Measurement of the inflammatory response in the early postoperative period after hip and knee arthroplasty

Interactions and Trends of Interleukins, PAI-1, CRP, and TNF-α in Inflammatory Responses during the Perioperative Period of Joint Arthroplasty: Implications for Pain Management-A Narrative Review

Inflammation during the perioperative period of joint arthroplasty is a critical aspect of patient outcomes, influencing both the pathophysiology of pain and the healing process. This narrative review comprehensively evaluates the roles of specific cytokines and inflammatory biomarkers in this context and their implications for pain management. Inflammatory responses are initiated and propagated by cytokines, which are pivotal in the development of both acute and chronic postoperative pain. Pro-inflammatory cytokines play essential roles in up-regulating the inflammatory response, which, if not adequately controlled, leads to sustained pain and impaired tissue healing. Anti-inflammatory cytokines work to dampen inflammatory responses and promote resolution. Our discussion extends to the genetic and molecular influences on cytokine production, which influence pain perception and recovery rates post-surgery. Furthermore, the role of PAI-1 in modulating inflammation through its impact on the fibrinolytic system highlights its potential as a therapeutic target. The perioperative modulation of these cytokines through various analgesic and anesthetic techniques, including the fascia iliac compartment block, demonstrates a significant reduction in pain and inflammatory markers, thus underscoring the importance of targeted therapeutic strategies. Our analysis suggests that a nuanced understanding of the interplay between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is required. Future research should focus on individualized pain management strategies.

Myocardial Injury after Non-Cardiac Surgery in Patients Who Underwent Open Repair for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) has been known to be associated with mortality in various surgical patients; however, its prognostic role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) open repair remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the role of MINS as a predictor of mortality in patients who underwent AAA open repair.

METHODS

This retrospective study investigated 352 patients who underwent open repair for non-ruptured AAA. The predictors of 30-day and 1-year mortalities were investigated using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

MINS was diagnosed in 41% of the patients after AAA open repair in this study. MINS was an independent risk factor of 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 10.440, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.278-85.274, p = 0.029) and 1-year mortality (OR: 5.189, 95% CI: 1.357-19.844, p = 0.016). Kaplan-Meier survival curves demonstrated significantly lower overall survival rates in patients with MINS compared to those without MINS (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that MINS is a common complication after AAA open repair and is an independent risk factor of 30-day and 1-year mortalities. Patients with MINS have lower overall survival rates than those without MINS.

Indicators and medical tests to identify lower limb swelling causes after total knee arthroplasty: a Delphi study with multidisciplinary experts

BACKGROUND

Lower limb swelling after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) hinders surgical effectiveness. The poor results of studies on swelling interventions are due to the lack of a classification of swelling causes through appropriate medical tests. A gold standard is missing. This study aimed to clarify the causes of TKA postoperative swelling and how to identify them through indicators and medical tests by consulting a wide range of experts from multiple disciplines.

METHOD

The Delphi method was used. A first draft of the index was prepared based on a systematic search of the literature. A total of 11 experts from several disciplines were invited to evaluate the rationality of the indicators and suggest modifications. After two rounds of consultation, the experts reached a consensus, and the consultation was stopped.

RESULTS

The response rate of the 11 experts was 100%, and the authoritative Cr was 0.896. Kendall's W values for opinion coordination of the two rounds of consultation were 0.262 and 0.226, respectively (P < 0.001). Among the final indicators, there were 4 primary indicators for swelling cause classification (inflammatory response, poor venous return, joint hematoma, muscle damage, and healing), 19 secondary and 19 tertiary indicators.

CONCLUSION

The indications obtained by systematic literature review and multidisciplinary expert consultation are reliable and scientific. Multiple causes of lower extremity swelling after TKA were identified. Blood test indicators can reflect an inflammatory response, suggest poor venous return, and reflect muscle damage and healing progress. Ultrasound scans are needed to identify underlying thrombotic or valvular problems, joint hematomas, and muscle damage. These tests help clinicians and researchers determine the cause of swelling after TKA and take appropriate management.

