: MD = 18.1, 95% CI 8.6 to 27.5); incision length (I2 = 100%, p<0.01; fixed: MD = -2.9, 95% CI -3.0 to -2.8; MD = -1.1, 95% CI -4.3 to 2.0); intraoperative blood loss (I2 = 87%, p<0.01; fixed: MD = 51.5, 95% CI 34.1 to 68.8; random: MD = 51.9, 95% CI -89.8 to 193.5); VAS 1 day postoperatively (I2 = 79%, p = 0.03; fixed: MD = -0.8, 95% CI -1.2 to -0.4; random: MD = -0.9, 95% CI -2.0 to 0.15); HHS 3 months postoperatively (I2 = 52%, p = 0.08; fixed: MD = 2.8, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.6; random: MD = 3.0, 95% CI -0.5 to 6.5); HHS 6 months postoperatively (I2 = 0%, p = 0.67; fixed: MD = 0.9, 95% CI -1.1 to 2.9; random: MD = 0.9, 95% CI -1.1 to 2.9); HHS 12 months postoperatively (I2 = 0%, p = 0.79; fixed: MD = 0.7, 95% CI -0.9 to 2.4; random: MD = 0.7, 95% CI -0.9 to 2.4). We compared our findings with 7 related meta-analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the results of our meta-analysis and the review of related meta-analyses, we can conclude that short-term outcomes of THA through DAA were overall better than THA through CAs. THA through DAA had a shorter incision length, a tendency towards a lower pain VAS 1 day postoperatively and better early postoperative functional outcome than THA through CAs. The intraoperative blood loss showed indifferent results. THA through DAA had a longer operation time than THA through CAs.

The Direct Anterior Approach to Primary Total Hip Replacement: Radiological Analysis in Comparison to Other Approaches

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is currently considered the most effective treatment for end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA). The surgery can be performed via a number of different approaches, including direct anterior (DAA; Smith–Petersen; Hueter), anterolateral (ALA; Watson–Jones), direct lateral (LA; Bauer), posterior (PA; Kocher–Langenbeck), and posterolateral (PLA). There is still a dispute over the optimal technique. The aim of this systematic review was to assess how different surgical approaches toward a THA influence the prosthesis elements’ positioning. We conducted a literature search of Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Embase, and The Cochrane Library. We evaluated studies in terms of the first author’s name, country, publication year, type of surgical approach being compared to the direct anterior approach, any significant differences at baseline, sample size, and radiographic analysis. A subanalysis of each approach in comparison to the DAA revealed differences in terms of all analyzed implant positioning radiographic parameters. There is still an insufficient number of randomized controlled studies that include radiological analyses comparing THRs (total hip replacements) performed using DAA with other approaches. Implant placement is a crucial step during a THR and surgeons must be aware that the approach they use might impact their judgment on angles and spaces inside the joint and thus alter the implant positioning.

Comparison of short-term outcomes between direct anterior approach (DAA) and SuperPATH in total hip replacement: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Two minimally invasive approaches showed some advantages in outcomes compared to conventional approaches (CAs)-the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the supercapsular percutaneously assisted approach in THA (SuperPATH). To the best of our knowledge, DAA and SuperPATH have never been compared, neither in clinical studies, nor in a meta-analysis. To conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing short-term outcomes of DAA and SuperPATH in total hip joint arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

A systematic literature search up to May 2020 was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SuperPATH with CAs and DAA with CAs in THA. We measured surgical, functional, and radiological outcomes. A network meta-analysis, using frequentist methods, was performed to assess treatment effects between DAA and SuperPATH. Information was borrowed from the above-mentioned RCTs, using the CA group as a common comparator.

RESULTS

A total of 16 RCTs involving 1392 patients met the inclusion criteria, three trials with a level I evidence, 13 trials with a level II evidence. The overall network meta-analysis showed that SuperPATH reduced operation time (fixed effect model: MD = 12.8, 95% CI 9.9 to 15.7), incision length (fixed effect model: MD = 4.3, 95% CI 4.0 to 4.5; random effect model: MD = 4.3, 95% CI 0.2 to 8.4), intraoperative blood loss (fixed effect model: MD = 58.6, 95% CI 40.4 to 76.8), and early pain intensity (VAS 1 day postoperatively with a fixed effect model: MD = 0.8, 95% CI 0.4 to 1.2). The two approaches did not differ in acetabular cup positioning angles and in functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Our overall findings suggested that the short-term outcomes of THA through SuperPATH were superior to DAA. SuperPATH showed better results in decreasing operation time, incision length, intraoperative blood loss, and early pain intensity. DAA and SuperPATH were equal in functional outcome and acetabular cup positioning.

