Commercial Claims Data Sources: PearlDiver and Individual Payer Databases

The Impact of Anxiety and Depression on Postoperative Pain Management and Emergency Room Visits in Pediatric Patients With Surgically Treated Lower Extremity Fractures: A Propensity-matched Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression (AD) are prevalent comorbidities in pediatric patients and may influence postoperative outcomes. The impact of AD on postoperative pain medication use and emergency room (ER) visits in children with surgically treated lower extremity fractures has not been well-documented. This study aimed to evaluate the association between AD and outpatient postoperative pain medication requirements as well as ER visits in this population.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records from 2000 to 2023 in a large national database of health care organizations across the United States. Pediatric patients (age below 18) with surgically treated lower extremity fractures were included. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: those with AD and those without (No-AD). Patients were further dichotomized into 2 groups based on fracture location: femur (femur) versus tibia or ankle (tibia/ankle). Outcomes of interest included the use of intravenous (IV) opiates within 3 days postoperatively, the number of outpatient oral (PO) opiate prescriptions, and the proportion of patients with at least one ER visit within 1 year postsurgery. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 25,658 patients with either femur or tibia/ankle fractures were included. After matching, 735 patients were included in the AD femur cohort, and 945 in the AD tibia/ankle cohort. Each cohort was matched 1:1 with their control counterparts. In the femur fracture cohort, 49.80% of AD patients and 46.53% of No-AD patients required IV opiates within the first 3 days after surgery (HR, 1.09; P=0.21). Outpatient PO opiate use was significantly higher in AD patients (55.78% vs. 38.50%, HR, 1.64; P<0.001). In addition, AD patients had a higher proportion of ER visits (20.3% vs. 11.7%, HR, 1.68; P<0.001). In the tibia/ankle fracture cohort, 55.2% of AD patients and 48.3% of No-AD patients required IV opiates within the first 3 days (HR, 1.18; P<0.001). Outpatient PO opiate use was also higher in AD patients (46.35% vs. 32.06%, HR, 1.55; P<0.001). ER visits were more frequent in AD patients (21.26% vs. 9.63%, HR, 2.08; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric patients with AD undergoing surgery for lower extremity fractures have increased postoperative pain medication requirements and higher rates of ER visits compared with those without AD. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, such as the use of preoperative counseling or multimodal pain regimens, to manage postoperative pain and reduce ER visits in this vulnerable population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic level III.

A Nationwide Analysis of Complications, Reoperations, and Cost of Wide-Awake Flexor Tendon Repairs

BACKGROUND

Some articles suggest that wide-awake flexor tendon repair (FTR) may reduce rates of postoperative tendon gapping and rupture because of improved intraoperative testing of the repair. The current study is a nationwide cohort study comparing FTRs performed wide-awake and with traditional anesthesia.

METHODS

Patients undergoing zone II FTR between 2010 and 2022 were identified in PearlDiver. Exclusion criteria were other tendon repairs, concomitant treatment for vascular injury, fracture, dislocation or amputation, inpatient or office surgery, age younger than 18 years, and less than 1 year of follow-up. Patients were stratified by anesthesia technique: traditional anesthesia (general anesthesia, monitored anesthesia care, regional blocks) or wide-awake anesthesia. Patients were matched based on age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index score, geographic region, insurance coverage, number of tendon repairs, and presence of concomitant nerve repair. Thirty-day wound complications, emergency department visits and readmissions, and 1-year reoperations were identified. Total reimbursement for surgery was determined.

RESULTS

Each matched cohort included 2563 patients. Wide-awake patients had fewer 30-day emergency department visits (2.7% versus 4.8%). There were no differences in 30-day wound complications or readmissions. There was no difference in 1-year reoperations for rupture or stiffness. Multivariable linear regression identified wide-awake surgery to be significantly associated with lower total reimbursement.

CONCLUSION

Performing digital FTR using wide-awake techniques can reduce costs, but the hypothesis that wide-awake repairs may reduce rates of tendon rupture was not supported by the current study.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, III.

Association between chiropractic spinal manipulation for sciatica and opioid-related adverse events: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Patients receiving chiropractic spinal manipulation (CSM) for spinal pain are less likely to be prescribed opioids, and some evidence suggests that these patients have a lower risk of any type of adverse drug event. We hypothesize that adults receiving CSM for sciatica will have a reduced risk of opioid-related adverse drug events (ORADEs) over a one-year follow-up compared to matched controls not receiving CSM.

METHODS

We searched a United States (US) claims-based data resource (Diamond Network, TriNetX, Inc.) of more than 216 million patients, yielding data ranging from 2009 to 2024. We included patients aged ≥18 years with sciatica, excluding those post-spine surgery, prior anesthesia, serious pathology, high risk of ORADEs, and an ORADE ≤ 1-year prior. Patients were divided into two cohorts: (1) CSM and (2) usual medical care. We used propensity score matching to control for confounding variables associated with ORADEs. Comparative outcomes were analyzed by calculating risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the incidence of ORADEs and oral opioid prescription between cohorts.

RESULTS

372,471 patients per cohort remained after matching. The incidence of ORADEs over 1-year follow-up was less in the CSM cohort compared to the usual medical care cohort (CSM: 0.09%; usual medical care: 0.30%), yielding an RR of 0.29 (95% CI: 0.25-0.32; P < .00001). CSM patients had a lower risk of receiving an oral opioid prescription (RR of 0.68 [95% CI: 0.68-0.69; P < .00001]).

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that adults with sciatica who initially received CSM had a lower risk of an ORADE compared to matched controls not initially receiving CSM, likely explained by a lower probability of opioid prescription. These findings corroborate existing practice guidelines which recommend adding CSM to the management of sciatica when appropriately indicated.

Combined Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction and Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy Has a Lower Risk of Recurrent Instability Requiring Revision Stabilization at 2 Years Than Either Procedure Alone

Purpose

To use a large nationwide administrative database to directly compare usage, complications, and need for revision stabilization surgery after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPLFR), tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO), and combined MPFLR and TTO (MPFLRTTO).

Methods

The PearlDiver Mariner database was queried for all reported cases of MPLFR, TTO, and combined MPFLRTTO performed between 2010 and 2020 using Current Procedural Terminology codes. Subsets from those cohorts with laterality-specific International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, codes for patellar instability were used to evaluate 2-year incidence of infection, stiffness, fracture, and revision stabilization with MPFLR and/or TTO. Multiple linear regression and χ2 analysis were used to analyze incidence trends and to compare complication rates.

Results

A total of 70,070 patients were identified. MPFLR was found to be the most common procedure (73.1%), followed by TTO (19.2%) and then MPFLRTTO (7.6%). MPLFR was observed to have the lowest overall complication rate (5.4%), whereas both TTO (7.5%) and MPFLRTTO (7.1%) had greater complication rates (P < .001). MPFLR had the greatest rate of revision stabilization surgery at 3.7% compared with TTO at 2.7% and MPFLRTTO, which carried the lowest risk for revision at 2.4% (P < .001).

Conclusions

Isolated MPFLR is the most common modality used for patellar instability, with increasing prevalence and the lowest 2-year complication rate. Isolated TTO was unchanged in its use and had the greatest overall complication rate. Combined MPFLRTTO increased the overall complication rate but had a lower 2-year rate of recurrent instability requiring revision than MPFLR alone.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Anti-osteoporotic treatment reduces risk of revision following total shoulder arthroplasty in patients with osteoporosis

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis, a prevalent bone density disorder, introduces a complex dynamic in the context of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). However, despite the well-established association between osteoporosis and an elevated risk of revision, the existing literature lacks comprehensive insights into the impact of anti-osteoporotic therapy on surgical outcomes in the setting of TSA. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether anti-osteoporotic therapy correlates with improved revision outcomes following TSA.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed using a national all payer's claims database. Patients who underwent TSA were identified using Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases procedure codes. Patients with a preoperative diagnosis of osteoporosis were included and stratified into 2 groups: (1) patients with osteoporosis who underwent anti-osteoporotic therapy within 6 months prior to surgery (anti-OP cohort) and (2) patients with osteoporosis who never received anti-osteoporotic treatment (no anti-OP cohort). Primary outcomes included the incidence of 2-year all-cause revision, periprosthetic fracture, periprosthetic joint infection, and mechanical loosening. Univariate and multivariable regression analysis was conducted to compare outcomes between the 2 cohorts.