C-reactive protein during the first 6 postoperative days after total hip arthroplasty cannot predict early periprosthetic infection

INTRODUCTION

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains a serious complication in orthopaedic surgery. C-reactive protein (CRP) is widely used as a marker to screen for inflammatory complications. The early postoperative course is well known, but knowledge about the predictive value of CRP in the first 6 postoperative days for detecting an acute postoperative PJI is lacking.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the inpatient course of CRP of all primary THA and THA with acute PJI within 28 days in our hospital from 2013 to 2021. A receiver-operating curve (ROC) analysis was performed and the best CRP threshold for detecting an acute PJI based on Youden's-index was calculated and an area-under-the curve (AUC) analysis of the threshold was performed.

RESULTS

33 of 7042 patients included had an acute PJI within 28 days. Patients with acute PJI were older, had a higher BMI and longer operation time and suffered more often from diabetes mellitus. A preoperatively elevated CRP was a risk factor for PJI. CRP was significantly higher in the PJI group on postoperative days 3 and 5. Threshold values were calculated to be 152 mg/l on day 3 and 73 mg/l on day 5. However, these values had a low sensitivity (75%, 76%) and specificity (67%, 61%).

CONCLUSION

Especially considering the decreasing length of stay after THA, the question of the usefulness of regular inpatient CRP checks arises. AUC analysis of the ROC showed a poor diagnostic accuracy in almost all cases. Only the dynamic analysis of the maximum CRP value to the lowest CRP value with a decrease of 102.7 mg/l showed a fair accuracy. This calls into question the clinical relevance of CRP in the first postoperative week for detection of acute postoperative PJI.

Early Postoperative Pain Control and Inflammation for Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Comparison of Continuous Adductor Canal Block versus Single-Shot Adductor Canal Block Combined with Patient-Controlled Intravenous Analgesia

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare pain control and inflammation among patients who received a continuous adductor canal block (CACB) versus single-shot adductor canal block (SACB) combined with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) analgesia in the first two days after surgery.

Design

Matched cohort retrospective study. Setting. University hospital. Patients. One hundred fifty-six patient charts were included in this study: 78 patients with CACB in Group A and 78 patients with SACB combined with PCIA in Group B. Patients were matched according to age, body mass index, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class. Measurements. The primary outcome of the study was Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores before operation (Pre) and at postoperative 6 (POH6), 12 (POH12), 24 (POH24), 30 (POH30), 36 (POH36), and 48 hours (POH48). Secondary outcomes included patient-controlled bolus, time of first postoperative ambulation, range of knee flexion and extension, inflammation cytokines on Pre and POH48, percentage of remedial analgesics treatment, incidence of adverse events and complications, hospital stay and cost, and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) satisfaction scores at discharge. Main Results. Mean VAS scores at rest and with motion were lower in Group B than in Group A on all postoperative hours. At POH30, compared with Group A (1.1 ± 0.6), mean VAS scores at rest in Group B (0.9 ± 0.4) were lower (P=0.048), and compared with Group A (2.6 ± 0.7), mean VAS scores with motion in Group B (2.2 ± 0.8) were lower (P=0.001). The number of patient-controlled bolus was 4.3 ± 1.6 (95% CI 3.9-4.6) in Group A and 3.1 ± 1.3 (95% CI 2.8-3.4) in Group B, respectively (P < 0.001). Patients in Group B displayed better functional recovery and inflammation results at POH48 than Group A with respect to range of knee flexion and extension (117.8 ± 10.9° vs. 125.2 ± 9.4°, P < 0.001) and inflammation cytokines, including erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) ((43.8 ± 16.1) vs. (36.8 ± 13.2), P=0.003; (34.9 ± 9.4 mg/L) vs. (29.6 ± 10.6 mg/L), P=0.001; (21.3 ± 8.7 pg/ml) vs. (14.0 ± 7.0 pg/ml), P < 0.001)).

Conclusion

SACB combined with PCIA in the first two days of patients undergoing TKA has better analgesic and beneficial effects on functional recovery and inflammation.

Dexamethasone Attenuates the Perioperative Acute Phase Response for Simultaneous Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of perioperative dexamethasone on acute phase response (APR) after simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (SimBTHA).