Minimizing complications in bikini incision direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty: A single surgeon series of 865 cases

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to report all complications during the first consecutive 865 cases of bikini incision direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed by a single surgeon. The secondary aims of the study are to report our clinical outcomes and implant survivorship. We discuss our surgical technique to minimize complication rates during the procedure.

METHODS

We undertook a retrospective analysis of our complications, clinical outcomes and implant survivorship of 865 DAA THA's over a period of 6 years (mean = 3.9yrs from 0.9 to 6.8 years).

RESULTS

The complication rates identified in this study were low. Medium term survival at minimum 2-year survival and revision as the end point, was 99.53% and 99.84% for the stem and acetabular components respectively. Womac score improved from 49 (range 40-58) preoperatively to 3.5(range 0-8.8) and similarly, HHS scores improved from 53(range 40-56) to 92.5(range 63-100) at final follow-up (mean = 3.9 yrs) when compared to preoperative scores.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that bikini incision DAA technique can be safely utilised to perform THA.

Fatty muscle infiltration of the hip lateral rotator muscles following direct anterior minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

There is no consensus as to the best surgical approach to use when doing total hip arthroplasty (THA). There has been renewed interest in recent years in so-called anatomic minimally invasive direct anterior approaches (DAA). However, their reduced impact has not been confirmed with imaging data. This led us to carry out a prospective study to 1) evaluate fatty infiltration (FI) of muscles around the hip joint and 2) analyze how this FI changes over time.

HYPOTHESIS

THA done by the DAA induces FI of the anterolateral muscles around the hip adjacent to the approach.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A continuous case series of THA by DAA using a traction table was done by a single experienced surgeon. MRI images (GE Optima* MR360 1.5T) were taken preoperatively, then at 3 months and 1 year after the THA surgery. Muscle FI was classified as described by Goutallier by an independent radiologist on all the muscles around the hip joint. A Wilcoxon test was used to compare the preoperative MRI data to the data at 3 months and 1 year postoperative.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine MRI examinations were done in 23 patients. Two were not interpretable because the patient moved during the preoperative acquisition. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported. None of the patients had hip pain or limped at 1 year postoperative. The FI was significantly worse from the preoperative MRI to the 3-month postoperative MRI (p=0.02) and 1-year MRI (p=0.0007) in the internal obturator muscle and at 1 year in the piriformis muscle (p=0.04). There was no significant difference for the other muscles. The rectus femoris, superior and inferior gemellus muscles and the quadratus femoris could not be analyzed.

DISCUSSION

Our hypothesis was not confirmed, although we had a paradoxical finding of muscle FI in the posterior lateral rotator muscles not the anterolateral muscles after THA by DAA. These lesions may be secondary to detachment or denervation of these muscles when elevating the femur to prepare the femoral canal or insert the stem.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV; Prospective case series.

Are hip movement precautions effective in preventing prosthesis dislocation post hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To determine if hip movement precautions reduce hip prosthesis dislocation rates post hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach compared to minimal or no movement restrictions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered prospectively. CINAHL, MEDLINE and Embase were searched from inception until September 2020 supplemented by citation tracking. Studies were included if patients had a hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach with comparative data on hip movement precautions or minimal to no movement restrictions. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Downs and Black checklist.

RESULTS

From a yield of 8 studies, meta-analysis of 7 studies and 9599 total hip arthroplasties, there was low quality evidence of no increased risk of dislocation (RR = 0.98, 95%CI 0.58 to 1.67) for patients prescribed minimal or no hip movement restrictions compared with patients prescribed hip movement precautions. There were 121/5440 dislocations (2.2%) in the movement precaution group and 90/4159 dislocations in the minimally restricted group (2.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Dislocation rates after total hip arthroplasty are low irrespective of movement precaution allocation. Resources allocated to implementing hip movement precautions may be better directed towards other clinical areas.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThere was no difference in hip prosthesis dislocation rate between patients who received hip movement precautions compared to patients who received minimal or no restrictions after total hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach.Health professionals involved in prescribing and monitoring adherence to hip movement precautions after total hip arthroplasty may be better allocating their resources to other areas of clinical care.Falls were associated with the greatest number of prosthesis dislocations, accounting for 24% of dislocations; resources may be better allocated towards evidence-based strategies to reduce falls.

Quality of the femoral cement mantle in total hip arthroplasty using the direct anterior hip approach

Background

Limited literature exists concerning the femoral cement mantle quality that can be achieved through an anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty (THA). We radiologically evaluated the quality and thickness of the femoral cement mantle in patients undergoing THA utilizing the direct anterior approach (DAA).