RESULTS

In total, 40,532 osteoporotic patients were included in this study, with 11,577 (28.5%) having undergone anti-osteoporotic treatment. Patients who did not receive anti-osteoporotic treatment had significantly higher odds of 2-year all-cause revision (odds ratio: 1.31; P < .001) and mechanical loosening (odds ratio: 1.25; P < .001) following TSA when compared to those treated for osteoporosis.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrates a significant association between anti-osteoporotic therapy and reduced rates of 2-year revision following TSA. Orthopedic surgeons should recognize the heightened risk of early implant failure in the absence of osteoporosis therapy. This underscores the imperative for increased screening initiatives given the high prevalence of undiagnosed or untreated osteoporosis in the TSA population. These results also emphasize the importance of integrating osteoporosis management strategies into the broader context of surgical decision-making, thereby contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and quality of care in shoulder surgery.

Favorable Outcomes Following Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction and Repair, Though Repair Associated with Increased Risk of Revision Surgery

PURPOSE

To assess the risk of revision surgery following repair versus reconstruction of the medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow in a national sample of patients in the United States.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of young patients (≤35 years old) who underwent primary UCL reconstruction or repair for an isolated medial UCL injury of the elbow from October 2015 through October 2022 in a large national database (PearlDiver). Patient demographic data, comorbidities, surgical details, and concomitant ulnar nerve procedures were collected. Time-to-event analyses were used to assess the risk of revision UCL surgery between groups. Two-year complication rates, including ulnar neuropathy, were also assessed.

RESULTS

In total, 1,820 patients (69.9% reconstruction, 30.1% repair) with an average follow-up of 2.9 years met inclusion criteria. The estimated 2-year revision-free survival (95% confidence interval) was 99.5% (99.1%-99.9%) for UCL reconstruction compared to 97.9% (96.4%-99.3%) for UCL repair (unadjusted log-rank P = .032). UCL repair remained associated with an increased risk of revision UCL surgery after adjusting for confounding variables (hazard ratio, 2.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-8.09; P = .037). Complication rates were similar between reconstruction and repair, including the incidence of ulnar neuropathy (13.8% vs 14.5%, P = .78).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we found that UCL repair was associated with a significantly higher risk of revision UCL surgery than UCL reconstruction in a national sample. Importantly, however, overall failure rates were low, and complication rates were similar between procedures. These findings support the overall favorable outcomes of UCL repair while suggesting it may not necessarily be the optimal treatment for all patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Lower extremity amputation rates in patients with chronic kidney disease: A database study comparing patients with and without diabetes mellitus

Lower extremity amputation (LEA) is one of the most feared consequences of diabetes mellitus (DM). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of DM on LEA rates in patients at various stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). A commercially available de-identified database was searched for patients undergoing LEA and for CKD patients, from 2010 to 2023. Patients with DM and patients without DM who were followed for at least 5 years were included. LEA rates were then compared for patients at all 5 CKD stages in patients with and without diabetes. Rates of all LEA were found to be significantly higher at all CKD stages for patients with diabetes (overall, minor and major LEA). Compared to patients without DM who have CKD stage 5 (end stage renal disease), patients with DM and CKD stage 5 have a 30 fold increased likelihood of undergoing overall LEA [OR 30.2 (24.48-37.19), p < 0.001], 29 fold increased likelihood of undergoing minor LEA [28.9i (22.91-36.35), p < 0.001] and 40 times fold increased likelihood of undergoing major LEA [40.1 (26.59-60.42), p < 0.001]. For all stages of CKD, independent of diabetes status, minor LEA were performed with greater frequency than major LEA. In patients with DM, LEA rates significantly increased with CKD progression between stages 2-5 with a substantial jump between stages 4 and 5 [OR 2.6 (CI 2.49-2.74), p < 0.001]. However, CKD progression between stages 1 and 2 was not significantly associated with increased LEA rates (OR 1.1 (CI 0.92-1.21), p = 0.24) in patients with diabetes. Patients with comorbid diabetes have elevated risk for LEA at all stages of CKD compared to those without diabetes.

Trends and impact of comorbidities on Guyon's Canal release for the treatment of Guyon's Canal syndrome: A decade long nationwide analysis

Background

Guyon's Canal Syndrome (GCS) is a rare nerve entrapment condition with limited studies exploring the trends of GCS patients undergoing Guyon's Canal release. The aim of this study is to examine the trends associated with GCS: (1) Guyon's Canal release procedures performed; (2) surgically relevant comorbidities; (3) 90-day readmissions; and (4) same-day and 90-day reimbursement.

Methods

A retrospective query was performed on the PearlDiver Mariner Database from 2010 to 2020 by CPT code 64719 to identify patients who underwent Guyon's Canal release. A total of 33,3764 patients were identified. Linear regression models were used to analyze trends in procedures performed, comorbidities, readmission, and reimbursement over this period. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Between 2010 and 2020, there was an overall significant decreasing trend in the number of Guyon's Canal release procedures performed (RC, -127.50; p < 0.001). There was an increase in number of GCS patients that had undergone Guyon's Canal release who drink alcohol (RC, 0.33; p < 0.001), are obese (RC, 0.81; p < 0.001), and use tobacco (RC, 0.56; p < 0.004), and decrease number of GCS patients with a history of diabetes (RC, -0.82; p < 0.001), hypothyroidism (RC, -0.56; p < 0.001), PVD (RC, -0.71; p < 0.001), and RA (RC, -0.33; p < 0.001). We also found an overall increasing trend in 90-day readmissions (RC, 0.09; p = 0.019) and increased same-day (RC, 68.09; p < 0.001) and 90-day average reimbursement (RC, 257.15; p < 0.001) from 2010 to 2020.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated a decreasing trend in Guyon's Canal release performed in GCS patients but increasing cost of care implicated by the increased 90-day readmissions and same day and 90-day reimbursement. This may be attributed to the comorbidities present in GCS patients undergoing Guyon's Canal release. Therefore, it is imperative when consulting GCS patients with surgically relevant comorbidities to weigh the risk and benefits of the procedure.

A Higher Area Deprivation Index Is Associated With Increased Medical Complications and Emergency Department Utilizations After Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) is a weighted index comprised of 17 census-based markers of material deprivation and poverty. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) in areas of high ADI (greater disadvantage) were associated with differences in 90 days: 1) medical complications; 2) emergency department (ED) utilizations; and 3) readmissions.

METHODS

A nationwide database was queried for primary THA patients from 2010 to 2020. The ADI is reported on a scale of 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating greater disadvantage. Patients undergoing primary THA in regions associated with high ADI (90%+) were compared to those of lower ADI (0 to 89%). A total of 138,670 patients were evenly matched between the two cohorts following 1:1 propensity score matching by age, sex, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index. Primary endpoints were 90-day medical complications, ED utilizations, and readmissions. Multivariable logistic regression models calculated the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). P values less than 0.01 were statistically significant.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing THA from high ADI had significantly higher rates and odds of developing any medical complications (13.0 versus 11.9%; OR: 1.09, P < 0.0001), including acute kidney injuries (1.8 versus 1.5%; OR: 1.20, P < 0.0001), myocardial infarctions (0.35 versus 0.24%; OR: 1.45, P = 0.0003), and surgical site infections (0.94 versus 0.76%; OR: 1.23, P = 0.0004). High-ADI patients had significantly higher rates and odds of ED visits within 90 days (3.94 versus 3.67%; OR: 1.08, P = 0.008). There was no significant difference in readmissions (5.44 versus 5.69%; OR: 0.95, P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Socioeconomically disadvantaged patients have increased odds of 90-days medical complications and ED utilizations, despite comparable 90-day readmission rates. Measures of neighborhood disadvantage may be valuable metrics to inform health care policy and improve postdischarge care.

Effect of cannabis use history on postoperative opioid utilization in lumbar fusion patients: an American retrospective study

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE

To examine the effect of cannabis use history on postoperative opioid utilization in patients undergoing one- to three-level lumbar fusion for degenerative spine disease.

OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

Strategies to minimize dosing and chronic opioid use are needed for spine surgery given their widespread prescription for postsurgical pain management.