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was performed on 177 SimBTHA procedures. The patients were divided into 2 cohorts: patients receiving perioperative dexamethasone and patients in whom no dexamethasone was administered. We observed the effects of perioperative dexamethasone on the APR following SimBTHA by trending C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. Besides, the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score, use of antiemetic and analgesic rescue, and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

Compared to the no dexamethasone group, patients receiving dexamethasone yielded a significantly decreased C-reactive protein on postoperative days 1, 2 and 3. Such differences of interleukin-6 were also detected. In addition, the incidence of PONV, postoperative VAS score, and use of antiemetic and analgesic rescue were significantly decreased without increasing the risk of early surgical wound infection and gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients receiving dexamethasone.

CONCLUSION

The anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone can attenuate the APR after SimBTHA as well as decrease the PONV, postoperative VAS score, and use of antiemetic and analgesic rescue.

Dose optimization of intravenous dexamethasone for total knee arthroplasty: when two is not better than one

BACKGROUND

The optimal dose regimen of dexamethasone in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has not been determined. This study was performed to evaluate the impact of a single preoperative high-dose dexamethasone compared with two perioperative low-dose dexamethasone in TKA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively studied three regimens on dexamethasone: no dexamethasone (A), a single preoperative dose of 20-mg dexamethasone (B), and two perioperative doses of 10-mg dexamethasone (C). The primary outcome was postoperative pain level. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, range of motion (ROM), and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The dynamic pain scores and CRP and IL-6 levels were significantly lower for Group B compared to Groups A and C on postoperative days 1 and 2 (POD 1 and 2). Such differences were also detected between Groups C and A. Besides, the pain scores at rest were significantly lower in Groups B and C than in Group A on POD 1 and 2. Patients in Groups B and C had a lower incidence of PONV, reduced use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue, and improved ROM than in Group A. No complications occurred in any group.

CONCLUSION

Dexamethasone in TKA provides short-term advantages in analgesic, antiemetic and anti-inflammatory effects. Besides, regarding the effects of pain and inflammatory control on POD 1 and 2, a single preoperative high dose of 20-mg dexamethasone was more effective than two perioperative low doses of 10-mg dexamethasone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

N-Terminal Pro-C-Type Natriuretic Peptide: The Novel Marker in Selected Disease Units

BACKGROUND

Amino-terminal pro C type natriuretic peptide (NT proCNP) is the N terminal fragment of the CNP precursor. NT proCNP occurs in an equimolar concentration with CNP in human plasma and is considered to be a marker of the extent of CNP biosynthesis. A recent study has shown associations between plasma NT proCNP and blood pressure; it is also an independent predictor of death and cardiac readmission in people with unstable angina. Beyond that, recent studies have focused on the applicability of assessing NT proCNP peptide levels in the diagnosis of diseases with different etiologies but the same denominator, i.e., inflammation.

METHODS

This study reviewed recent results on the usability of NT proCNP peptide levels in the diagnosis of diseases accompanied by statistical analysis of previously reported results.

RESULTS

The data obtained confirmed the applicability of the assessment of NT proCNP levels in biological fluids in diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, sepsis, meningitis, and asthenozoospermia.

CONCLUSION

The reported results demonstrated that NT-proCNP is helpful in a variety of diseases. Furthermore, changes in serum or CSF levels of NT-proCNP reflect only inflammatory states related to general inflammation. Local inflammation does not trigger an increase in NT proCNP level.

Effect of Multiple Doses of Intravenous Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Study

Objective

To identify the efficacy and safety of multiple doses of intravenous tranexamic acid (IV‐TXA) following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a tourniquet.

Methods

This is a single‐blind randomized controlled study that recruited osteoarthritis patients who had undergone primary unilateral TKA from May 2019 to May 2020 at our medical center. A total of 300 patients were randomly divided into three groups to receive: one dose (1 g) of IV‐TXA before skin incision combined with one dose (1.5 g) of intra‐articular tranexamic acid（IA‐TXA) followed by a single dose of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3 h (group A); two doses of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3 and 6 h (group B); or three doses of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3, 6, and 12 h (group C) postoperatively. TKA with a tourniquet was performed by the same surgical team. The primary outcomes were total blood cell loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), maximum hemoglobin (Hb) drop, and transfusion rate. Secondary outcomes were levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and D‐dimer, and the incidence of postoperative complications. One‐way analysis of variance, subgroup analysis, and multivariate correlation analysis were used to calculate the differences among the three groups.