Methods

Immediate postoperative anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of 116 consecutive patients who underwent hybrid or fully cemented THA using the DAA and cemented Quadra-C stem (Medacta, International, SA, Switzerland) were assessed by 2 arthroplasty surgeons blinded to the study. Surgical indications were hip osteoarthritis or subcapital hip fracture. The cement mantle and stem alignment were evaluated using the Barrack classification and Khalily methods, respectively. After calibration of radiographs, the thinnest part of the cement mantle per Gruen zone was recorded. Parameters were compared between obese and nonobese patients.

Results

Agreement between raters was substantial for the cement quality in anteroposterior (k = 0.707, P ≤ .001) and moderate for lateral radiographs (k = 0.574, P ≤ 001). The cement mantle was graded A in 39.25%, B in 53.0%, and C in 7.75% of anteroposterior radiographs and similarly for lateral radiographs (40.1% A, 51.75% B, 9.5% C). 93% of stems had neutral alignment. The mean thinnest cement mantle (P = .237) and incidence of inadequate cement mantle (<2 mm) per zone (P = .431) were comparable between Gruen zones. The cement mantle quality (P = .174) and inadequacy (P > .05) and stem alignment (P = .652) were comparable between obese and nonobese patients.

Conclusions

DAA enables correct implantation and effective cementation of straight femoral stems. A high-quality cement mantle can be achieved using DAA even in obese patients.

The AAHKS Clinical Research Award: No Evidence for Superior Patient-Reported Outcome Scores After Total Hip Arthroplasty With the Direct Anterior Approach at 1.5 Months Postoperatively, and Through a 5-Year Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

The direct anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty (THA) may result in superior early postoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). This study compared PROMs between THA patients treated with the direct anterior or posterolateral approach between 1.5 months and 5 years, using literature-derived patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) and minimal clinically important improvement (MCII) thresholds.

METHODS

A propensity score match of 93 direct anterior patients to 93 posterolateral patients from a multicenter US collaboration (6 centers, 398 patients) was performed. The Harris Hip Score (HHS), the Short-Form 36, and a Numerical Rating Scale for Pain were collected preoperatively, postoperatively (mean days: 47), and at 1, 3, and 5 years. The proportion of patients reaching the HHS PASS, Pain MCII, and Function MCII in the direct anterior and posterolateral groups was compared using binary logistic regressions, controlling for age, gender, body mass index, and Charnley score.

RESULTS

Direct anterior patients were less likely to reach the HHS PASS at the postoperative visit (P = .015; odds ratio = 0.454), but not at later visits (P > .082). Direct anterior patients had no difference from posterolateral patients in their tendency to reach the Pain MCII postoperatively or at 1 year (P > .090). The direct anterior patients were less likely to reach the Function MCII at the postoperative visit (P = .011; odds ratio = 0.422), but not at 1 year (P = .958).

CONCLUSION

No evidence was found of superior early postoperative PROM scores in THA patients treated with the direct anterior approach. No PROM differences were found at or beyond 1 year, indicating that patients reach similar final symptom states, regardless of surgical approach.

Ten-Year Experience With the Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty at a Tertiary Care Center

BACKGROUND

The anterior approach (AA) to total hip arthroplasty (THA) has advantages for patients and healthcare providers. However, some studies have reported high rates of adverse events when introducing AA-THA. This was not consistent with our center's experience, where 4 senior surgeons safely introduced AA-THA into practice. The purpose of this study is to define the adverse event rates associated with the introduction of AA-THA by a group of experienced surgeons at a single tertiary care center and define experiential factors that may modify adverse event rates.

METHODS

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data for an observational cohort of all patients undergoing a THA between 2006 and 2017 was conducted. Four senior surgeons at a single institution operated on 1087 primary elective hips using AA-THA.

RESULTS

Between 2006 and 2016, AA-THA rose from 1.5% to 53.2% of annual THA. Adverse events included intraoperative events, early postoperative periprosthetic fractures, dislocation, implant failure, early infection, and wound complications. We observed an overall 90-day adverse event rate of 6.4% (of 1087 hips). The adverse event rate was 41.6% (of 12 hips) in the first 12 months of the study period and 3.6% (of 166 hips) in the final 12 months of the study period reviewed. Sixty hips (5.5%) required a reoperation with or without revision of components, 1 (8.3%) in the first 12 months of the study period and 1 (0.6%) in the final 12 months of the study period. Infection and wound complications were the most common causes of reoperation at 1.8% for all cases (20 hips). Higher rates of adverse events are associated with early procedures (n ≤ 15) for all surgeons but showed no statistically significant impact on 5-year survival rate.

CONCLUSION

Our experience demonstrates that AA-THA can be introduced into practice with an acceptable adverse event rate when compared with other approaches to THA. As expected the incidence of adverse events is higher in the early part of the learning curve. Surgeon mentoring in the first 20 cases should be considered to minimize risk of adverse events.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III.