METHODS

In this database study, medical coding was used to identify patients who had undergone one- to three-level lumbar fusions between 2012 and 2021. Propensity score matching was used to create two equal cohorts with respect to cannabis use history. Opioid utilization rates (morphine milligram equivalents [MME]/day) and overuse rates at 6 months post-index procedure were assessed. All pvalues <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Following examination of 153,500 patient records, 1,216 patients were matched into cannabis user and non-cannabis user cohorts. Cannabis users had lower rates of opioid utilization compared to non-cannabis users as early as 2 months after fusion (47.7% vs. 41.1%, p <0.05), a relationship which persisted at 6 months (46.2% vs. 37.7%, p <0.01). Additionally, cannabis users had lower rates of high-dose opioid utilization (≥100 MME per day) during the initial 14-30 days following surgery (6.91% vs. 3.79%, p <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of cannabis use were less likely to be using opioids as early as 2 months postoperatively and had lower rates of high-dose opioid utilization in the immediate postoperative period. Physicians operating on these patients should consider their cannabis use patterns to provide appropriate titration of pain medication over time.

Lumbar Fusions in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: A Propensity-Matched Analysis of Postoperative Complications

OBJECTIVE

The present study compares postoperative outcomes between patients with and without sickle cell disease (SCD) undergoing 1-to 3-level lumbar spinal fusion for degenerative pathologies.

METHODS

Patients who underwent 1-to 3-level lumbar spinal fusion for degenerative pathologies from 2010 to 2021 were identified using the PearlDiver database. Patients were separated into 1) SCD and 2) non-SCD groups and were propensity-matched 1:1 for age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index, surgical approach, and various comorbidities. Complications were separately analyzed by single- and multilevel procedures using chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U testing.

RESULTS

Propensity-score matching identified 1934 SCD and non-SCD patients who underwent single-level fusion and 2094 SCD and non-SCD patients who underwent multilevel fusion. Across single-level fusions, those with SCD had a significantly higher risk of neurovascular compromise (P < 0.001), venous thromboembolism (P = 0.004), pneumonia (P = 0.032), urinary tract infections (P = 0.001), and greater postoperative opioid usage out to 12 months (P = 0.018). Across multilevel fusions, SCD carried higher risk for neurovascular compromise (P < 0.001), pneumonia (P = 0.010), and urinary tract infections (P < 0.001). All SCD patients had significantly higher opioid use at 1 month (P = 0.001) and at 6 months (P = 0.009) postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with SCD undergoing lumbar spinal fusion demonstrate higher risks for coagulopathic, ischemic, and infectious-related complications, as well as long-term postoperative opioid use. Awareness of the unique complication profile in SCD patients may help guide surgeons in refining perioperative management strategies to optimize outcomes in patients with SCD.

Impact of Dementia on Outcomes Following Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture: A National Database Study

BACKGROUND

Dementia poses an elevated risk of femoral neck fracture (FNF) in the elderly, often leading to the need for hemiarthroplasty. Yet, the outcomes of hemiarthroplasty in patients who have dementia remain uncertain. The purpose of this study was to assess whether dementia serves as a potential risk factor for outcomes following hemiarthroplasty.

METHODS

Dementia patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for FNF with at least 1 year of follow-up were identified using a national insurance database. A 1:1 matched control cohort of patients who do not have dementia was created for comparison. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the rates of complications between the two cohorts. A total of 89,072 patients, of whom half have dementia and half do not, undergoing hemiarthroplasty for FNF were identified.

RESULTS

Aside from increased risks of medical complications (P < 0.01), including pneumonia, cerebrovascular accident, acute kidney injury, urinary tract infection, and sepsis, within 90 days, dementia patients also demonstrated higher rates of surgical complications within 1 year, such as dislocation (odds ratio (OR) 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.71 to 2.04), periprosthetic fractures (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.45), and revision (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.36). On the other hand, dementia patients displayed slightly reduced rates of 90-day deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. However, no significant increase was found in transfusion, myocardial infarction, wound complications, periprosthetic joint infection, or aseptic loosening between the two cohorts. Additionally, patients who have dementia demonstrated a higher likelihood of 90-day emergency department visits, whereas rates of 90-day hospital readmission remained similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Although dementia patients do not exhibit an elevated risk of periprosthetic joint infection, or aseptic loosening, they are more prone to experiencing higher risks of prosthetic dislocation, periprosthetic fracture, and revision. Furthermore, specific medical complications tend to be more prevalent among individuals who have dementia.

Clostridium difficile Infection Prior to Total Hip Arthroplasty Independently Increases the Risk of Periprosthetic Joint Infection

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with major morbidity. There may be a link between the gut microbiome and an individual's overall immune system. A Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection portends poor gut microbiome health and has been previously associated with increased 90-day complication rates in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a previous history of C. difficile infection within 2 years of undergoing THA on PJI within 2 years postoperatively.

METHODS

Patients undergoing THA from 2010 to 2021 were identified in a patient claims database (n = 770,075). Patients who had active records 2 years before and after THA as well as a history of C. difficile infection within 2 years prior to THA (n = 1,836) were included and propensity matched to a control group using age, sex, and Elixhauser comorbidity index. The primary outcome was the 2-year incidence of postoperative PJI. The exposed C. difficile infection cohort was stratified into 4 groups based on the time proximity of the C. difficile infection. Chi-square tests and logistic regressions were used to compare the groups.

RESULTS

A C. difficile infection anytime within 2 years prior to total hip arthroplasty was independently associated with higher odds of PJI (OR [odds ratio]: 1.49 [95% CI (confidence interval) 1.09 to 2.02, P = .014]). Proximity of C. difficile infection to arthroplasty was associated with increased risk of PJI (infection 0 to 3 months before THA: OR 2.01 [95% CI 1.23 to 3.20], infection 3 to 6 months before THA: OR 1.84 [95% CI 1.06 to 3.04], infection 6 to 12 months before THA: OR 1.10 [95% CI 0.65 to 1.77], infection 1 to 2 years before THA: OR 1.40 [95% CI 0.94 to 2.06]).

CONCLUSIONS

A C. difficile infection prior to THA is an independent risk factor for PJI. Proximity of C. difficile infection is associated with increased risk of PJI. Future investigations should evaluate how to adequately optimize patients prior to THA and pursue strategies to determine appropriate timing for proceeding with THA.

The association between preoperative epidural steroid injections and postoperative cervical and lumbar surgical site infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Is there a statistically significant association between preoperative epidural steroid injections (ESI) and postoperative cervical and lumbar spinal surgery infections (SSI)?

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was completed of patients 18 years or older who underwent elective cervical or lumbar spinal surgery. Those who underwent surgery with preoperative ESI were compared to those without. We assessed for differences in postoperative SSI incidence. Electronic literature databases were searched through October 2022. Peer-reviewed publications that included raw data regarding epidural exposure and non-exposure were included. Case reports, case series, abstracts, editorials, or publications that did not include raw data were excluded. Odd's ratios (OR) were calculated from the raw data collected. Meta-analysis was done using RevMan v5 with a fixed effects model.

Results

We identified 16 articles for inclusion. When not controlling for the type of surgery and time from ESI to surgery, there was a statistically significant OR between preoperative ESI and postoperative SSI. The association persisted when the ESI was performed within 30 days or 31-90 days of the surgery. No association was discovered when evaluating only cervical spine surgeries. The evidence is assigned a "moderate" GRADE rating.

Conclusions

Our analysis shows a small, time-dependent, statistically significant association between preoperative ESI and postoperative lumbar SSI may exist. However, the OR produced, while statistically significant, are close enough to 1.0 that clinically, the effect size is "small." The number needed to treat for an ESI in the appropriate clinical setting is, at worst, 3. The number needed to harm, meaning the number of patients who undergo an ESI at any time before their spine surgery and then develop a SSI, is 111 patients. Ultimately, the surgical sparing potential from an ESI outweighs the SSI risk based on our findings.

The Association Between Oral Bone Mineral Density-Reducing Medications and the Risk of 2-Year Implant-Related Complications Following Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Certain medications interfere with the bone remodeling process and may potentially increase the risk of complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). As patients undergoing TKA may be taking these bone mineral density (BMD)-reducing medications, it is unclear as to whether and which medications impact TKA outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to observe the impact of various BMD-reducing medications on 2-year implant-related complications following TKA.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing primary TKA was conducted using a national administrative claims database. Patients were identified if they were taking any known BMD-reducing medication and were compared to control patients. To control for confounders associated with taking multiple agents, multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted for each 2-year outcome (all-cause revision, loosening-indicated revision, and periprosthetic fracture--indicated revision), with the output recorded as odds ratios (ORs).