Results

The study included 56 male and 244 female patients aged 60–80 years. The mean TBL, the mean HBL, and the maximum Hb drop in group C (471.2 ± 190.6 mL, 428.4 ± 190.3 mL, and 21.2 ± 3.8 g/L, respectively) were significantly lower than those in groups B (563.4 ± 224.6 mL, P = 0.030; 519.9 ± 226.4 mL, P = 0.033; and 23.2 ± 4.1 g/L, P = 0.001, respectively), and A (651.6 ± 254.1 mL, P < 0.001; 607.1 ± 254.3 mL, P < 0.001; and 25.1 ± 4.3 g/L, P < 0.001, respectively). No transfusions were required. The postoperative acute inflammatory reaction was less problematic for patients in Group C, and the incidence of thromboembolic events was similar among the groups (P > 0.05). In addition, there were positive correlations between the HBL and the tourniquet inflation time (r = 0.844, P < 0.001). Similarly, the level of CRP on POD1 (r = 0.393, P < 0.001) and POD3 (r = 0.149, P = 0.010), and the level of D‐dimer on POD1 (r = 0.382, P < 0.001) were positively correlated with the HBL.

Conclusion

Three doses of postoperative IV‐TXA decreased blood loss and diminished the postoperative inflammatory and fibrinolytic response more than a single dose or two doses in elderly patients following TKA without increasing the incidence of adverse events.

Repeat Doses of Dexamethasone up to 48 Hours Further Reduce Pain and Inflammation After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The optimal dose regimen of dexamethasone in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is unclear. This study was conducted to compare the effects among 1-dose, 2-dose, and 3-dose dexamethasone in THA.

METHODS

One hundred fifty patients were randomized to receive a single preoperative dose of 10-mg dexamethasone (group A, 50 patients), or another dose of 10-mg dexamethasone 24 hours later (group B, 50 patients), or another 2 doses of 10-mg dexamethasone 24 and 48 hours later (group C, 50 patients). The primary outcome was postoperative pain level. The use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue; incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting; C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels; range of motion; and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The dynamic pain scores were lower for groups B and C compared to group A on postoperative days 2 and 3. Such difference was also detected between groups B and C on postoperative day 3. C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels were lower in groups B and C than in group A at 48 and 72 hours postoperatively. Such difference was also observed between groups B and C at 72 hours postoperatively. Patients in groups B and C had reduced rescue analgesic use, and improved range of motion compared to patients in group A. There were no differences among 3 groups regarding the rescue antiemetic use, postoperative nausea and vomiting occurrence, and complications.

CONCLUSION

Additional administrations of dexamethasone after THA could provide sustained pain relief and inflammatory control. Besides, the 3-dose regimen was more effective than the 2-dose regimen in terms of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Is a split-dose intravenous dexamethasone regimen superior to a single high dose in reducing pain and improving function after total hip arthroplasty? A randomized blinded placebo-controlled trial

Aims

Intravenous dexamethasone has been shown to reduce immediate postoperative pain after total hip arthroplasty (THA), though the effects are short-lived. We aimed to assess whether two equivalent perioperative split doses were more effective than a single preoperative dose.

Methods

A total of 165 patients were randomly assigned into three groups: two perioperative saline injections (Group A, placebo), a single preoperative dose of 20 mg dexamethasone and a postoperative saline injection (Group B), and two perioperative doses of 10 mg dexamethasone (Group C). Patients, surgeons, and staff collecting outcome data were blinded to allocation. The primary outcome was postoperative pain level reported on a ten-point Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) at rest and during activity. The use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), CRP and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, range of motion (ROM), length of stay (LOS), patient satisfaction, and the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) and gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in the three months postoperatively, were also compared.

