Free vascularized fibular grafting for the treatment of postcollapse osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Upper Extremity Diaphyseal Osseous Gap Reconstruction with Free Vascularized Bone Flaps: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

 Reconstruction of upper extremity osseous diaphyseal defects often requires complex reconstructions. In this study, we characterized and summarized the available literature on free vascularized bone flap (VBF) reconstruction for upper extremity diaphyseal defects.

METHODS

 A scoping review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews was conducted. A literature search of major electronic databases was conducted to identify journal articles relating to the management of VBF reconstruction of upper limb long bone defects. Articles with patient-level data were included. Descriptive statistics were performed using Python.

RESULTS

 Overall, 364 patients were included in this study. The most common indications for VBFs included atrophic nonunion (125, 34.3%), postoncologic resection (125, 34.3%), septic nonunion (56, 15.4%), and trauma (36, 9.9%). Mean defect size was 8.53 ± 5.14 cm. A total of 67 (18.4%) cases had defects < 6 cm, and 166 cases (45.6%) had defects > 6 cm. The fibula was the most utilized VBF (272, 74.73%), followed by the medial femoral condyle flap (69, 18.96%). Overall, primary union rate was 87.1%. Subsequent flap fracture rate was 3.3%. There were only two (0.6%) VBF losses reported in the included cases, and donor-site complications were similarly rare (17, 4.7%).

CONCLUSION

 VBF reconstruction is often utilized for postoncologic defects and recalcitrant nonunions. The fibula is the most utilized VBF, but the medial femoral condyle flap is used frequently for smaller defects. VBF reconstruction demonstrates high union rates and low flap fracture rate across indications.

Development of a risk-predicting score for hip preservation with bone grafting therapy for osteonecrosis

Identification and differentiation of appropriate indications on hip preserving with bone grafting therapy remains a crucial challenge in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). A prospective cohort study on bone grafting therapy for ONFH aimed to evaluate hip survival rates, and to establish a risk scoring derived from potential risk factors (multivariable model) for hip preservation. Eight variables were identified to be strongly correlated with a decreased rate of hip survival post-therapy, and a comprehensive risk scoring was developed for predicting hip-preservation outcomes. The C-index stood at 0.72, and the areas under the receiver operating characteristics for the risk score's 5- and 10-year hip failure event predictions were 0.74 and 0.72, respectively. This risk score outperforms conventional methods in forecasting hip preservation. Bone grafting shows sustained benefits in treating ONFH when applied under the right indications. Furthermore, the risk scoring proves valuable as a decision-making tool, facilitating risk stratification for ONFH treatments in future.

Preclinical models for studying corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a refractory condition that commonly results in femoral head collapse and degenerative arthritis of the hip. In the early stages, surgical procedures for hip preservation, including core decompression (CD), have been developed to prevent progressive collapse of the femoral head. Optimization of bone regeneration and biological augmentation may further enhance the therapeutic efficacy of CD for ONFH. Thus, combining CD with cell-based therapy has recently been proposed. In fact, patients treated with cell-based therapy using autologous bone marrow concentrate demonstrate improved survivorship of the femoral head, compared with conventional CD alone. Preclinical research studies to investigate adjunctive therapies for CD often utilize the rabbit model of corticosteroid-induced ONFH. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to promote osteogenesis and angiogenesis, and decrease inflammation in bone. Local drug delivery systems have the potential to achieve targeted therapeutic effects by precisely controlling the drug release rate. Scaffolds can provide an osteoconductive structural framework to facilitate the repair of osteonecrotic bone tissue. We focused on the combination of both cell-based and scaffold-based therapies for bone tissue regeneration in ONFH. We hypothesized that combining CD and osteoconductive scaffolds would provide mechanical strength and structural cell guidance; and that combining CD and genetically modified (GM) MSCs to express relevant cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors would promote bone tissue repair. We developed GM MSCs that overexpress the anti-inflammatory, pro-reconstructive cytokines platelet-derived growth factor-BB to provide MSCs with additional benefits and investigated the efficacy of combinations of these GM MSCs and scaffolds for treatment of ONFH in skeletally mature male New Zealand white rabbits. In the future, the long-term safety, efficacy, durability, and cost-effectiveness of these and other biological and mechanical treatments must be demonstrated for the patients affected by ONFH.

Comparison of retrograde anatomy iliac bone flap grafting versus anterograde anatomy iliac bone flap grafting for treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head

BACKGROUND

Iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery is a common option in the treatment of Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), and dissection of iliac bone flap is the key step for successful operation. This paper aims to introduce a new operative technique for dissecting iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery based on analysis of its advantages.

METHODS

A total of 49 patients treated by retrograde anatomy and 52 patients treated by anterograde anatomy from January 2010 to December 2020 were recruited. The two groups were then compared in terms of the preoperative baseline conditions, intraoperative data, and postoperative Harris hip score (HHS).

RESULTS

Compared with the retrograde anatomy group, the anterograde anatomy group had a significantly longer operating time, a significantly heavier intraoperative blood loss, a significantly higher rate of donor complication morbidity, a significantly higher rate of donor-recipient delayed healing, a significantly higher failure rate of iliac bone flap resection, a significantly higher rate of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury, and a significantly higher rate of ectopic ossification. No difference was found in postoperative HHS score between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

As a new operative technique that can accurately locate the nutrient vessels of the iliac bone flap and quickly dissect the iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery while maintaining a comparable clinical effect, retrograde anatomy exhibited distinct advantages over anterograde anatomy in terms of simpler intraoperative operation, safer dissection, shorter operation time, lower blood loss, and fewer donor complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Retrospective.

Osseoscopy-Assisted Femoral Head Restoration and Vascularized Graft for Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A Case Report

CASE

A 13-year-old obese adolescent boy with hypothyroidism developed left femoral head avascular necrosis with collapse after slipped capital femoral epiphysis. We restored the femoral head congruity with the aid of osseoscopy and vascularized free fibular graft (VFFG). Four years after surgery, the patient had painless hip range of motion and femoral head contour was maintained.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights a novel use of an arthroscopic camera inside the femoral head to visualize and debride the area of collapse, fill the cavity with cancellous bone graft, and use a VFFG to restore articular support preventing further deterioration of the hip joint.

[Short hip stem for THA in avascular necrosis of the femoral head]

INTRODUCTION

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head or avascular necrosis of the femoral head (HKN) is a complex disease that, without treatment, leads to infraction of the femoral head in most cases. In these cases, only replacement of the hip joint will help, although there is no clear recommendation of an arthroplasty type. In the last two decades, the treatment of primary and secondary coxarthrosis with short-shaft prostheses with different anchoring philosophies has increased. Since short-shaft fitting is a possible option especially in younger patients, the question arises about possible fittings of advanced HKN with these stem types, especially with metaphyseal anchorage. The aim of this study was to review the existing literature on the results of short stem prosthesis in HKN and to present the advantages and disadvantages of short stem prosthesis in osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This review analyzes the existing studies on short stem arthroplasty for HKN.

RESULTS

Only a few studies exist that have analyzed clinical and radiologic outcomes of short stem replacement in HKN.

CONCLUSION

The existing short- and medium-term results show mostly good outcomes. However, it is difficult to draw a general conclusion due to differences in stem design and fixation. Short stems with primary diaphyseal fixation do not show an increased risk of failed osseointegration or loosening. Constructions with primary metaphyseal fixation should undergo MRI to rule out the possibility of necrosis extending beyond the femoral neck.