RESULTS

In our study, 502,927 of 1,276,209 TKA patients (39.4%) were taking at least one BMD-reducing medication perioperatively. On multivariable analysis, medications associated with a higher likelihood of 2-year all-cause revision included first- and second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) (OR: 1.42 and 1.26, respectively), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (OR: 1.14), glucocorticoids (1.13), and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (OR: 1.23) (P < .05 for all). Medications associated with a higher likelihood of 2-year periprosthetic fracture included SGAs (OR: 1.51), SSRIs (OR: 1.27), aromatase inhibitors (OR: 1.29), and PPIs (OR: 1.42) (P < .05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Of the drug classes observed, the utilization of perioperative PPIs, SSRIs, glucocorticoids, first-generation antipsychotics, and SGAs was associated with the highest odds of all-cause revision. Our findings suggest a relationship between these medications and BMD-related complications; however, further studies should seek to determine the causality of these relationships.

No Increased Risk of All-cause Revision up to 10 Years in Patients Who Underwent Bariatric Surgery Before Single-level Lumbar Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess whether prior bariatric surgery (BS) is associated with higher 10-year surgical complication and revision rates in lumbar spine fusion compared with the general population and morbidly obese patients.

BACKGROUND

Obesity accelerates degenerative spine processes, often necessitating lumbar fusion for functional improvement. BS is explored for weight loss in lumbar spine cases, but its impact on fusion outcomes remains unclear. Existing literature on BS before lumbar fusion yields conflicting results, with a limited investigation into long-term spine complications.

METHODS

Utilizing the PearlDiver database, we examined patients undergoing elective primary single-level lumbar fusion, categorizing them by prior BS. Propensity score matching created cohorts from (1) the general population without BS history and (2) morbidly obese patients without BS history. Using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard modeling, we compared 10-year cumulative incidence rates and hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause revision and specific revision indications.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent BS exhibited a higher cumulative incidence and risk of decompressive laminectomy and irrigation & debridement (I&D) within 10 years postlumbar fusion compared with matched controls from the general population [decompressive laminectomy: HR = 1.32; I&D: HR = 1.35]. Compared with matched controls from a morbidly obese population, patients who underwent BS were associated with lower rates of adjacent segment disease (HR = 0.31) and I&D (HR = 0.64). However, the risk of all-cause revision within 10 years did not increase for patients who underwent BS compared with matched or unmatched controls from the general population or morbidly obese patients (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Prior BS did not elevate the 10-year all-cause revision risk in lumbar fusion compared with the general population or morbidly obese patients. However, patients who underwent BS were associated with a lower 10-year risk of I&D when compared with morbidly obese patients without BS. Our study indicates comparable long-term surgical complication rates between patients who underwent BS and these control groups, with an associated reduction in risk of infectious complications when compared with morbidly obese patients. Although BS may address medical comorbidities, its impact on long-term lumbar fusion revision outcomes is limited.

What Is a Surgical Site Infection After Carpal Tunnel Release?

PURPOSE

Considerable variation exists in the literature on published rates of surgical site infection (SSI) after carpal tunnel release, ranging over 20-fold, from 0.28% to 6.4%. The reason for this variability is unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on 748 open carpal tunnel releases performed under wide-awake local anesthetic no tourniquet in an in-office procedure room. The following three different definitions of infection were used for analysis: definition A: prescription of an oral antibiotic; Definition B: SSI definition by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Definition C: infection that required reoperation.

RESULTS

Infection rate by definition A was 8.9% (67/748), by definition B was 2.3% (17/748), and by definition C was 0.4% (3/748), resulting in a 22-fold range.

CONCLUSIONS

The infection rate after carpal tunnel release is heavily influenced by the definition of SSI. The definition of SSI needs to be considered when making comparisons, either in research or quality assurance/quality improvement applications.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

When analyzing SSI rates, the exact definition of infection must be ascertained to accurately compare an individual's practice or institutional data to the literature.

Depressive Disorder and Trimalleolar Fractures: An Analysis of Outcomes and Costs

INTRODUCTION

Studies have suggested a strong association between depression and poor outcomes following various orthopaedic surgeries. However, depression's impact on complications following open reduction/internal fixation (ORIF) of trimalleolar fractures has not been elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether depression is associated with higher rates of readmissions and medical complications following ORIF of trimalleolar fractures.

METHODS

A database query from January, 2020, through March, 2021, identifying adults who underwent trimalleolar ORIF generated 50 154 patients. Those with depression were matched 1:1 to controls without depression by age, sex, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, anxiety, and other prominent comorbidities. Primary endpoints compared 90-day all-cause readmissions and medical complications. Odds ratios (ORs) of the effect of depression on readmissions and medical complications were calculated.

RESULTS

Patients with depression who underwent ORIF of trimalleolar fractures had significantly higher odds of being readmitted within 90 days of the initial procedure (OR: 1.37; P < .0001). Ninety-day odds of developing medical complications were significantly higher (OR: 4.61; P < .0001) in patients with depression compared with patients within the control group.

CONCLUSION

Patients with depression undergoing trimalleolar ORIF face an increased risk of readmission and multiple postoperative complications. Orthopaedic surgeons should factor depression into their preoperative evaluation, given the already high burden of complications following ORIF of trimalleolar fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III: Retrospective cohort study.

Current Trends in the Surgical Treatment of Fibular Fractures: A National Database Study of Intramedullary vs. Plate Fixation Practice Patterns, Complications, and Cost

Existing primary evidence comparing fibular intramedullary fixation (IMF) with traditional plate fixation (PF) for the treatment of distal fibular fractures remains limited by modest sample sizes. Using a large national database, this study aims to compare use rates, fracture patterns, patient characteristics, time to surgery, complication rates, and cost between fibular IMF and PF within the United States. Adults treated with fibular IMF or PF between October 2015 and October 2021 were identified within the PearlDiver Database. The ratio of IMF-treated to PF-treated patients was tracked temporally to compare use rates. Fracture patterns were determined using fracture diagnoses within one-month preceding surgery. Further comparisons of IMF- and PF-treated groups only included patients with at least 12 months of follow-up, and patients with upper tibia or tibia shaft fractures were excluded. An analysis of cohorts matched at a 1 : 4 (IMF: PF) ratio to control for risk factors was performed to compare time to surgery, complication rates (infection, nonunion, malunion, revision, hardware removal, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis), and cost. 39329 patients (2294 IMF and 37035 PF) were identified. IMF use trended upwards relative to PF use over time. Tibia and fibula shaft fractures were the most common injuries in IMF patients versus bimalleolar and trimalleolar fractures in PF patients. A higher proportion of IMF patients had open fractures. IMF patients were younger, with higher mean ECI, fewer female patients, and higher rates of CKD. Percutaneous approaches were more common among IMF patients. There were no significant differences in time to surgery or complication rates. IMF was less costly. The popularity of IMF trended upwards across the study period. IMF was used more commonly in injuries involving higher energy trauma and soft tissue disruption. Overall, IMF patients were younger with more comorbidities. When used in similar populations, IMF appears to be a cost-effective alternative to PF.

Big Data Research on Severe Asthma

The continuously increasing prevalence of severe asthma has imposed an increasing burden worldwide. Despite the emergence of novel therapeutic agents, management of severe asthma remains challenging. Insights garnered from big data may be helpful in the effort to determine the complex nature of severe asthma. In the field of asthma research, a vast amount of big data from various sources, including electronic health records, national claims data, and international cohorts, is now available. However, understanding of the strengths and limitations is required for proper utilization of specific datasets. Use of big data, along with advancements in artificial intelligence techniques, could potentially facilitate the practice of precision medicine in management of severe asthma.

Increased Rate of Complications Following Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients Who Have Marfan Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of Marfan syndrome (MFS) patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are poorly documented in the literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate MFS as a potential risk factor for complications after TKA.

METHODS

Using a national private payer insurance database from 2010 to 2022, MFS patients undergoing primary TKA were identified and compared to 10:1 matched controls based on age, sex, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and a comorbidity index. A total of 4,092 patients undergoing primary TKA were analyzed, of which 372 had MFS. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. 90-day emergency department-visits and inpatient readmissions were also documented.

RESULTS

Compared to the matched controls, patients who have MFS displayed elevated rates of surgical complications, including prosthetic instability (1-year, odds ratio (OR) 3.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.58 to 8.66]; 2-year, OR 4.39, 95% CI [2.16 to 8.44]), and revision surgery (2 year, OR 1.79, 95% CI [1.05 to 2.91]). Additionally, patients who have MFS demonstrated significant higher rates of medical complications, including aortic dissection (2.15 versus 0%) and transfusion (OR 2.63, 95% CI [1.31 to 4.90]).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who have MFS are at higher risks of postoperative complications after TKA, encompassing both medical and surgical complications. Specifically, patients who have MFS have a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing prosthetic instability and requiring revision surgery. Given these results, it is crucial for orthopedic surgeons and patients alike to consider these risks when determining a course of TKA for patients who have MFS.