Results

The pain scores at rest were significantly lower in Groups B and C than in Group A on postoperative days 1 and 2. The dynamic pain scores and CRP and IL-6 levels were significantly lower for Groups B and C compared to Group A on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3. Patients in Groups B and C had a lower incidence of PONV, reduced use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue, improved ROM, shorter LOS, and reported higher satisfaction than in Group A. Patients in Group C had significantly lower dynamic pain scores and IL-6 and CRP levels on postoperative days 2 and 3, and higher ROM and satisfaction on postoperative day 3 than in Group B. No SSI or GIB occurred in any group.

Conclusion

Perioperative dexamethasone provides short-term advantages in reducing pain, PONV, and inflammation, and increasing range of motion in the early postoperative period after THA. A split-dose regimen was superior to a single high dose in reducing pain and inflammation, and increasing ROM, with better patient satisfaction. Level of evidence: I Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1497–1504.

The optimal dosage, route and timing of glucocorticoids administration for improving knee function, pain and inflammation in primary total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 34 randomized trials

PURPOSE

Glucocorticoids are a mainstay to control postoperative pain, inflammation, nausea and vomiting (PONV) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Understanding the optimal dose and route of glucocorticoids administration in TKA is of great significance in speedy functional recovery. We aimed to summarize, evaluate and rank order the efficacy of glucocorticoids regimens in TKA.

METHODS

Electronic databases (PubMed et al.) were systematically searched from inception up to April 30, 2020. The primary outcomes were visual analogue scale (VAS), range of motion (ROM) and knee society score (KSS). C-reactive Protein (CRP) and PONV were also evaluated. Multivariable Bayesian random effects models were used to synthesize and rank the comparative efficacy of glucocorticoids regimens.

RESULTS

A total of 34 eligible randomized controlled trials with 11 different glucocorticoids regimens were assessed. Overall inconsistency and heterogeneity were acceptable. Multiple medium dose perioperative intravenous injection (IV) ranked first in the analgesia network and a single high doses of preoperative IV ranked first in the inflammation and PONV network. There was no statistically significant increase in ROM or KSS in all the glucocorticoid formulations and doses compared with controls on postoperative day 30.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucocorticoid multiple intravenous injection was preferable to a single intravenous injection (preoperative and postoperative), periarticular injection and intra-articular injection in analgesia. Based on the available evidence, a medium dose of hydrocortisone of 2-4 mg/kg is optimal.

Is there a maximal effect of tranexamic acid in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty? A randomized controlled trial

The optimal dosing regimen of tranexamic acid (TXA) has not been determined in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In this study, patients were randomized to receive a high initial‐dose (60 mg/kg) TXA before incision, followed by five doses 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours later (A), or three doses 3, 12, and 24 hours later (B), or a single dose 3 hours later (C). The primary outcome was perioperative blood loss. Other outcomes such as, hemoglobin level, transfusion, the levels of fibrin (ogen) degradation products (FDP), D‐dimer, C‐reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), coagulation parameters, and adverse events were also compared. The results showed that individuals in Groups A and B had reduced total and hidden blood loss (HBL), lower FDP, D‐dimer, CRP, and IL‐6 levels than in Group C. Such differences were also detected in HBL between Groups A and B. No differences were observed in other outcomes between Groups A and B. No differences were observed in coagulation parameters and adverse events among the three groups. In conclusion, a high initial‐dose (60 mg/kg) TXA before TKA followed by three doses can be sufficient to achieve maximal effects on total blood loss, fibrinolysis, and inflammation.

Additional benefits of multiple-dose tranexamic acid to anti-fibrinolysis and anti-inflammation in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Consensus is lacking regarding the dose and timing of tranexamic acid (TXA). The aim of this study was to determine whether multiple-dose intravenous TXA further reduced blood loss and attenuated inflammation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively studied four regimens on TXA: no TXA (A), before incision, 3, 6, and 12 h later (B), before incision, 3, 6, 12, and 18 h later (C) and before incision, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h later (D). The primary outcome was hidden blood loss (HBL). Other outcome measurements such as total blood loss (TBL), intraoperative blood loss (IBL), fibrinolysis parameters [fibrin(-ogen) degradation products, D-dimer], inflammatory factors (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6), visual analog scale (VAS) score, transfusion rate, length of stay (LOS) and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The mean HBL and TBL were significantly lower in Group D than in Groups C, B and A. The level of inflammatory factors and fibrinolysis parameters were significantly lower in Group D than in Groups C, B and A at 24 and 72 h postoperatively. The VAS score on postoperative days 1 and 3 (POD1 and POD3) was significantly lower in Group D than in Groups C, B and A. There was no significant difference in LOS among groups. No patient underwent blood transfusion. No episodes of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism occurred in all the groups.