Clinical Outcome of Surgical Hip Dislocation Combined with Impacting Bone Grafts and Implanting Iliac Bone Flaps in the Treatment of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Mid-term Retrospective Study

Objective

To report the medium‐term outcomes of surgical hip dislocation (SHD) combined with impacting bone grafts and implanting iliac bone flaps in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) and to define the indications for this treatment.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective study. In total, 64 patients (70 hips) with ONFH treated from January 2014 to December 2017 were included in this study. There were 51 males and 13 females aged 18–55 years with an average age of 32 years. All patients underwent surgery for SHD combined with impacting bone grafts and implanting iliac bone flaps. Preoperative and postoperative clinical outcomes were assessed. The clinical outcome was assessed using the Harris hip score (HHS) and the conversion rate of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors affecting the clinical outcome. Kaplan–Meier (K‐M) analysis was applied to calculate the survival rate of the femoral head.

Results

At the last follow‐up (60 ± 15.08 months), the HHS was excellent for 41 hips, good for 17 hips, fair for three hips, and poor for nine hips. All nine hips with poor HHS underwent THA, including five in the first 2 years following the index surgery and four between three and 5 years. The conversion rate of total hip arthroplasty was 12.86%. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that the duration of hip pain and JIC classification type were significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Elderly age and advanced ONFH stage tended to lead to worse surgical outcomes. The overall survival rate of JIC classification type C1 and duration of pain ≤6 months was 98.1% and 97.8% at 72 months, respectively, as estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Conclusion

Surgical hip dislocation combined with impacting bone grafts and implanting iliac bone flaps in the treatment of ONFH had a good mid‐term clinical outcome, especially for patients with retention of the lateral column of the femoral head and hip pain less than 1 year.

Clinical Application of the Musculoperiosteal Iliac Flap for Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) often affects young, active patients, and the femoral head's preservation is the primary goal of treatment for this disease. Vascularized iliac crest bone grafting is one of the many vascularized procedures used in treating ONHF. In some cases, we selectively performed this procedure using the musculoperiosteal iliac flap with the ascending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery for ONFH treatment.

METHODS

Twelve patients (12 hips) with nontraumatic femoral head necrosis underwent musculoperiosteal iliac flap transfer with the ascending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery. The Harris Hip Score (HHS), visual analog scale score, and double-hip X-ray findings were used to analyze hip function changes within 10 days preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean HHS increased from 52.33 ± 3.34 preoperatively to 65.92 ± 5.04 6 months postoperatively and 79.75 ± 3.84 12 months postoperatively, and the data showed a statistical significance difference between preoperative and postoperative (F = 131.90, P < 0.01). The HHS at 6 and 12 months after surgery were significantly different (P < 0.01). The visual analog scale score showed the same trend. The x-ray of hip joints at 6 and 12 months after surgery showed that the femoral heads' shape and contour were good, femoral heads did not collapse, and the transferred bone flaps healed well.

CONCLUSIONS

Musculoperiosteal iliac flap transfer with the ascending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery may be an effective method with a high clinical success rate for treating young patients with early to midstage ONFH.

Outcomes of free vascularized fibular graft for post-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

INTRODUCTION

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) can occur after traumatic injuries of the hip. Surgical treatment with total hip arthroplasty (THA) may not produce lifelong viability in younger patients. Free vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) has become a reliable method to delay or even avoid THA in this patient population by aiming to correct loss of viable bone through vascularized autologous bone transfer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longevity and outcomes of FVFG for traumatic hip injuries resulting in ONFH.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of our institutional database of patients who had undergone FVFG from 1980-2006 for post-traumatic ONFH and had a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Data collected included demographics, pre-operative Urbaniak ONFH staging, Harris Hip scores (HHS), SF-12 scores, and conversion to THA.

RESULTS

Seventy-two hips in 68 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up was 11.6 years (range 5.1-33.2 years). Etiology included femoral neck fracture in 36 patients (61%), hip dislocation in 7 (12%), trauma without fracture or dislocation in 11 (19%), and femoral neck nonunion in 5 (8%). The most common stage at presentation was stage IV (48 patients). Graft survival at final follow-up (mean 10.9 years) was 64%, with mean time to conversion to THA of 8.4 years in those that did not survive (36%). There was no difference between THA conversion rates in hips with pre-collapse (Stage I and II) versus impending or post-collapse (Stage III or IV) lesions (p = 0.227). In hips with surviving grafts at final follow-up, mean HHS improved from 56.7 to 77.3 (SD 24.57, range 69-93), a mean improvement of 20.6 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study reveals improvement in HHS in surviving FVFG and an acceptable overall THA conversion rate at mid to long term follow-up in Urbaniak stage I through IV hips. FVFG remains a viable option for treatment in younger patients with pre- and post-collapse (stage IV) ONFH lesions secondary to hip trauma.

Nomogram to predict collapse-free survival after core decompression of nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Background

Nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH) is a devastating disease, and the risk factors associated with progression into collapse after core decompression (CD) remain poorly defined. Therefore, we aim to define risk factors associated with collapse-free survival (CFS) after CD of precollapse NONFH and to propose a nomogram for individual risk prediction.

Methods

According to the baseline characteristics, clinical information, radiographic evaluations, and laboratory examination, a nomogram was developed using a single institutional cohort of patients who received multiple drilling for precollapse NONFH between January 2007 and December 2019 to predict CFS after CD of precollapse NONFH. Furthermore, we used C statistics, calibration plot, and Kaplan-Meier curve to test the discriminative ability and calibration of the nomogram to predict CFS.

Results

One hundred and seventy-three patients who underwent CD for precollapse NONFH were retrospectively screened and included in the present study. Using a multiple Cox regression to identify relevant risk factors, the following risk factors were incorporated in the prediction of CFS: acute onset of symptom (HR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.03–7.48; P = 0.043), necrotic location of Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) C1 and C2 (HR, 3.67; 95% CI, 1.20–11.27; P = 0.023), necrotic angle in the range of 250–299°(HR, 5.08; 95% CI, 1.73–14.93; P = 0.003) and > 299° (HR, 9.96; 95% CI, 3.23–30.70; P < 0.001), and bone marrow edema (BME) before CD (HR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.02-4.02; P = 0.042). The C statistics was 0.82 for CFS which revealed good discriminative ability and calibration of the nomogram.

Conclusions

Independent predictors of progression into collapse after CD for precollapse NONFH were identified to develop a nomogram predicting CFS. In addition, the nomogram could divide precollapse NONFH patients into prognosis groups and performed well in internal validation.

Clinical Follow-up Study of the Reconstruction of the Femoral Head With Transferred Vascularized Greater Trochanter Bone Graft for Association Research Circulation Osseous III-IV Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to investigate the curative efficacy of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) in a hip-preserving operative approach, by transferring a vascularized greater trochanter graft combined with osteotomy of the upper third of femoral head, in an attempt to seek an innovative approach for patients who experienced middle- to late-stage ONFH with femoral head's weight-bearing area severely collapsed.

METHOD

Our research included a total of 23 patients (23 hips) who accepted hip-preserving surgery by reconstructing the femoral head with transferred vascularized greater trochanter bone graft for ONFH from January 2013 to December 2017. The definition of reconstructing the femoral head is that we do the osteotomy on the upper third of the femoral head with weight-bearing area severely collapsed, and the remnant femoral head requires a hemispherical bone graft to recover the shape. A vascularized greater trochanter bone graft was next transferred and fixed at the upper portion of the remnant femoral head, and then, the shape and vascular supply of the femoral head are successfully reconstructed. The clinical assessment was performed with Harris Hip Score system. Kaplan-Meier survival curves with femoral head collapse as the end point showing the probability of progression in collapsed femoral head based on the gender, age and body mass index.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (23 hips) were eventually contacted by telephone for an outpatient clinic follow-up, with a mean follow-up time of 41.35 months (varied from 16 to 72 months), no patients lost contact. Seven patients (7 hips) had radiographic stage progress. One patient (1 hip) had conversion to total hip arthroplasty at 24 months postoperatively because of progressive femoral head collapse and severely pain. The image success rate was 69.6%, clinical success rate was 65.2%, and the clinical survival rate was 96%. The average Harris Hip Score was 82.5 ± 5.5 points at the last follow-up, representing a great improvement compared with the 51.9 ± 7.2 points obtained preoperatively (P<0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival curves with femoral head collapsed as the end point showing the probability of progression in collapsed femoral head based on the sex, age, and body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstructing the femoral head with transferred vascularized greater trochanter bone graft provides a new method for the treatment of the young Association Research Circulation Osseous stage III-IV ONFH patients with severely femoral head collapsed, which can better improve the patient's symptoms, the quality of life, and delay the age of undergoing arthroplasty in young patients.