Increased Rate of Complications Following Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients Who Have Polymyositis

BACKGROUND

Polymyositis (PM) is a systemic connective tissue disorder that can lead to early onset degenerative joint disease and a need for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Outcomes of TKA in patients who have PM are not well documented in the literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate PM as a risk factor for complications after TKA.

METHODS

Using a national private payer insurance database from 2010 to 2022, PM patients undergoing primary TKA were compared to 10:1 matched controls based on age, sex, and comorbidities. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. 90-day emergency department visits and inpatient readmissions were also documented. A total of 25,039 patients undergoing primary TKA were queried, of which 2,290 had PM.

RESULTS

Compared to the matched controls, patients who had PM demonstrated higher rates of medical and surgical complications, including pulmonary embolism (1.0% versus 0.5%, P = .001), cerebrovascular accident (1.3% versus 0.7%, P = .002), wound complications (3.4% versus 2.1%, P < .001), and periprosthetic joint infection at 1 year (1.7% versus 1.3%, P = .042) and 2 years (2.6% versus 1.9%, P = .006). Patients who had PM displayed elevated 90-day emergency department (14.9% versus 13.3%, P = .032) and hospital readmission rate (7.1% versus 4.8%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who have PM are at higher risks of postoperative medical and surgical complications, including pulmonary embolism, cerebrovascular accident, wound complication, and periprosthetic joint infection. Given these results, it is helpful for orthopedic surgeons and patients to consider these risks when considering TKA for patients who have PM.

Outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneus fractures: A database study comparing patients with and without diabetes

Treatment of calcaneal fractures in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is challenging. The purpose of this study was to compare post-operative outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for calcaneus fracture in patients with complicated DM, uncomplicated DM, and patients without DM. A commercially available de-identified database was queried for all calcaneus fracture diagnoses undergoing ORIF from 2010 to 2021. The patients were separated into three groups for analysis: patients without DM (10,951, 82.6%), uncomplicated DM (1,500, 11.3%) and complicated DM (802, 6.1%). At 1 year, post-operative adverse events were assessed among the three groups. The odds of adverse event(s) for each group were compared between the three groups with and without characteristic matching. In the unmatched cohorts, patients with complicated DM, when compared with patients without DM and patients with uncomplicated DM, had significantly higher rates of all adverse events with exception of DVT. Rates of CNA were significantly higher in patients with complicated DM compared with no DM (OR 107.7 (CI 24.83-467.6) p < 0.0001) and uncomplicated DM (OR 44.26 (CI 3.86-507.93) p = 0.0002). After matching, non-union, AKI, sepsis, surgical site infection, and wound disruption were higher in patients with complicated DM compared with patients without DM. There were no significant differences in the three groups with regard to reoperation, DVT, MI, pneumonia, or below the knee amputation. Patients with DM who underwent ORIF for calcaneus fracture experienced higher rates of post-operative adverse events compared with those patients without DM.

Fixation or Revision for Periprosthetic Fractures: Epidemiology, New Trends, and Projections in the United States

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic fractures can be devastating complications after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The management of periprosthetic fractures is complex, spanning expertise in arthroplasty and trauma. The purpose of this study was to examine and project trends in the operative treatment of periprosthetic fractures in the United States.

METHODS

A large, public and private payer database was queried to capture all International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) diagnosis codes for periprosthetic femoral and tibial fractures. Statistical models were created to assess trends in treatment for periprosthetic fractures and to predict future surgical rates. An alpha value of 0.05 was used to assess significance. A Bonferroni correction was applied where applicable to account for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

In this study, from 2016 to 2021, 121,298 patients underwent surgical treatment for periprosthetic fractures. There was a significant increase in the total number of periprosthetic fractures. The incidence of periprosthetic hip fractures rose by 38% and that for periprosthetic knee fractures rose by 73%. The number of periprosthetic fractures is predicted to rise 212% from 2016 to 2032. There was a relative increase in open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) compared with revision arthroplasty for both periprosthetic hip fractures and periprosthetic knee fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

Periprosthetic fractures are anticipated to impose a substantial health-care burden in the coming decades. Periprosthetic knee fractures are predominantly treated with ORIF rather than revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA), whereas periprosthetic hip fractures are predominantly treated with revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) rather than ORIF. Both periprosthetic knee fractures and periprosthetic hip fractures demonstrated increasing trends in this study. The proportion of periprosthetic hip fractures treated with ORIF relative to revision THA has been increasing.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Effect of Patient Age on Total Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes in Patients Who Have Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Compared to Patients Who Have Hip Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) affects both young and old patients. However, outcomes following total hip arthroplasty (THA) for these patients may vary with age. This study aimed to examine the effect of age on THA outcomes for non-traumatic ONFH patients, an area currently lacking research.

METHODS

Patients who had non-traumatic ONFH undergoing THA with at least 2 years of follow-up were identified using a database and divided into four groups by age. Then, 4 matched control groups of patients who had hip osteoarthritis (OA) were created. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the rates of medical and surgical complications. Additionally, cohorts with a minimum 5-year follow-up were filtered to obtain further data on surgical outcomes. The study analyzed 85,462 non-traumatic ONFH and 80,120 hip OA patients undergoing THA.

RESULTS

Multiple medical complications in ONFH patients increased with age. Periprosthetic fracture within 2 years increased with age, while 90-day wound complications, 2-year periprosthetic joint infections, dislocations, and revisions decreased. The trends for complications continued at the 5-year follow-up. Compared to OA patients, those who had ONFH had higher risks of most complications, but this discrepancy decreased with age.

CONCLUSIONS

In ONFH patients undergoing THA, medical complications generally rise with age, while most surgical complications, including revisions, decrease. It is notable that ONFH patients experienced more complications than those who had OA, but this difference diminished with age.

Rates of Registry Research Have Increased in Podium and Poster Presentations at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons

Background

As state, regional, and national registries have rapidly expanded, the goal of this study is to assess the frequency of registry abstracts accepted for both podium and poster presentations at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons between 2012 and 2022.

Methods

Final programs and poster e-collections were examined over the past 11 years. Two reviewers evaluated each abstract to determine if they utilized large datasets and the location of each registry. Studies were excluded if they used institutional registries. Reviewers also identified the most frequently utilized registries to determine how their use has fluctuated over this time frame.

Results

A total of 3354 abstracts were reviewed and included. Of those, 577 abstracts utilized data obtained from orthopaedic registries (17.2%): 450 of which were poster presentations (16.5% of total poster acceptances), and 127 were podium presentations (20.5% of accepted podiums). The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was the most frequent dataset utilized, with 118 (20.5%) abstracts. Of note, NSQIP's use peaked between 2018 and 2020 and has since slowly trended downward. On the other hand, use of both American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR) and PearlDiver registry have drastically increased since 2019, with only 6 abstracts chosen in 2019 and 28 abstracts in 2022 (10 AJRR [3 podiums] and 18 PearlDiver [6 podiums]). The proportion of registry data has increased, with the registry abstracts peaking in 2022 as 24% of posters and 37% of podium utilized data from large registry data sets (P < .001).

Conclusions

There has been a significant increase in the number of studies utilizing registry data for both podium and poster presentations at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons annual meeting. While NSQIP was the most utilized, its use has steadily declined while AJRR and PearlDiver use have increased over the past 3 years. Individuals should understand the strengths and weaknesses of each registry before making conclusions on study results.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.

Risks Following Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients Who Have Antiphospholipid Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is recognized as a thrombophilic autoimmune condition characterized by a tendency to develop venous thromboembolism. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a prevalent procedure in patients who have advanced knee arthritis. Notably, TKA is unequivocally considered a thrombotic risk factor. However, outcomes of APS patients after TKA are still poorly documented in literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate APS as a potential risk factor for complications after TKA.

METHODS

Using the PearlDiver Mariner database from 2010 to 2022, APS patients undergoing primary TKA were identified and compared to 10:1 matched control based on age, sex, and relevant comorbidities. A total of 7,478 patients undergoing primary TKA were analyzed, of which 683 had APS. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications including revision up to 2 years. Ninety-day emergency department visit and inpatient readmission were also documented.