CONCLUSION

The repeated doses of TXA up to 24 h can further diminish HBL, provide additional fibrinolysis and inflammation control and ameliorate postoperative pain following TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

The antifibrinolytic and anti-inflammatory effects of a high initial-dose tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a high initial-dose (60 mg/kg) intravenous tranexamic acid (IV-TXA) on fibrinolysis and inflammation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

A total of 132 patients were categorized into two groups based on different TXA regimens: 20 mg/kg before incision (A) or 60 mg/kg before incision (B). All patients received five doses of 1 g TXA at three, six, 12, 18, and 24 hours after the first dose. The primary outcomes were peri-operative blood loss and transfusion rate. Other outcome measurements such as, haemoglobin level, fibrinolysis parameters [fibrin(-ogen) degradation products (FDP), D-dimer], inflammatory factors [C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6)], visual analog scale (VAS) score, consumption of analgesic rescue, coagulation parameters [activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), platelet count, thrombelastography (TEG), and anti-factor Xa activity (AFXa)] and complications, were also compared.

RESULTS

There was a favourable effect in reducing peri-operative blood loss and transfusion rate for patients in Group B, compared with patients in Group A. In addition, the levels of FDP, D-dimer, CRP, IL-6, and dynamic pain in Group B were significantly lower than those in Group A on post-operative days one, two and three. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative coagulation parameters and complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A high initial-dose (60 mg/kg) IV-TXA before surgery followed by five doses can further reduce blood loss, provide additional fibrinolysis and inflammation control, and ameliorate post-operative pain following TKA, without increasing the risk of treatment-related complications.

Multiple Doses of Perioperative Dexamethasone Further Improve Clinical Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of multiple doses of preoperative dexamethasone on pain and recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Altogether, 182 patients undergoing TKA received 3 intravenous injections of normal saline (group A), 1 injection of high-dose dexamethasone (20 mg) and 2 injections of normal saline (group B), or 1 injection of high-dose dexamethasone and 2 injections of low-dose (10 mg) dexamethasone (group C).

RESULTS

Visual analog scale was lower in group C than in group A or B and was different between groups A and B on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 (all P < .05). Fewer group C patients required analgesic rescue and had lower total analgesic than those in group A or B, with the same difference between groups A and B (all P < .05). C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels were lower in groups B and C than in group A at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. C-reactive protein at 72 hours and interleukin-6 at 48 and 72 hours were lower in group C than in group B (all P < .05). Incidences of postoperative nausea and vomiting, number of patients requiring antiemetic rescue, and overall consumption of metoclopramide were lower in groups B and C than in group A (all P < .05). No surgical-site infections or gastrointestinal hemorrhages were detected in any group.

CONCLUSION

Multiple dexamethasone doses further reduced postoperative pain, decreased consumption of analgesic drugs, and provided more powered inflammation control. These findings call for further studies to further evaluate its safety.

Multiple-Dose Intravenous Tranexamic Acid Further Reduces Hidden Blood Loss After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The most appropriate dose of tranexamic acid in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has not been decided. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical effects of multiple-dose intravenous tranexamic acid (IV-TXA) in THA.