Treatment of aseptic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: Historical aspects

The treatment of aseptic osteonecrosis (ON) of the femoral head has been the subject of numerous therapeutic and surgical proposals due to the absence of medical treatment with proven efficacy. For many years, the goal of surgical treatment was to avoid total hip replacement (THR) with uncertain survival in patients considered too young (30-50 years) for this procedure. Numerous conservative treatments were thus proposed: core decompression with numerous variants, non-vascularized and vascularized bone grafts, intertrochanteric and rotational transtrochanteric osteotomies, cementing. The lack of a common classification and a lack of knowledge of natural history complicated the interpretation of the results for a long time. Nevertheless, it appeared that these treatments were effective only in the very early stages and among these in the limited ONs, medial rather than central and especially lateral, with discrepancies according to etiologies apart from sickle cell disease recognized by all as being pejorative. For the same reason, partial arthroplasties have been attempted and abandoned in turn: femoral head total and partial resurfacing and femoral prosthesis. The most recent advances are stem-cell-enhanced core decompression and progress in total arthroplasty, whose reliability has made it possible to extend the indications to increasingly younger patients seeking treatment with guaranteed or near-guaranteed efficacy. Most of the other interventions have disappeared or almost disappeared because of their lack of effectiveness especially in extensive and post-fracture ONs, sometimes because of their complexity and the length of their post-operative management, and also because they complicate and penalize a future total arthroplasty. This argues for early detection of ON at an early stage where the "head can be saved" by stem cell augmented core decompression, a minimally invasive treatment that leaves the chances of success of a THR intact.

The outcome of hyperbaric oxygen therapy versus core decompression in the non-traumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head: Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Core decompression (CD) has been used in the treatment of pre-collapse stages avascular necrosis (AVN) with good results. Hyperbaric oygen therapy (HBO) was used as a non-invasive treatment for pre-collapse stages osteonecrosis with favorable results. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of HBO versus CD in stage II of non-traumatic AVN of the femoral head.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively for patients with non-traumatic AVN of the femoral head that was confirmed by MRI and underwent HBO or CD between January 2010 and December 2018, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Oxford Hip Score (OHS), radiographic progression, and Short-Form 12(SF12) were used to assess the outcomes.

Results

Nineteen patients with 23 stage II AVN of the femoral head were included, 12 (52.2%) in CD, and 11 (47.8%) in the HBO group with an average follow-up of 34.2 ± 18.4 months.

66.7% of patients in CD and 81.8% in the HBO group achieved satisfactory hip function outcome with statistically significant mean Oxford Hip Score (35.8 ± 6.7 and 35.5 ± 5.1) (P 0.009 & .003) respectively.

No statistical difference of OHS and SF12 (PCS &MCS) was found between the two groups (P 0.202, 0.128 & .670 respectively).

Eight (34.7%) cases progressed to a higher radiological stage at one year follow-up. The rate of progression was not statistically significant between both groups (P 0.469) with no statistical difference of OHS and SF12 (PCS & MCS) in the progressed group (P 0.747, 0.648 & 0.416) respectively.

Conclusion

This study showed that the HBO is promising and as effective as CD in the treatment of non-traumatic pre-collapsed AVN of the femoral head. Hence, HBO could be used as an alternative non-invasive treatment option.

•

Osteonecrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a potentially disabling disorder.

•

Core decompression (CD) is the gold standard treatment for the pre-collapse stages.

•

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is a new treatment option with favorable results.

•

No consensus regarding the best method for the pre-collapse stages AVN.

•

Both options achieved a significant satisfactory hip function outcome with no difference between the two.

Bone marrow lesion on magnetic resonance imaging indicates the last chance for hip osteonecrosis treated with vascularized fibular grafting before collapse

PURPOSE

Timing of surgery is the most critical prognostic factor for hip osteonecrosis treated with free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG). Bone marrow lesion (BML) on MRI usually occurs immediately before femoral head collapse. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate whether the noncollapsed hips with BML can benefit from FVFG.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing modified FVFG were identified from our clinical repository between January 2014 and December 2014. Based on whether BML was pre-operatively detected, the four year radiographic and clinical outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

In the BML cohort, 22 of 53 hips (42%) showed radiographic signs of osteonecrosis progression, which was significantly higher than that in the control cohort (8 of 49, 16%; P = 0.005). The BML hips showed a significantly lower pre-operative Harris Hip Score (HHS) than those without BML (77.8 vs. 85.5, P = 0.046), whereas no such difference was observed in the final HHS or its post-operative improvement (HHS 90 vs. 94, P = 0.397; HHS improvement 12 vs. 8, P = 0.067). In the subgroup of patients with a pre-operative HHS lower than 80, BML hips were associated with a slightly lower final HHS than hips without BML. Four of 5 (80%) failed hips with BML had a poor pre-operative hip function.

CONCLUSION

BML indicates the last chance for a reproducible improvement in the treatment of hip osteonecrosis with FVFG before collapse. However, the concomitant lower pre-operative HHS (< 80) is a poor prognostic factor for BML-positive hips.

Recent developments in biomaterials for long-bone segmental defect reconstruction: A narrative overview

Reconstruction of long-bone segmental defects (LBSDs) has been one of the biggest challenges in orthopaedics. Biomaterials for the reconstruction are required to be strong, osteoinductive, osteoconductive, and allowing for fast angiogenesis, without causing any immune rejection or disease transmission. There are four main types of biomaterials including autograft, allograft, artificial material, and tissue-engineered bone. Remarkable progress has been made in LBSD reconstruction biomaterials in the last ten years.

THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE

Our aim is to summarize recent developments in the divided four biomaterials utilized in the LBSD reconstruction to provide the clinicians with new information and comprehension from the biomaterial point of view.

Effects of surgical approaches and morphological characteristics on the follow up outcomes of patients with posterolateral tibial plateau fractures

This study aimed to study the effects of surgical approaches and identify the morphological characteristics associated with the 1-year follow-up outcome of patients with posterolateral tibial plateau fractures after successful surgery.We followed 200 postoperative patients for 1 year. The modified Hospital for Special Knee Surgery score (HSS score) was used to evaluate the functional recovery of the knee. We supposed 4 morphological characteristics in CT images acting as possible risk factors, including the anteroposterior diameters of posterolateral broken bone fragments (fragment-diameter), the damage to the posterolateral cortex of the tibial head (cortex-damage), the combinational fracture of the proximal fibula (fibula-fracture) or fracture of the medial tibial condyle (medial-condyle-fracture). Multivariate regression models were used to analyze the effect of these factors on the HSS score after adjusting the 2 surgical approaches and other confounders.The average HSS score was 85.1 ± 5.8 for all the patients. We treated 155 patients with the anterolateral approach and 45 patients with the posterolateral approach. The surgical approach, fragment-diameter, fibula-fracture, and medial-condyle-fracture were correlated with the HSS scores (P < .05). After adjusting for the above factors, the Schatzker type, age and gender, compared with anterolateral approach, the posterolateral approach could improve the HSS scores by an average of 3.7 points. The fragment-diameter <20 mm and posterolateral approach interacted on the HSS scores. Comparing posterolateral and anterolateral approaches, we found that the HSS scores of patients with fragment-diameter <20 mm increased by 6.1 points (95% CI: 4.1-8.2) in the posterolateral approach, while those with fragment-diameter ≥20 mm did not significantly improve the HSS scores.The surgical approach, fragment-diameter, fibula-fracture, and medial-condyle-fracture were independent risk factors associated with the follow-up outcome of patients with posterolateral tibial plateau fractures after successful surgery. The posterolateral approach could significantly improve the HSS score in the studied hospital.