RESULTS

Within 90 days after TKA, patients who have APS exhibited higher rates of cerebrovascular accident (adjusted odds ratio 2.04, 95% confidence interval 1.12 to 3.57; P = .014) and deep vein thrombosis (adjusted odds ratio 2.87, 95% confidence interval 1.99 to 4.06; P < .001) as compared to matched controls. No difference in surgical or nonthrombotic medical complications was observed between 2 cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

There were significantly higher rates of stroke and deep vein thrombosis in APS patients. Our study did not find statistical differences in other surgical complications or readmissions between the 2 groups. Orthopaedic surgeons should consider appropriate prophylaxis of thrombosis in this patient population undergoing TKA perioperatively.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy and Associated Rates of Trigger Finger, de Quervain Tenosynovitis, and Their Subsequent Management

PURPOSE

Anabolic steroid therapy has been associated with tendon injury, but there is a paucity of evidence associating physiologic testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) with tenosynovitis of the hand, specifically trigger finger and de Quervain tenosynovitis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between TRT and tenosynovitis of the hand.

METHODS

This was a one-to-one exact matched retrospective cohort study using a large nationwide claims database. Records were queried between 2010 and 2019 for adult patients who filled a prescription for TRT for 3 consecutive months. Rates of new onset trigger finger and de Quervain tenosynovitis and subsequent steroid injection or surgery were identified using ICD-9, ICD-10, and Current Procedural Terminology billing codes. Single-variable chi-square analyses and multivariable logistic regression were used to compare rates in the TRT and control cohorts while controlling for potential confounding variables. Both unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) are reported for each comparison.

RESULTS

In the adjusted analysis, patients undergoing TRT were more than twice as likely to develop trigger finger compared to their matched controls. TRT was also associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing de Quervain tenosynovitis. Of the patients diagnosed with either trigger finger or de Quervain tenosynovitis over the 2-year period, patients with prior TRT were roughly twice as likely to undergo steroid injections or surgical release for both trigger finger and de Quervain tenosynovitis compared to the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

TRT is associated with an increased likelihood of both trigger finger and de Quervain tenosynovitis, and an increased likelihood of requiring surgical release for both conditions.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic II.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes before or after Renal Transplant: A Retrospective Large Cohort Analysis

Background

While it is known that patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at an increased risk of complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA), there is a gap in the literature in comparing patients with ESRD to patients who undergo renal transplant (RT) before or after THA. This study is to address this gap by analyzing outcomes of THA in ESRD patients, RT patients, and RT candidates.

Methods

Using the PearlDiver Mariner database, ESRD patients, RT patients, and RT candidates undergoing primary THA were identified and compared. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. Ninety-day emergency department (ED) visits and inpatient readmission were also documented.

Results

A total of 7,868 patients were included: 5,092 had ESRD, 2,520 had RT before THA, and 256 were candidates for RT. Compared to patients with ESRD, RT patients demonstrated lower rates of medical complications such as pneumonia (3.61% vs. 5.99%, p = 0.039) and transfusion (4.60% vs. 7.66%, p < 0.001). Additionally, RT patients displayed decreased rates of surgical complications, including wound complications (2.70% vs. 4.22%, p = 0.001), periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) at 1 year (2.30% vs. 4.81%, p < 0.001) and 2 years (2.58% vs. 5.42%, p < 0.001), and aseptic loosening at 2 years (0.79% vs. 1.43%, p = 0.006). Similarly, when compared to RT candidates, RT patients demonstrated a lower incidence of postoperative complications, including 1-year PJI (2.30% vs. 5.08%, p = 0.013), 2-year PJI (2.58% vs. 5.08%, p = 0.028), 1-year aseptic loosening (0.56% vs. 2.73%, p < 0.001), and 2-year aseptic loosening (0.79% vs. 2.73%, p = 0.005). RT patients also had lower rates of ED visits and hospital readmissions.

Conclusions

Compared to ESRD patients and RT candidates, patients with RT have a significantly lower likelihood of medical complications, PJI, aseptic hardware loosening, ED visits, and hospital readmission. Patients with ESRD on the RT waiting list should delay THA until after RT surgery. For those not eligible for RT, it is vital to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of complications.

Osteoporotic Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty Have a Similar 5-Year Cumulative Incidence Rate of Periprosthetic Fracture Regardless of Cemented Versus Cementless Femoral Stem Fixation

BACKGROUND

In osteoporotic patients, surgeons may utilize cemented femoral fixation to minimize risk of fracture. The purpose of this study was to compare 5-year implant survivability in patients who have osteoporosis who underwent elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) with cementless versus cemented fixation.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients who have osteoporosis undergoing THA with either cemented or cementless femoral fixation was conducted using a national administrative claims database. Of the 18,431 identified THA patients who have osteoporosis, 15,867 (86.1%) underwent cementless fixation. The primary outcome was a comparison of the 5-year cumulative incidences of aseptic revision, mechanical loosening, and periprosthetic fracture (PPF). Kaplan-Meier and Multivariable Cox Proportional Hazard Ratio analyses were used, controlling for femoral fixation method, age, sex, a comorbidity scale, use of osteoporosis medication, and important comorbidity.

RESULTS

There was no difference in aseptic revision (Hazard's Ratio (HR): 1.13; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.79 to 1.62; P value: .500) and PPF (HR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.64 to 1.44; P value: .858) within 5 years of THA between fixation cohorts. However, patients who had cemented fixation were more likely to suffer mechanical loosening with 5 years post-THA (HR: 1.79; 95% CI: 1.17 to 2.71; P-value: .007).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a similar 5-year rate of PPF when comparing patients who underwent cementless versus cemented femoral fixation for elective THA regardless of preoperative diagnosis of osteoporosis. While existing registry data support the use of cemented fixation in elderly patients, a more thorough understanding of the interplay between age, osteoporosis, and implant design is needed to delineate in whom cemented fixation is most warranted for PPF prevention.

The Effect of Human Growth Hormone Treatment on the Development of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A Cohort Analysis With 6 Years of Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a common hip disorder in adolescents that can result in substantial complications, impacting the quality of life. Human Growth Hormone (HGH) administration may elevate the risk of SCFE, though the relationship remains unclear. Clarifying this association could enable better monitoring and earlier diagnosis of SCFE in patients receiving HGH. The aim of the study is to investigate the association between HGH administration and the incidence of SCFE.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the TriNetX research database from January 2003 to December 2022. The study included 2 cohorts: an HGH cohort including 36,791 patients aged below 18 years receiving HGH therapy and a control group consisting of patients who did not receive HGH therapy. A 1:1 propensity score matching technique was employed to ensure comparability between the HGH and no-HGH cohorts. The primary outcome measure was the development of SCFE identified by International Classification of Diseases codes. For comparative analysis, both risk ratios (RR) and hazard ratios were computed to evaluate the association between HGH therapy and the development of SCFE.

RESULTS

The HGH cohort had an increased risk of SCFE compared with the no-HGH cohort (RR: 3.5, 95% CI: 2.073, 5.909, P <0.001) and had an increased hazard of developing SCFE (hazard ratio: 2.627, 95% CI: 1.555, 4.437, P <0.001). Patients with higher exposure to HGH (defined as >10 prescriptions) had an RR of 1.914 (95% CI: 1.160, 3.159, P =0.010) when compared with their counterparts with ≤10 prescriptions.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest study to date, HGH administration was associated with an elevated risk of SCFE in children in a dose-dependent manner.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-therapeutic retrospective cohort study.

Human immunodeficiency virus infection is associated with greater risk of pneumonia and readmission after cardiac surgery

Objective

Human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV+) is associated with a 2-fold increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Increasingly, patients who are HIV + are being evaluated to undergo cardiac surgery. Current risk-adjusted scoring systems, including the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality score, fail to stratify HIV + risk. Unfortunately, there exists a paucity of cardiac surgery outcomes data in modern patients who are HIV+.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of PearlDiver, an all-payer claims administrative database. In total, 14,714,743 patients were captured between 2010 and 2020. Of these, 59,695 (0.4%) of patients had a history of HIV+, and 1759 (2.95%) of these patients underwent cardiac surgery. Patients who were HIV+ were younger, more often male, and had greater comorbidity, history of hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic liver disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, and heart failure.