METHODS

One hundred fifty patients were randomized to receive one dose of IV-TXA before incision, followed by 2 doses of IV-TXA (group A), or 3 doses of IV-TXA (group B), or 4 doses of IV-TXA (group C) at 3-hour intervals. The primary outcome was hidden blood loss (HBL). Other outcome measurements such as total blood loss, maximum hemoglobin (Hb) drop, postoperative lowest Hb level, fibrinolysis parameter (D-dimer), inflammatory factor (interleukin-6), transfusion rate, length of stay, and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The mean HBL, total blood loss, and maximum Hb drop were significantly lower in group C than in groups B and A. Such differences were also detected between groups B and A. The postoperative lowest Hb level was significantly higher in group C. D-dimer and interleukin-6 in group C were significantly lower than in groups B and A at 24 and 48 hours postoperatively. Such differences were also significant between groups B and A. There was no significant difference in length of stay among groups. No patient underwent blood transfusion during hospitalization. No episodes of deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism occurred in all cases.

CONCLUSION

The 5-dose IV-TXA regimen can further diminish HBL, decrease maximum Hb drop, provide additional fibrinolysis control, and ameliorate postoperative inflammatory response following THA.

Multiple Low-Dose Dexamethasone Further Improves Clinical Outcomes Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The recommended dose regimen of dexamethasone in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has not been determined. This study was performed to assess the effects of multiple low-dose dexamethasone on clinical outcomes after THA.

METHODS

Two hundred ten patients undergoing THA received 3 doses of normal saline (Group A), 2 doses of intravenous dexamethasone and 1 dose of normal saline (Group B), or 3 doses of intravenous dexamethasone (Group C). The primary outcome was the visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain and nausea. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, range of motion, length of stay (LOS), and complications were also compared.

RESULTS

The VAS score (dynamic pain and nausea) on postoperative day 1 was significantly lower in Groups C and B than Group A. On postoperative day 2, the VAS score (dynamic pain and nausea) was lower in Group C than Groups A and B. In Group C, patients had a lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and reduced use of analgesic and antiemetic rescue. The CRP level was lower in Group B than Group A. Group C had the lowest CRP level among all 3 groups. LOS was shorter in Group B than Group A, while Group C had an even shorter LOS than Group B. Range of motion was greater in Group C. No complications occurred in any group.

CONCLUSION

The 3-dose dexamethasone regimen can further relieve postoperative pain, ameliorate postoperative nausea, provide additional inflammatory control, enhance mobility, and shorten LOS following THA.

Multiple boluses of intravenous tranexamic acid to reduce hidden blood loss and the inflammatory response following enhanced-recovery primary total hip arthroplasty: a randomised clinical trial

AIMS

The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of multiple boluses of intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TXA) on the hidden blood loss (HBL) and inflammatory response following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 150 patients were allocated randomly to receive a single bolus of 20 mg/kg IV TXA before the incision (group A), a single bolus followed by a second bolus of 1 g IV-TXA three hours later (group B) or a single bolus followed by two boluses of 1 g IV-TXA three and six hours later (group C). All patients were treated using a standard peri-operative enhanced recovery protocol. Primary outcomes were HBL and the level of haemoglobin (Hb) as well as the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) as markers of inflammation. Secondary outcomes included the length of stay in hospital and the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

RESULTS

The mean HBL was significantly lower in group C (402.13 ml standard deviation (sd) 225.97) than group A (679.28 ml sd 277.16, p < 0.001) or B (560.62 ml sd 295.22, p = 0.010). The decrease in the level of Hb between the pre-operative baseline and the level on the third post-operative day was 30.82 g/L (sd 6.31 g/L) in group A, 27.16 g/L (sd 6.83) in group B and 21.98 g/L (sd 3.72) in group C. This decrease differed significantly among the three groups (p < 0.01). The mean level of CRP was significantly lower in group C than in the other two groups on the second (p ≤ 0.034) and third post-operative days (p ≤ 0.014). The levels of IL-6 were significantly lower in group C than group A on the first three post-operative days (p = 0.023). The mean length of stay was significantly lower in group C than group A (p = 0.023). No VTE or other adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

Multiple boluses of IV-TXA can effectively reduce HBL following primary THA. A regime of three boluses leads to a smaller decrease in the level of Hb, less post-operative inflammation and a shorter length of stay in hospital than a single bolus. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1442-9.