A 3D printed porous titanium alloy rod with biogenic lamellar configuration for treatment of the early-stage femoral head osteonecrosis in sheep

There is no ideal implant for mechanical strut on early-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) after core decompression. In this study, a biogenic trabecular porous titanium rod with lamellar configuration was designed and fabricated using selective laser melting technique. Early-stage ONFH of sheep induced by cryo-insult were dealt with core decompression combined with rod insertion (Rod group) and core decompression alone (CD group) after X-ray evaluation was used to assess the necrotic region one months after cryo-intervention. Bone integration and ingrowth of the two groups were investigated and compared. Early-stage ONFH intervened with the rod gained better bone ingrowth than CD 3 and 6 months after the intervention, as evidenced by radiographic, micro-CT and histological evaluation. X-ray images showed compact integration between rods and peripheral bone, evidenced by no radiolucent lines encircling the rods at 3 and 6 months. Micro-CT and histological images showed that the new bone had grown into the centre of rods along the metal at 3 months, whereas the new bone grew mainly at the periphery of the decompressive channel. Micro-CT analysis show that the ratios of bone volume to total volume (BV/TV) of volume of interest (VOI) in Rod group was 890.0% and 438.1% higher than CD group at 3 (0.198 ± 0.0094 VS 0.020 ± 0.0058, p < 0.05, n = 3) and 6 (0.226 ± 0.0166 VS 0.042 ± 0.0061, p < 0.05, n = 3) months respectively. Histological analysis showed that the BV/TV of VOI in Rod group was 881.0% and 413.3% higher than CD group at 3 (0.206 ± 0.0102 VS 0.021 ± 0.0061, p < 0.05, n = 3) and 6 (0.231 ± 0.0156 VS 0.045 ± 0.0059, p < 0.05, n = 3) months respectively. The mechanical tests revealed that the maximum load of Rod group was 57.6% larger than CD group at 6 months (4505.25 ± 443.86 N VS 2858.25 ± 512.91 N, p < 0.05, n = 3). These favourable short-term results can provide insight on treatment of early-stage ONFH.

Mid- to long-term results of modified non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting for early femoral head necrosis

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine mid-and-long term follow-up results of patients with early femoral head osteonecrosis who were treated by modified free vascularized fibular grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting.

Methods

Forty-four patients at early ONFH were included in this study. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, range of hip motion (ROM), and Harris hip score (HHS) were recorded to assess the clinical outcome; Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scores and Short Form 36 health survey (SF-36) were conducted to measure the living quality; X-ray film or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate radiographic progression; survivorship was defined as patients did not undergo the total hip arthroplasty (THA) or fusion at the last follow-up. Median follow-up was 7.4 years (6–8.2 years).

Results

The mean VAS score, ROM, and HHS were significantly improved at the final follow-up compared with preoperative values (p < 0.001). Health assessment including WOMAC scores and SF-36 were also better than those preoperatively (p < 0.001). Seven patients progressed to Ficat III and the four patients progressed to Ficat IV with osteoarthritis. Eight patients who cannot tolerate the pain and had poor living quality underwent THA.

Conclusion

Modified non-vascularized allogeneic fibula Grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting could improve the clinical outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients with early ONFH.

Complications After Pediatric Hip Fractures: Evaluation and Management

Pediatric proximal femur fractures are high-energy injuries with predictable and morbid complications. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is the most common complication with identified risk factors including fracture type, patient's age, degree of displacement, timing to reduction, and stability of fixation. Additional complications include nonunion, coxa vara, and premature physeal arrest. The mainstay of treatment for traumatic pediatric osteonecrosis is hip preservation with total hip arthroplasty being reserved as a salvage procedure. An anatomic fracture reduction and a biomechanically stable construct are critical to prevent both nonunion and osteonecrosis. This review will look at the individual surgical interventions for the management of the associated complications of pediatric proximal femur fractures.

Retrospective Long-Term Follow-Up Survival Analysis of the Management of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head With Pedicled Vascularized Iliac Bone Graft Transfer

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) often affects young, active adults and leads to the destruction of the hip joint and disabling arthritis. Several procedures have been developed to prevent conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially in young patients who have a high rate of hip revision surgery. The aim of this long-term follow-up is to analyze the results of vascularized iliac bone flap transfer for ONFH treatment.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 856 patients (1006 hips) who accepted hip-preserving surgery with vascularized iliac bone grafting due to ONFH (Ficat and Arlet stages II-IV) from January 1985 to December 2012 at our hospital. Radiographic assessment was performed with the Ficat and Arlet system, clinical assessment was performed with the Harris Hip Score system, and quality of life was evaluated with the 36-Item Short Form Survey. The hips included 575 stage II hips, 382 stage III hips, and 49 stage IV hips. We defined clinical failure as conversion to THA or any other hip-preserving surgery because of hip symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 856 patients (1006 hips) were eventually followed up with an average time of 15 years (range 5-25). In total, 75 patients were lost to follow-up, and 105 hips were converted to THA. The average Harris Hip Score was 87.43 ± 6.42 points at the last follow-up, representing a great improvement compared to the 66.42 ± 6.52 points obtained preoperatively. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed no difference in the 15-year survival rate between patients with stages II and III disease (using THA as an end point). However, the survival rate was lower for patients with stage IV disease than that for patients with stages II and III disease. The survival rate for patients in the glucocorticoid group was lower than that for patients in the idiopathic, alcoholic, and trauma groups. The Physical Component Summary scores ranged from 78 ± 10 to 85 ± 14 postoperatively compared to 30 ± 14 to 55 ± 15 preoperatively, and the postoperative Mental Component Summary scores (range from 34 ± 11 to 59 ± 12) were significantly higher than the preoperative scores (range from 72 ± 11 to 90 ± 10), representing great improvement in patient quality of life. Postoperative complications occurred in 86 patients (4.5%) during the follow-up, including 23 patients with deep venous thrombosis, 16 patients with meralgia paresthetica (which resolved), and 47 patients with secondary wound healing.

CONCLUSION

The vascularized iliac bone flap grafting technique yields significant improvement (particularly in the precollapse disease stages in young patients) for restoration of the biomechanical support of the collapsed femoral head and reconstruction of the blood supply to the osteonecrotic area. This procedure allows these patients to avoid or delay the need for THA surgery.

A comparative study of cortico-cancellous iliac bone graft with or without the combination of vascularized greater trochanter flap for the management of femoral head osteonecrosis: a minimum 6 years follow-up

BACKGROUND

To compare the mid-long-term clinical and radiological outcomes between a combination of cortico-cancellous iliac bone graft with vascularized greater trochanter flap (Group A) and isolate iliac bone graft (Group B) in the treatment of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head (ONFH).

METHODS

From January 2006 to December 2012, 123 patients (135 hips) who underwent abovementioned hip-preserving surgeries were included for analysis. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on Harris Hip Score (HHS) System and The Western Ontario and McMaster University Index (WOMAC) scores between the preoperative and the last follow-up. A series of postoperative X-rays were compared to preoperative images for radiological evaluation.