Results

Postoperatively, patients who were HIV + had significantly greater rates of pneumonia (relative risk, 1.70; P = .0003) and 30-day all-cause readmission (relative risk, 1.28, P < .0001). After linear regression analysis, these results remained significant. Data also show that a lesser proportion of patients with HIV + underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve replacement, and any cardiac surgery compared with controls.

Conclusions

Patients who are HIV + undergoing cardiac surgery are at greater risk of pneumonia and readmission. Moreover, we discovered lower rates of cardiac surgery in patients who are HIV+, which may reflect limited access to surgery when indicated. Today's risk-adjusted scoring systems in cardiac surgery need to better account for the modern patient who is HIV+.

Rate and Risk Factors for Contralateral Slippage in Adolescents Treated for Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A Comprehensive Analysis of 3,528 Cases

BACKGROUND

After a unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), the contralateral hip is at risk for a subsequent SCFE. However, further information with regard to risk factors involved in the development of contralateral SCFE must be investigated. The purpose of this study was to report the rate and risk factors for subsequent contralateral SCFE in adolescents treated for unilateral SCFE by exploring a mix of known and potential risk factors.

METHODS

A case-control study utilizing aggregated multi-institutional electronic medical record data between January 2003 and March 2023 was conducted. Patients <18 years of age diagnosed with SCFE who underwent surgical management were included. Variables associated with contralateral SCFE were identified using multivariable logistic regression models that adjusted for patient characteristics and time of the surgical procedure, providing adjusted odds ratios (ORs). The false discovery rate was accounted for via the Benjamini-Hochberg method.

RESULTS

In this study, 15.3% of patients developed contralateral SCFE at a mean (and standard error) of 296.53 ± 17.23 days and a median of 190 days following the initial SCFE. Increased thyrotropin (OR, 1.43 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04 to 1.97]; p = 0.022), diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.67 [95% CI, 1.22 to 2.49]; p = 0.005), severe obesity (OR, 1.81 [95% CI, 1.56 to 2.57]; p < 0.001), history of human growth hormone use (OR, 1.85 [95% CI, 1.10 to 3.38]; p = 0.032), low vitamin D (OR, 5.75 [95% CI, 2.23 to 13.83]; p < 0.001), younger age in boys (under 12 years of age: OR, 1.85 [95% CI, 1.37 to 2.43]; p < 0.001) and in girls (under 11 years of age: OR, 1.47 [95% CI, 1.05 to 2.02]; p = 0.026), and tobacco exposure (OR, 2.43 [95% CI, 1.49 to 3.87]; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased odds of developing contralateral SCFE.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest study on this topic, we identified the rate, odds, and risk factors associated with development of contralateral SCFE. We found younger age, hypothyroidism, severe obesity, low vitamin D, diabetes mellitus, and a history of human growth hormone use to be independent risk factors. Our findings can aid clinical decision-making in at-risk patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Risk of 30-Day All-Cause Readmission in Interstitial Lung Disease Patients after COVID-19: National-Level Data

Rationale: Hospital readmission within 30 days poses challenges for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients because of its impact on care quality, costs, and outcomes. Patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) are particularly affected by readmission, which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and reduced quality of life. Because small sample sizes have hindered previous studies, this study seeks to address this gap in knowledge by examining a large-scale dataset. Objective: To determine the rate and probability of 30-day all-cause readmission and secondary outcomes in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or ILD admitted to the hospital. Methods: This study is a nested cohort study that used the PearlDiver patient records database. Adult patients (age ⩾18 yr) who were admitted to hospitals in 28 states in the United States with COVID-19 or ILD diagnoses were included. We defined and analyzed two separate cohorts in this study. The first cohort consisted of patients with COVID-19 and was later divided into two groups with or without a history of ILD. The second cohort consisted of patients with ILD and was later divided into groups with COVID-19 or with a non-COVID-19 pneumonia diagnosis at admission. We also studied two other subcohorts of patients with and without idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis within the second cohort. Propensity score matching was employed to match confounders between groups. The Kaplan-Meier log rank test was applied to compare the probabilities of outcomes. Results: We assessed the data of 2,286,775 patients with COVID-19 and 118,892 patients with ILD. We found that patients with COVID-19 with preexisting ILD had an odds ratio of 1.6 for 30-day all-cause readmission. Similarly, an odds ratio of 2.42 in readmission rates was observed among hospitalized individuals with ILD who contracted COVID-19 compared with those who were hospitalized for non-COVID-19 pneumonia. Our study also found a significantly higher probability of intensive care admission among patients in both cohorts. Conclusions: Patients with ILD face heightened rates of hospital readmissions, particularly when ILD is combined with COVID-19, resulting in adverse outcomes such as decreased quality of life and increased healthcare expenses. It is imperative to prioritize preventive measures against COVID-19 and establish effective postdischarge care strategies for patients with ILD.

Bisphosphonate Use May be Associated With an Increased Risk of Periprosthetic Hip Fracture

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is common among patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of bisphosphonate treatment on osteoporotic patients undergoing primary THA.

METHODS

Using a national database, 30,137 patients who had osteoporosis before primary elective THA were identified during 2010 to 2020. Patients undergoing nonelective THA and those using corticosteroids or other medications for osteoporosis were excluded. Bisphosphonate users and bisphosphonate naïve patients were matched 1:1 based on age, sex, Elixhauser comorbidity index, and a history of obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, tobacco use, and alcohol abuse. Kaplan-Meier and multivariate analyses were used to compare 2-year outcomes between groups.

RESULTS

Among matched cohorts of 9,844 patients undergoing primary THA, bisphosphonate use was associated with a significantly higher 2-year rate of periprosthetic fracture (odds ratio 1.29, 95% confidence interval 1.04 to 1.61, P = .022). There was a trend toward increased risk of any revision with bisphosphonate use (odds ratio 1.19, confidence interval 1.00 to 1.41, P = .056). Rates of infection, aseptic loosening, dislocation, and mortality were not statistically different between bisphosphonate users and bisphosphonate-naïve patients.

CONCLUSION

In osteoporotic patients, bisphosphonate use before primary THA is an independent risk factor for periprosthetic fracture. Additional longer-term data are needed to determine the underlying mechanism for this association and identify preventative measures.

Social determinants of health in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty: are they associated with medical complications, healthcare utilization, and payments for care?

INTRODUCTION

Social determinants of health (SDOH) have previously been shown to impact orthopedic surgery outcomes. This study assessed whether greater socioeconomic disadvantage in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty following femoral neck fracture was associated with differences in (1) medical complications, (2) emergency department (ED) utilization, (3) readmission rates, and (4) payments for care.

METHODS

A US nationwide database was queried for hemiarthroplasties performed between 2010 and 2020. Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a validated measure of socioeconomic disadvantage reported on a scale of 0-100, was used to compare two cohorts of greater and lesser deprivation. Patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty from high ADI (95% +) were 1:1 propensity score matched to a comparison group of lower ADI (0-94%) while controlling for age, sex, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index. This yielded 75,650 patients evenly distributed between the two cohorts. Outcomes studied were 90-day medical complications, ED utilizations, readmissions, and payments for care. Multivariate logistic regression models were utilized to calculate odds ratios (ORs) of the relationship between ADI and outcomes. p Values < 0.05 were significant.

RESULTS

Patients of high ADI developed greater medical complications (46.74% vs. 44.97%; OR 1.05, p = 0.002), including surgical site infections (1.19% vs. 1.00%; OR 1.20, p = 0.011), cerebrovascular accidents (1.64% vs. 1.41%; OR 1.16, p = 0.012), and respiratory failures (2.27% vs. 2.02%; OR 1.13, p = 0.017) compared to patients from lower ADIs. Although comparable rates of ED visits (2.92% vs. 2.86%; OR 1.02, p = 0.579), patients from higher ADI were readmitted at diminished rates (10.57% vs. 11.06%; OR 0.95, p = 0.027). Payments were significantly higher on the day of surgery ($7,570 vs. $5,974, p < 0.0001), as well as within 90 days after surgery ($12,700 vs. $10,462, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Socioeconomically disadvantaged patients experience increased 90-day medical complications and payments, similar ED utilizations, and decreased readmissions. These findings can be used to inform healthcare providers to minimize disparities in care.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Testosterone replacement therapy is associated with increased odds of Achilles tendon injury and subsequent surgery: a matched retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Prescription of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has increased in the United States in recent years, and though anabolic steroids have been associated with tendon rupture, there is a paucity of literature evaluating the risk of Achilles tendon injury with TRT. This study aims to evaluate the associative relationship between consistent TRT, Achilles tendon injury, and subsequent surgery.