Are physical therapy pain levels affected by surgical approach in total hip arthroplasty? A randomized controlled trial

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the difference in pain levels during postoperative physical therapy pathways in patients who underwent a cement less total hip replacement either through a muscle sparing direct anterior approach (DAA), or the classic trans-gluteal lateral approach (LA). One hundred and twelve (112) patients were randomized into two equal groups. Baseline values of myoglobin levels were acquired prior to surgery and repeated at 6 hours postoperatively as a biomarker for muscle damage. Pain levels during the first passive and consecutive 3 active physical therapy sessions were noted using a visual analogue-numeric scale (VAS). Pain levels were also acquired at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year, following a 20-meter (65.6 feet) walking test. Postoperative myoglobin (ng/mL) levels were significantly higher (p< 0.05) in the LA group (335.05±83.54) then the DAA group (237.71±57.54). Pain levels were significantly lower (p<0.001) in the DAA group for both passive (2.5±1.45 vs. 4.28±2.19) and active physical therapy sessions and there was a positive correlation between postoperative myoglobin levels and pain levels until 6 postoperative weeks. There was no significant difference in demographics between the two groups except for gender distribution. The direct anterior approach’s main advantage of being a minimally invasive muscle sparing technique is showing a better rehabilitation experience with lower pain levels during passive and active physical therapy when compared to the classic trans-gluteal lateral approach.

Association Between Surgical Approach and Major Surgical Complications in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty

IMPORTANCE

Controversy exists about the preferred surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether an anterior approach is associated with lower risk of complications than either a lateral or posterior approach.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Population-based retrospective cohort study of all adults in Ontario, Canada, who had undergone primary THA for osteoarthritis between April 1, 2015, and March 31, 2018. All patients were followed up over a 1-year period (study end date, March 31, 2019).

EXPOSURES

Surgical approach (anterior vs lateral/posterior) for THA.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Major surgical complications within 1 year (composite of deep infection requiring surgery, dislocation requiring closed or open reduction, or revision surgery). Outcomes were compared among propensity-score matched groups using Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

Of the 30 098 patients (mean [SD] age, 67 years [10.7 years]; 16 079 women [53.4%]) who underwent THA, 2995 (10%) underwent the anterior approach; 21 248 (70%), the lateral approach; and 5855 (20%) the posterior approach performed at 1 of 73 hospitals by 1 of 298 surgeons. All patients were followed up for 1 year. Compared with those undergoing the lateral or posterior approach, patients undergoing an anterior approach were younger (mean age, 65 vs 67 years; standardized difference, 0.17); had lower rates of morbid obesity (4.8% vs 7.6%; standardized difference, 0.12), diabetes (14.2% vs 19.9%; standardized difference, 0.15), and hypertension (53.4% vs 62.9%; standardized difference, 0.19); and were treated by higher-volume surgeons (median range, 111 procedures; interquartile range, 69-172 vs 77 procedures, interquartile range, 50-119 in the prior year; standardized difference, 0.55). Compared with 2993 propensity-score matched patients undergoing a lateral or posterior approach, the 2993 matched patients undergoing anterior approaches had a significantly greater risk of a major surgical complication (61 patients [2%] vs 29 patients [1%]; absolute risk difference, 1.07%; 95% CI, 0.46%-1.69%; hazard ratio, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.48 to 2.88).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, an anterior surgical approach compared with a posterior or lateral surgical approach was associated with a small but statistically significant increased risk of major surgical complications. The findings may help inform decisions about surgical approach for hip arthroplasty, although further research is needed to understand pain and functional outcomes.

Laser Resonance Frequency Analysis: A Novel Measurement Approach to Evaluate Acetabular Cup Stability During Surgery

Artificial joint acetabular cup stability is essential for successful total hip arthroplasty. However, a quantitative evaluation approach for clinical use is lacking. We developed a resonance frequency analysis (RFA) system involving a laser system that is fully contactless. This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of laser RFA for evaluating acetabular cup stability. First, the finite element method was performed to determine the vibration mode for analysis. Second, the acetabular cup was press-fitted into a reamed polyurethane cavity that replicated the human acetabular roof. The implanted acetabular cup was vibrated with pulse laser irradiation and the induced vibration was detected with a laser Doppler vibrometer. The time domain signal from the vibrometer was analyzed by fast Fourier transform to obtain the vibration frequency spectrum. After laser RFA, the pull-down force of the acetabular cup was measured as conventional implant fixation strength. The frequency of the first highest amplitude between 2 kHz and 6 kHz was considered as the resonance peak frequency, and its relationship with the pull-down force was assessed. The peak frequency could predict the pull-down force (R² = 0.859, p < 0.000). Our findings suggest that laser RFA might be useful to measure acetabular cup stability during surgery.