RESULTS

The HHS in Group A and B were enhanced from 50.57 ± 3.39 to 87.60 ± 4.15 and from 50.24 ± 3.30 to 85.18 ± 6.45, respectively, which both showed significance between preoperative and postoperative latest follow-up (p < 0.001). Group A revealed better improvement in terms of HHS (p = 0.017). The WOMAC total, postoperative stiffness, difficulty subscale scores in Group A showed better outcomes when compared to Group B (p < 0.01), while pain improvement between these two groups revealed no significance (p = 0.402). Besides, Group A suggested better necrotic region repair (p = 0.020), but no femoral head collapse difference in terms of Association Research Circulation Osseous classification change was found (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of cortico-cancellous iliac bone graft and concurrent vascularized greater trochanter flap with the lateral femoral circumflex transverse branch has been proved can obtain better functional and radiological results than isolate iliac bone grafting, which is attributed to blood reconstruction of the femoral head.

The outcome of the partial resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip shows high numbers of failures and conversion to total arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Local cartilage and bony defects, which are too large for joint preserving cartilage treatment are difficult to treat. The implantation of a mini-resurfacing implant (Hemicap®, 2med, Hamburg, Germany) may be a possible alternative treatment for these patients. This partial replacement fills the defect and restores a smooth and continuous articular surface. The aim of this study was to determine short- to midterm results of the treatment of local cartilage defects of the femoral head using the Hemicap®.

METHODS

Since 04/2011 16 patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head greater ARCO stage II or local femoral cartilage lesions (< 35 mm) were treated with the implantation of the Hemicap® implant. A clinical and radiological follow-up was conducted.

RESULTS

The clinical results showed a significant improvement of the function and pain of the hip according to the Harris Hip Score from 56 (±14) preoperative to 77 (±15) post-operative 25 months after implantation of the Hemicap®. In the meantime, in four patients the Hemicap® had to be converted to a total hip arthroplasty due to loosening, progredience of the osteonecrosis or degeneration of the acetabulum.

CONCLUSIONS

The implantation of the mini-resurfacing implant Hemicap® seemed to be an alternative treatment for local cartilage defects of the femoral head to postpone the implantation of a total hip arthroplasty. However, the clinical outcome seems to be inferior to total hip arthroplasty. Furthermore, due to a high rate of conversion to total hip arthroplasty (25%) the application of this implant is questionable. If the implant is considered as a treatment option at least patient selection and enlightenment for this treatment with the high risk of failure and progression of osteoarthritis is very important.

Management of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with pedicled iliac bone flap transfer: A multicenter study of 2190 patients

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) often affects young active adults and leads to destruction of the hip joint and disabling arthritis. Several procedures have been developed to arrest the progress of osteonecrosis and postpone the procedure of total hip replacement especially in young patients. The aim of this multicenter study was to analyze the results of the use of the vascularized iliac bone flap transfer for management of ONFH.

METHODS

From January 1985 to December 2012, a total of 2190 patients (2690 hips) with the mean age of 43.15 years (ranging from 18 to 65 years) underwent hip-preserving surgery with the pedilced iliac bone flap transfer for management of ONFH with Ficat and Arlet stage II-IV in 8 hospitals. There were 1733 hips in stage II, 776 hips in stage III, and 181 hips in stage IV preoperatively. The complications were recorded. The outcomes were evaluated by radiograph, the Harris hip-scoring system (HHS).

RESULTS

Postoperative complications occurred in 128 patients (5.84%). Among them, 25 patients had deep venous thromboses, 16 patients had sensory deficits, 40 patients had superficial infection and hematoma, and 47 patients had wound dehiscence. A total of 1912 patients (2179 hips) were followed up with a median time of 12 years (ranging from 5 to 25 years). There were 1787 hips with no radiographic osteonecrotic progress during follow-up, while osteonecrosis progress was observed in 186 hips with stage II (13.1%), 170 hips with stage III (25.6%) and 36 hips with stage IV (36.4%; P < .001). Two hundred fifteen hips (9.87%) in 203 patients were converted to THA during follow-up, including 19 hips with stage II (1.34%), 162 hips with stage III (24.4%), and 34 hips with stage IV (34.3%).The mean HHS at the end of follow-up was significantly improved when compared to preoperative mean HHS (83.63 ± 5.03 vs. 66.54 ± 6.05, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this evaluation of a large series of cases, the vascularized iliac bone flap transfer showed good results for arresting the osteonecrosis progress and improving the hip function of patients with pre-collapse stages of ONFH.

Hemodynamic changes in osteonecrosis treatment of the femoral head with iliac bone flaps pedicled with the lateral femoral circumflex artery ascending branch: A 10-year report

BACKGROUND

Vascularized bone grafting was used in the treatment of osteonecrosis femoral head, which may directly influence the pathologic event of femoral head.

OBJECTIVE

This paper evaluates hemodynamic changes in osteonecrosis treatment of the femoral head (ONFH) with iliac bone flaps from the lateral femoral circumflex artery ascending branches via digital subtraction angiography.

METHODS

A total of 48 patients, (31 males and 17 females; 38 at stage II and 10 at stage III), were treated with iliac bone flaps pedicled with the ascending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery. DSA was performed on all 48 patients preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively, and 10 years postoperatively on 1 patient.

RESULTS

Six months after surgery, femoral head blood supplies were distinctly visualized in the selective DSA in 44 cases. 4 patients showed poor or failed vessel pedicle filling in the transplanted bone flaps. Total hip arthroplasty was performed on these 4 patients. DSA was conducted 10 years post-operation in 1 case; the subject showed normal blood supply of the femoral head.

CONCLUSIONS

The anatomical position of the ascending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery was constant. Digital subtraction angiography successfully examined hemodynamic changes in osteonecrosis treatment of the femoral head with vascularized bone flaps.

Atraumatic Femoral Head Necrosis in Adults

BACKGROUND

Atraumatic necrosis of the femoral head is a common cause of hip arthrosis in middle age. In Germany, it affects 5000-7000 patients per year, corresponding to an incidence of 0.01%. Though rarer than primary hip arthrosis, it is still of major clinical and socio-economic significance. Patients with this problem should be diagnosed early and given stage-appropriate treatment.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications that were retrieved by a selective search in the PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases using the terms "osteonecrosis," "femoral head necrosis," "diagnosis," "classification," "conservative treatment," "surgical treatment," "joint preservation," "osteotomy," and "arthroplasty," as well as a recent guideline on atraumatic necrosis of the femoral head in adults.

RESULTS

The etiology and pathogenesis of atraumatic femoral head necrosis in adults are not yet fully clear. The main risk factor is prolonged corticosteroid treatment. Nonspecific complaints and an initially normal plain x-ray of the hip can delay the diagnosis. The diagnosis is established by plain x-ray, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance tomography, and scintigraphy. Conservative treatment alone is not considered adequate. The range of surgical treatments includes joint-preserving and (for more severe necrosis) joint-resecting methods.

CONCLUSION

Atraumatic femoral head necrosis in adults is a disease that progresses in stages; depending on its stage, it can either be cured or lead to hip arthrosis. A full cure is possible only in early stages. Current research focuses on the effect of new drugs on the intermediateand long-term outcome.

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with free vascularized fibular grafting: Results of 7.6-year follow-up

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine long term follow up of the patients who had femoral head osteonecrosis and had been treated with free vascularized fibular grafting.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively reviewed 28 hips of 21 patients who had undergone free vascularized fibular grafting for the treatment of osteonecrosis of femoral head. There were 16 male and 5 female patients. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 30.7 years (between 15 and 53 years). The mean follow-up time was 7.6 years (between 5 years and 9.2 years).