Use of Common Inflammatory Markers in the Long-Term Screening of Total Hip Arthroprosthesis Infections: Our Experience

Orthopedic implants have become essential components of modern medicine. The risk of infection of total hip arthroplasty (THA) is 1.5%-2%. Are the C-reactive protein (CRP), the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and procalcitonin (PCT) good markers for THA infection screenings? From February 2009 to December 2012 at our Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, 1248 patients were treated with THA. No prosthesis was cemented. All patients received antibiotic prophylaxis. All patients were discharged approximately 7.4 days after surgery with this clinical and radiographic follow-up program at 15 days and 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after surgery. Blood samples to determine ESR, CRP, and PCT values were taken at 1 hour before surgery and 15 days and 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after surgery. During follow-ups there were 22 cases of THA infections; according the Widmer classification, infections are hematogenous ones in 16 cases, late chronic ones in 5 cases, and early postoperative ones in 1 case. In all cases the three markers were considered positive; in 6 cases there were no radiological signs of septic loosening. ESR, CRP, and PCT proved to have a greater diagnostic accuracy than X-rays in predicting late chronic and early postoperative infections. These markers are valuable support for the surgeon in monitoring the prosthetic implant lifespan.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio shows faster changing kinetics than C-reactive protein after total hip and knee arthroplasty

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) induce inflammatory reactions, which can be described by changes in the neuroendocrine, cellular, protein, and cytokine systems. The aim of this study was to document the normal distribution pattern of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) after THA and TKA and to compare it with postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) patterns.

Methods

Changes in serum CRP levels, neutrophil count, and lymphocyte count were measured before and during the first 5 postoperative days in a prospective study performed on 387 patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty.

Results

Mean CRP levels in patients undergoing THA were 7.7 mg/L, 184.8 mg/L, and 115.9 mg/L, respectively, at Days 0, 3 and 5. The mean NLR of patients undergoing THA was 2.9, 3.6, and 2.7, respectively, at Days 0, 3, and 5. Mean CRP levels in patients undergoing TKA were 7.8 mg/L, 192.6 mg/L, and 108.6 mg/L, respectively, at Days 0, 3 and 5. The mean NLR of patients undergoing TKA was 2.8, 3.4, and 2.6, respectively, at Days 0, 3, and 5. When comparing the preoperative value and the Day 3 value, CRP levels increased more than the NLR (almost a 24-fold increase in mean CRP values vs. a 1.2-fold increase in mean NLR values). In both groups, the NLR returned to preoperative values by the 5th postoperative day.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated a significant elevation in CRP levels and the NLR following THA and TKA. In both groups, the NLR showed a faster kinetics pattern than CRP levels in response to surgical trauma.The translational potential of this article: We describe results of the use of the NLR, as compared to a routinely used marker, CRP, as advantageous in clinical setting due to faster dynamics of change. Integrating the NLR in clinical practice seems easy and without extra cost.

The efficacy and safety of multiple-dose intravenous tranexamic acid on blood loss following total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of multiple-dose intravenous tranexamic acid (IV-TXA) on blood loss following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

One hundred fifty nine patients received one bolus of IV-TXA before skin incision and two boluses three and six hours later (group A), or another bolus nine hours later (group B), or another two boluses nine and 12 hours later (group C). The primary outcomes were total blood loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), and maximum haemoglobin (Hb) drop. Other outcome measurements such as fibrinolysis parameters [fibrin(-ogen) degradation products (FDP), D-dimer], inflammatory factors [interleukin-6 (IL-6)], transfusion rate, range of motion (ROM), length of hospital stay (LOH), and complications were also recorded and compared.

RESULTS

The mean TBL, HBL and maximum Hb drop in group C (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.025) and group B (p = 0.025, p = 0.025, p = 0.044) were lower than those in group A. FDP and D-Dimer in group C was lower than in group A and B on post-operative day one. IL-6 in group A, B and C showed a downward tendency on post-operative days one and three (POD1 and POD3). Moreover, the ROM and LOH were better in group C. No episodes of transfusion or deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were detected in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The 5-dose TXA regimen can further reduce the blood loss, diminish the maximum Hb drop, minimize inflammation, enhance mobility, and shorten LOS following TKA, without increasing the risk of complications. An additional dose could be requisite when fibrinolysis maintains after 5-dose regimen has already been performed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.