METHODS

This is a one-to-one matched retrospective cohort study utilizing the PearlDiver database. Records were queried for patients aged 35-75 who were prescribed at least 3 consecutive months of TRT between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2019. Achilles tendon injuries and subsequent surgeries were identified using ICD-9, ICD-10, and CPT billing codes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare odds of Achilles tendon injury, Achilles tendon surgery, and revision surgery, with a p-value < 0.05 representing statistical significance.

RESULTS

A sample of 423,278 patients who filled a TRT prescription for a minimum of 3 consecutive months was analyzed. The 2-year incidence of Achilles tendon injury was 377.8 (95% CI, 364.8-391.0) per 100,000 person-years in the TRT cohort, compared to 245.8 (95% CI, 235.4-256.6) in the control (p < 0.001). The adjusted analysis demonstrated TRT to be associated with a significantly increased likelihood of being diagnosed with Achilles tendon injury (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI, 1.15-1.33, p < 0.001). Of those diagnosed with Achilles tendon injury, 287/3,198 (9.0%) of the TRT cohort subsequently underwent surgery for their injury, compared to 134/2,081 (6.4%) in the control cohort (aOR = 1.54, 95% CI, 1.19-1.99, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant association between Achilles tendon injury and prescription TRT, with a concomitantly increased rate of undergoing surgical management. These results provide insight into the risk profile of TRT and further research into the science of tendon pathology in the setting of TRT is an area of continued interest.

Nationwide Analysis of Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Trends: Regional Variations in Utilization and Population Characteristics

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective cohort analysis.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluates utilization and demographic trends for sacroiliac joint (SIJ) fusions across the United States (US).

METHODS

Patients who underwent SIJ fusion from 2010-2021 were identified within the PearlDiver national database using International Classification of Disease (ICD-9, ICD-10) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Indications for trauma, malignancy, or infection were excluded. Demographic, clinical, and procedure characteristics were recorded along with annual utilization rates. Annual percent change (APC) was calculated to identify increasing or decreasing utilization from prior years. Negative binomial regression was performed to project subsequent utilization for 2022-2028. Chi-squared analysis followed by post-hoc comparisons were used to compare differences in diagnostic indications and clinical features associated with SIJ fusion across regions. Bonferroni adjustments were applied to P-values for pairwise analyses.

RESULTS

Overall, 18 032 patients (69.8% female, mean age = 51.0 + 13.4 years) underwent SIJ fusion between 2010 and 2021. Annual utilization increased by 33.5% on average. The South comprised the largest proportion of cases (48.9%). Projections for 2022-2028 predict continued growth in procedures, with an overall increase of 1100% from 1350 cases in 2021 to 16 195 by end of 2028. Spondyloarthropathy-induced sacroilitis was the most prevalent diagnostic indication nationwide (51%). Of patients undergoing SIJ fusion, 18% had a prior lumbar fusion, and only 45% received a preoperative diagnostic SIJ injection.

CONCLUSION

As SIJ fusion is increasingly utilized to treat refractory SIJ-based pain, establishing evidence-based guidelines, improving diagnostic strategies, and defining indications are imperative to support growing applications within clinical practice.

Editorial Commentary: Rates of 5-Year Secondary Surgery After Hip Arthroscopy May Be Higher Than Reported: The Highs and Lows of the Administrative Database Study

Administrative claims databases have great power for clinical research, especially when used to evaluate trends from large cohorts. However, it should be noted that in these types of studies, patients in a database are treated at different time points, so some patients do not reach long-term follow-up by the end of the study period. Thus, such analyses require more stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, which may significantly reduce the size of the included cohort. Recent research using the PearlDiver database has reported that the 5-year secondary surgery rate after hip arthroscopy is 4.9%. However, our research using the PearlDiver Mariner data set showed a 2-year reoperation rate after hip arthroscopy of 15%, and although most secondary surgical procedures occur within the first 2 years after hip arthroscopy, the 5-year reoperation rate may be higher. Readers should remain alert to the limitations of large database analyses.

The Association of Prior Fragility Fractures on 8-Year Periprosthetic Fracture Risk Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Fragility fractures are often the initial clinical presentation of osteoporosis. Patients who have a history of fragility fractures undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) have an increased risk of 2-year postoperative complications. However, the association of recent fragility fractures with complications beyond 2 years following THA remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to characterize the association of prior fragility fractures with 8-year risks of revision THA, periprosthetic fracture (PPF), and secondary fragility fracture.

METHODS

Patients aged 50 years and more who underwent THA for osteoarthritis were identified in a large national database. Patients were stratified based on whether they sustained a fragility fracture within 3 years prior to THA. There were 18,529 patients who had a prior fragility fracture and 408,753 who did not have a prior fragility fracture. Demographics and comorbidities were collected. Kaplan-Meier and Cox Proportional Hazards analyses were used to observe the cumulative incidences of all-cause revision, PPF, and secondary fragility fracture within 8 years of index surgery.

RESULTS

Patients who had recent fragility fracture had significantly higher risks of revision THA (Hazard Ratio [HR] 1.7; P < .001), PPF (HR 2.2; P < .001), and secondary fragility fracture (HR 4.9; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Prior fragility fracture was shown to be a significant risk factor for revision THA, PPF, and secondary fragility fracture within 8 years of THA. Identification of these high-risk patients with an emphasis on preoperative and postoperative bone health optimization may help minimize these complications.

Spine or Hip First? Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Sequential Lumbar Spine or Hip surgery

INTRODUCTION

Lumbar spine pathology frequently coexists in patients who have hip arthrosis. There is controversy on whether lumbar or hip pathology should be first addressed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of sequential lumbar spine (LSP) or hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

Using a large national database from 2010 to 2020, we reviewed the records of 241,279 patients who had concurrent hip arthritis and lumbar spine disease defined as spinal stenosis, lumbar radiculopathy, or degenerative disc disease. During the study period, 6,458 (2.7%) patients with concurrent hip/spine disease underwent sequential operative treatment of either the hip joint or lumbar spine within 2 years. The rates of subsequent surgery in either the hip or spine, opioid requirements, and rates of hip dislocation were determined and analyzed using compared Chi-squared analyses.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing THA first had lower risk of subsequent spinal procedure compared to patients who had spinal procedures first (5.7 vs. 23.7 %, P < 0.001). This disparity was maintained up to 5 years (P<0.001). Opioid requirements at 1 year were highest in patients who underwent spinal procedures only (836 pills/patient) compared to any other group (THA only (566 pills/patient), LSP and then THA (564 pills/patient), THA and LSP (586 pills/patient). Also, THA following LSP was associated with significantly higher rates of dislocation compared to patients undergoing THA first (3.2 versus 1.9%, P<0.001).

SUMMARY

Total hip arthroplasty first in patients who have concurrent spine disease was associated with lower risk of subsequent surgery, opioid requirement, and risk of postoperative instability compared to patients having lumbar procedure first.

Fibromyalgia Increases Post-Operative Healthcare Utilization Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Pre-operative factors can complicate the post-operative course and increase healthcare utilization following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Fibromyalgia is not generally recognized as a modifiable risk factor prior to THA. The aim of this investigation was to assess the effect of fibromyalgia on post-operative healthcare utilization following THA.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary THA from 2018 to 2019 were identified from a large national database using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases, tenth revision (ICD-10) codes. Patient demographics, age, sex, and pre-operative opioid use were collected. Analysis compared patients who did and did not have fibromyalgia for post-operative healthcare utilization metrics; lengths of stay (LOS), 90-day post-operative opioid usages, dislocations, and emergency room visits. Independent t-testings were used to compare LOS, and rates of ongoing opioid use. Logistic regression analyses with adjusted Odds Ratios (aORs) evaluated the risk of dislocation and emergency room visit after adjusting for demographic characteristics and comorbidities.

RESULTS

Compared to those who did not have fibromyalgia, patients who had fibromyalgia experienced longer LOS (P<0.0001), increased odds of opioid use 90-days post-operatively (P<0.0001), as well as increased odds of hip dislocation (P<0.0001) and presentation to the emergency room (P<0.0001). Patients who had fibromyalgia were also more likely to be "frequent flyers" with >5 emergency room visits after THA (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Fibromyalgia can complicate post-operative care following THA with increased LOS, higher rates of opioid use, and increased odds of dislocation and emergency room visits. As focus shifts to pre-operative optimization and risk stratification, more attention should be placed on fibromyalgia prior to THA.