Results

During follow-up, one patient died because of leukemia, and one patient was lost. The remaining 26 hips of 19 patients were evaluated. According to the Ficat classification, at the time of surgery, 17 hips were in grade 2 and 9 hips were in grade 3. The post-operative Harris hip scores in grade II disease were excellent in 12 patients, good in 3 patients, and fair in 1 patient. In grade III disease, 1 patient was excellent, 5 patients were good, and 1 patient was fair. There was a significant increase in HHS scores (61 ± 9.7 vs 84 ± 17.8, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Free vascularized fibular grafting yields extremely good results, particularly in pre-collapse stages of disease in young patients. The operation time does not mark increased if the surgical team is “familiar” with the procedure, and the residual fibular defect of the donor site does not impair the functions of daily living.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, Therapeutic study.

Hip arthroplasty for treatment of advanced osteonecrosis: comprehensive review of implant options, outcomes and complications

Surgical treatment for late stage (post-collapse) osteonecrosis of the femoral head is controversial. In these situations, the outcome of joint preservation procedures is poor. There are several arthroplasty options for late-stage disease. The clinical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty and hemiresurfacing are unpredictable because of progressive acetabular cartilage degeneration. Total hip resurfacing may be associated with further vascular insult to the femoral head and early failure of the implant. Total hip replacement with metal-on-conventional polyethylene bearing surfaces has been the gold standard, but implant survivorship is limited in young active patients due to wear and osteolysis. Newer alternative bearing surfaces may have improved wear characteristics, but their durability must be confirmed in longer-term studies.

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with core decompression and bone grafting

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a disorder that can lead to femoral head collapse. Various procedures have been advocated to avert the need for total hip replacement. These include vascularised and non-vascularised bone grafting procedures. We examined the effect of core decompression combined with an allogeneic, antigen-extracted, autolysed fibular allograft and autologous impacted bone grafting for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. The study included 162 patients (223 hips; 61 females, 101 males; mean age 33.5 years, range 19-54 years) with stage II-III avascular necrosis of the femoral head according to the ARCO (Association Research Circulation Osseous) classification. The outcome was determined by changes in the Harris hip score, by progression in radiographic stages, and by the need for hip replacement. The mean follow-up was 24 months (range 7- 42 months). Statistical evaluation included Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. The mean Harris hip score increased from 61 to 85. Excellent and good results were obtained in 93.3% of cases in stage II, and 87% in stages III with a survivorship of 81% in all cases. Core decompression combined with an allogeneic, antigen-extracted, autolysed fibular allograft and autologous impacted bone grafting may be the treatment of choice, particularly in the precollapse stage.

S3-Guideline non-traumatic adult femoral head necrosis

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of adult non-traumatic avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN; N-ANFH) within an estimated incidence of 5000-7000 cases per annum in Germany remains a challenge. Risk factors include steroids, alcohol abuse, chemotherapy and immunosuppressive medication, but a genetic predisposition has been suggested. Early diagnosis of this often bilateral disease process is essential for successful conservative or joint preserving surgical management. In this review, we present the update German consensus S3 guideline "diagnosis and management for N-ANFH" as a concise summary.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review is based on the published literature from January 1, 1970 to April 31, 2013 (German and English language). Inclusion criteria were systematic reviews, meta-analyses and relevant peer review publications. We identified a total of 3715 related publications, of which 422 were suitable according to the SIGN criteria, but only 159 fulfilled our inclusion criteria.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Clinical suspicion of N-ANFH mandates radiographic evaluation. If radiographs are normal MRI scans are recommended, which should be evaluated according to the ARCO-classification. Differential diagnoses include transient osteoporosis, bone bruise, insufficiency fracture and destructive arthropathy. Untreated, subchondral fractures commonly occur within 2 years, during which the risk for contralateral involvement is high-thereafter unlikely. Conservative management with Ilomedin and Alendronat can be tried, but other pharmacological or physical treatments are inappropriate. No specific joint preserving procedure can be recommended, but core decompression should be considered in early stages if necrosis is <30 %. In ARCO stages IIIc or IV total hip arthroplasty (THA) should be contemplated, which offers similar outcome compared to osteoarthritis. Young age is the main risk factor for higher revision rates after THA for N-ANFH.

From the radiologic pathology archives imaging of osteonecrosis: radiologic-pathologic correlation

Osteonecrosis is common and represents loss of blood supply to a region of bone. Common sites affected include the femoral head, humeral head, knee, femoral/tibial metadiaphysis, scaphoid, lunate, and talus. Symptomatic femoral head osteonecrosis accounts for 10,000-20,000 new cases annually in the United States. In contradistinction, metadiaphyseal osteonecrosis is often occult and asymptomatic. There are numerous causes of osteonecrosis most commonly related to trauma, corticosteroids, and idiopathic. Imaging of osteonecrosis is frequently diagnostic with a serpentine rim of sclerosis on radiographs, photopenia in early disease at bone scintigraphy, and maintained yellow marrow at MR imaging with a serpentine rim of high signal intensity (double-line sign) on images obtained with long repetition time sequences. These radiologic features correspond to the underlying pathology of osseous response to wall off the osteonecrotic process and attempts at repair with vascularized granulation tissue at the reactive interface. The long-term clinical importance of epiphyseal osteonecrosis is almost exclusively based on the likelihood of overlying articular collapse. MR imaging is generally considered the most sensitive and specific imaging modality both for early diagnosis and identifying features that increase the possibility of this complication. Treatment subsequent to articular collapse and development of secondary osteoarthritis typically requires reconstructive surgery. Malignant transformation of osteonecrosis is rare and almost exclusively associated with metadiaphyseal lesions. Imaging features of this dire sequela include aggressive bone destruction about the lesion margin, cortical involvement, and an associated soft-tissue mass. Recognizing the appearance of osteonecrosis, which reflects the underlying pathology, improves radiologic assessment and is important to guide optimal patient management.

Femoral head bone viability after free vascularized fibular grafting for osteonecrosis: SPECT/CT study

PURPOSE

To evaluate femoral head bone viability following free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) for osteonecrosis using SPECT/CT imaging.

METHODS

Ten hips (9 patients) with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) undergoing FVFG were prospectively enrolled. Four cases showed ARCO stage II, while six showed ARCO stage III. The mean age at surgery was 15.7 years (range, 13-22 years). Hip Harris Score (HHS) was measured pre- and post-operative. Bone scintigraphy with SPECT/CT was performed at 2 weeks and 6 months following surgery.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 4.0 years (range, 2-5.9 years). Mean HHS increased from 37.2 to 92.3. SPECT/CT findings revealed a progressive increase of femoral head uptake in all cases, suggesting subchondral graft bone viability. No progressive deformation of the femoral head was evidenced in radiographic evaluation at final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates FVFG's capacity for revitalizing femoral head subchondral bone grafting in patients with ONFH, surgically treated following Urbaniak's technique. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:573-577, 2016.

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with vascularized bone grafting

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a challenging diagnosis for the patient and treating surgeon. Though its cause is poorly understood, several methods of surgical treatment exist and are performed with variable success. Vascularized bone grafting is one such treatment that attempts to restore viable bone, structural support, and blood supply to the avascular portion of the femoral head. This review summarizes the various approaches to this technique that have been proposed and put into practice. The cost effectiveness of these procedures, both in time and resources, has been evaluated and found to be favorable. The use of revascularization procedures, along with the introduction of other potentiating factors, may signal an exciting future for this debilitating disease process.

Short-stem hip arthroplasty in osteonecrosis of the femoral head

INTRODUCTION

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a locally destructive and complex disorder. Without treatment, infraction of the femoral head is likely. There is also a lack of consensus in the literature about the most appropriate arthroplasty method in patients with progressive ONFH. During the last decade, the number of short-stem prostheses has increased. Some short-stem designs have a metaphyseal anchorage. It is questionable whether ONFH represents a risk factor for failure after implantation of short stems. The aim of this study was to review existing literature regarding the outcome of short-stem arthroplasty in ONFH and to present the pros and cons of short-stem hip arthroplasty in osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review summarises existing studies on short-stem hip arthroplasty in osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

RESULTS

Few studies have analysed the clinical and radiological outcome of short-stem THA in patients with ONFH. Only a handful of studies present clinical and radiological outcome after implantation of a short-stem arthroplasty in patients with the underlying diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

CONCLUSION

The short- to medium-term results show predominantly good outcomes. However, due to differences in the design of short stems and their fixation, it is hard to draw a general conclusion. Short stems with primary diaphyseal fixation do not reveal a high increased risk of failed osseointegration or loosening. For designs with a primary metaphyseal anchorage, an MRI should be conducted to exclude that the ostenecrosis exceeds the femoral neck.

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with focal anatomic-resurfacing implantation (HemiCAP): preliminary results of an alternative option

Background

The optimal treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head has not been established yet. The aim of this study was to report preliminary clinical results of focal anatomic-resurfacing implantation for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

Methods

Five patients (four male, one female) with seven surgical procedures, ages between 37 and 52 with an average age of 45.2 (+/− 7.2), diagnosed as femoral head avascular necrosis and who were unresponsive to conservative management or had failed previous surgical treatments were treated with a focal anatomic femoral head resurfacing between the years 2011–2012 and were retrospectively reviewed. Five patients with at least two years of follow-up, one left hip, two right hips, and two patients with bilateral hip surgery were included in this review. After safe surgical dislocation of the hip, full exposure of the femoral head was established. A focal-resurfacing implant matching patient anatomy and femoral head curvature was performed accordingly. Neither intraoperative or postoperative complications nor revision ensued. Visual analogue scores and Harris Hip Scores were recorded both preoperatively and at postoperative 2 years for all seven surgeries.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 26.6 +/− 3.8 months, with a range between 24–33 months. The mean visual analogue scores were 8.9 +/− 0.9 preoperatively and 2.3 +/− 1.0 postoperatively at year two (p = 0.017). Harris Hip Scores at postoperative follow-up were found to improve significantly from good to excellent scores (86.0 +/− 7.9), compared with preoperative poor scores (26.7 +/− 11.8) (p = 0.018). The clinical improvements in visual analogue scores (VAS) and Harris Hip Scores were also found to correlate with each other (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In the present study, the alternative technique of focal anatomic hip resurfacing with HemiCAP® yielded preliminary successful results for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case series in the literature, reporting functional clinical results with the use of a focal anatomic-resurfacing implant for the treatment of focal femoral head osteonecrosis.

Managing AVN following internal fixation: treatment options and clinical results

Avascular necrosis (AVN) after internal fixation of intracapsular hip fractures is a progressive multifactorial disease that ultimately results in local ischemia with ensuing osteocyte necrosis and structural compromise. This disease can cause significant clinical morbidity and affects patients of any age, including young and active patients. Effective treatment of this condition among young adults is challenging due to their high functional demands. The aim of managing AVN is to relieve pain, preserve range of movement and improve function. Treatment methods vary depending on the stage of the disease and can be broadly categorised into two options, hip preserving surgery and hip arthroplasty. Although, hip preserving techniques are attractive in the young adult, they may alter the morphology of the proximal femur and make subsequent arthroplasty more challenging. Conversely, arthroplasty in the young adult may require repeat revision procedures throughout the patient's life. Current evidence suggests that modifications of prevailing treatments, in addition to new technologies, have led to the development of management strategies that may be able to alter the course of femoral head osteonecrosis. This review aims to summarise the options available for treatment of AVN in the young adult and review the clinical results.

Autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells associated with tantalum rod implantation and vascularized iliac grafting for the treatment of end-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Tantalum rod implantation with vascularized iliac grafting has been reported to be an effective method for the treatment of young patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) to avert the need for total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, there have been unsatisfactory success rates for end-stage ONFH. The authors describe a modified technique using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) associated with porous tantalum rod implantation combined with vascularized iliac grafting for the treatment of end-stage ONFH. A total of 24 patients (31 hips) with end-stage ONFH were treated with surgery; ARCO IIIc stage was observed in 19 hips and ARCO IV stage was observed in 12 hips. All patients were followed for a mean time of 64.35 ± 13.03 months (range 26–78). Operations on only five hips were converted to THA. The joint-preserving success rate of the entire group was 89.47% for ARCO stage IIIc and 75% for ARCO stage IV. The mean Harris hip score of the 31 hips improved significantly from 38.74 ± 5.88 points (range 22–50) to 77.23 ± 14.75 points (range 33–95). This intervention was safe and effective in delaying or avoiding total hip replacement for end-stage ONFH.

Core decompression treatment of early-stage osteonecrosis of femoral head resulted from venous stasis or artery blood supply insufficiency

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to explore the therapeutic effect of core decompression on different hemodynamics changes associated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

METHODS

A total of 67 patients with 76 hips suffering from ONFH (Arco stage I-IIC) received core decompression surgical procedure. Radiographic, magnetic resonance imaging, and digital subtraction angiography examinations were performed before operation. Radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging follow-ups were also performed after 12, 24, and 60 mo of operation. Clinical follow-ups were performed using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) for an average period of 5 y postoperation.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time ranged from 2-8 y with an average of 5 y. Two hips were lost during follow-up. Successful clinical efficacy (HHS ≥80) was achieved in 91.9% (68/74) of the hips. Six hips had conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), one hip had venous stasis, and five hips had both vein stasis and artery blood supply insufficiency. The mean HHS for the patients who did not have conversion to THA improved from 65 ± 3.5 to 89 ± 3.6 (mean ± standard deviation). Twenty-six stage I hips (100%), 22 of 23 stage IIA hips (95.7%), 13 of 15 stage IIB hips (86.7%), and 8 of 10 stage IIC hips (80%) had successful outcomes with no surgical complications. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that 8-y survival rate was significantly different between stage I and stage IIC (THA as an end point; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with early-stage ONFH resulted from only venous stasis, core decompression led to a significant improvement in HHS and 8-y survival rate. However, the long-term efficacy for ONFH associated with artery blood supply insufficiency was not encouraging. Therefore, preoperative digital subtraction angiography is necessary before performing core decompression.

Midterm results of treating femoral head osteonecrosis with autogenous corticocancellous bone grafting

BACKGROUND

Appropriate treatment of osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) remains challenging.

OBJECTIVES

Here, we report the results of treating these patients with auto-corticocancellous bone graft from iliac crest to overcome the need for early total hip arthroplasty (THA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

There were 132 hips (96 patients) with ONFH. Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) type II and III underwent auto-corticocancellous bone grafting from the iliac crest in the current prospective study. Before the operation and in the final postoperative visit, the pain intensity using visual analogue scale (VAS), range of hip motions and Harris hip score (HHS) were determined and compared. Patients were followed for 48.5 ± 17.9 months.

RESULTS

The shape of head and the joint space were preserved in 120 hips (90.9%). There were 12 hips in which the disease progressed to grade IV and resulted in THA in 10 of them. The pain intensity significantly decreased (6.3 ± 4.1 vs. 1.4 ± 2) and HHS (35.8 ± 15.3 vs. 79.5 ± 16.2) and range of motion (ROM) significantly improved after the operation (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Necrotic bone removal and filling the femoral head cavity with auto-corticocancellous bone graft from iliac crest is an effective femoral head preserving method in treating patients with precollapse stages of ONFH and preventing the need for early THA, especially in young active populations.

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head: evaluation and treatment

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head may lead to progressive destruction of the hip joint. Although the etiology of osteonecrosis has not been definitely delineated, risk factors include corticosteroid use, alcohol consumption, trauma, and coagulation abnormalities. Size and location of the lesion are prognostic factors for disease progression and are best assessed by MRI. The efficacy of medical management of osteonecrosis with pharmacologic agents and biophysical modalities requires further investigation. Surgical management is based on patient factors and lesion characteristics. Preservation of the femoral head may be attempted in younger patients without head collapse by core decompression with vascularized bone grafts, avascular grafts, bone morphogenetic proteins, stem cells, or combinations of the above or rotational osteotomies. The optimal treatment modality has not been identified. When the femoral head is collapsed, arthroplasty is the preferred option.

Summary of the various treatments for osteonecrosis of the femoral head by mechanism: A review

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), also known as femoral head avascular necrosis, is a pathological state with a number of possible etiologies including steroid administration, alcohol abuse, traumatic events, vascular injury and idiopathic origins. ONFH causes a reduction in the vascular supply to the subchondral bone of the femoral head, which results in osteocyte death and the collapse of the articular surface. Treatments for ONFH include non-weight-bearing therapy, physical support, the promotion of osteoclast apoptosis, and the reduction of osteoblast and osteocyte apoptosis. The aim of the present review was to summarize the treatments for ONFH by mechanism from a new perspective and to describe the condition with an emphasis on treatment options.

Free vascularized fibular grafting for patients receiving postoperative corticosteroids

Free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) is an effective method to treat corticosteroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Some patients continued to receive maintenance doses of corticosteroids to treat the primary disease postoperatively. This study was performed to evaluate outcomes of FVFG for corticosteroid-induced ONFH in patients who continued to receive corticosteroids postoperatively. The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of 44 patients (78 hips) who had received corticosteroid treatment for their primary disease after FVFG. They were followed up for at least 2 years (mean, 5.6 years). Demographic details, Harris Hip scores, the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), and radiographic data were collected and analyzed. The mean Harris Hip score for all hips was 70.9±9.9 points before surgery and increased to 84±12.1 points at the latest follow-up. There were also significant increases (P<.05) in physical component summary score and mental component summary score. According to the latest radiographic evaluation, 49 hips (62.8%) appeared improved, 10 hips (12.8%) appeared unchanged, and only 19 hips (24.4%) appeared worse. Seven hips (9%) underwent total hip arthroplasty during the follow-up period. Therefore, the results showed that FVFG was a viable method of treating corticosteroid-induced ONFH in patients who receive maintenance doses of corticosteroids postoperatively.

The effect of postoperative corticosteroid administration on free vascularized fibular grafting for treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head

Free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) has been reported to be an effective method of treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). This study evaluated whether postoperative maintenance doses of corticosteroids had an adverse effect on FVFG outcomes in patients with corticosteroid-induced ONFH. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 39 patients (67 hips) who had received maintenance doses of corticosteroids following FVFG. This group was matched to a group of patients who had not received corticosteroids treatment after operation. The mean follow-up duration was 5.4 years for the postoperative corticosteroid administration group (PCA group) and 5.0 years for the control group. At the latest follow-up, the average increase in Harris hip score was 11.1 ± 8.7 points for all hips in the PCA group and 12.6 ± 7.4 points for all hips in the control group (P > 0.05). In the PCA group, through radiographic evaluation, 49 hips were improved, 10 hips appeared unchanged, and 8 hips appeared worse. In the control group, 47 hips were improved, 13 hips appeared unchanged, and 7 hips appeared worse. The results suggested that postoperative maintenance doses of corticosteroids do not have an adverse effect on FVFG outcomes in patients with corticosteroid-induced ONFH.

Modified surgical techniques of free vascularized fibular grafting for treatment of the osteonecrosis of femoral head: results from a series of 407 cases

The goal for treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is to relieve pain, preserve the contour of the femoral head, and delay the need for total hip arthroplasty. The free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) has been shown to support the subchondral architecture as well as restore local circulation for the necrotic femoral head in treatment of ONFH. This report aimed to present the clinical results of the use of a modified surgical technique of FVFG for treatment of ONFH. Four hundred and seven patients with 578 hips of ONFH were included. The patients' average age was 36.7 years old (ranging 19-55 years old). The disease was staged from II to V based on the Steinberg classification system. By the modified procedure, the vascularized fibular graft was harvested via a lateral incision with fibular osteotomy prior to the exposure of the vascular pedicle, and the removal of necrotic tissue and inset of graft were performed through an anterior approach. The operative time averaged 90 min for unilateral ONFH (ranging 75-110 min) and 190 min for simultaneous treatment of bilateral ONFH (ranging 160-230 min). The average length of follow-up was 5.0 years (ranging 3-10 years). The complications included one infection in one case, temporary loss of sensation of the thigh in eleven cases, and restricted motion of the great toe in nine cases. The Harris hip score of patients improved from 65.0 to 86.9 on average. Radiographic evaluation showed no changes in 331 hips (57.3%), improvement in 195 hips (33.7%) and necrosis progression in 52 hips (9.0%). Twenty-three hips (4.0%) in 20 patients had total hip arthroplasty during the period. These results show that the modified technique of the use of FVFG for treatment of ONFH yields similar postoperative results in comparison to the traditional method.

Treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head by using the greater trochanteric bone flap with double vascular pedicles

The use of the bone flap transfer has been reported to be successful in treatment of patients with early to medium stage (Ficat and Arlet stage I-III) osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). We examined the vascular anatomy and blood supply of the greater trochanter area and evaluated the feasibility of revascularization of the femoral head by using the bone flap pedicled with transverse and gluteus medius branches of the lateral circumflex femoral artery. Based on the anatomy study, from January 2002 to May 2004, 32 ONFH patients were treated with the greater trochanteric bone flap pedicled with double blood vessels. Fifteen femoral heads were Ficat and Arlet stage II and 17 were stage III. The mean follow-up was 99.5 months. Two of the 32 patients required a total hip replacement due to severe hip pain after surgery. The overall Harris hip score improved from a mean of 55.2 points to 85 points. Our data suggest the procedure is relatively easy to perform, less donor-site morbidity and useful for young patients with stages II to III disease with or without mild collapse of the femoral head.

Vascularized fibular grafts for avascular necrosis after slipped capital femoral epiphysis: is hip preservation possible?

BACKGROUND

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a potential complication in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), radiographically occurring in 3-60%. This may lead to early hip fusion or hip arthroplasty. Free vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG) may provide a reasonable means to preserve the femoral head.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We asked: (1) What percentage of patients with AVN after SCFE treated with FVFG underwent subsequent THA or hip fusion and what was the lifespan of the FVFG? (2) Did the graft survival rate of FVFG for AVN after SCFE coincide with historically reported rates of FVFG for idiopathic AVN? And (3) did hip function improve after FVFG?

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 52 patients who underwent FVFG for SCFE. We calculated the longevity of the graft and factors associated with graft survival. Harris hip scores (HHS) were recorded pre- and postoperatively. Minimum followup was 1 month (median, 19 months; range, 1-136 months).

RESULTS

Five of the 52 patients (10%) underwent conversion to THA (four) or hip fusion (one). Mean age was greater in these patients than in those not requiring further procedures: 16 versus 13 years. Median graft survival time before arthroplasty/fusion was 12 years (range, 2-16 years) while it is currently 8 years (range, 2-16 years) in patients not undergoing subsequent procedures. HHSs improved 35 points on average (38 points preoperatively to 73 points postoperatively).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing FVFG for AVN secondary to SCFE, 90% have maintained their native hips for 8 years with improved hip function, similar to other published reports of FVFG. Further followup is needed of patients currently retaining their FVFGs as to eventual conversion to THA or fusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.