Steroid modulation of cytokine release and desmosine levels in bilateral total knee replacement: a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial

Effect of Perioperative Corticosteroid Administration on Early Postoperative Range of Motion and Functional Outcomes Following Dupuytren's Fasciectomy

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether perioperative corticosteroid (CS) administration improves early postoperative range of motion (ROM) and function in patients undergoing Dupuytren's fasciectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 58 patients who underwent Dupuytren's fasciectomy by a single fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon from 2016 to 2020. During this time period, 51 digits in 34 patients received a single intraoperative dose of 10 mg of intravenous dexamethasone followed by a 6-day oral methylprednisolone taper course (CS group), and 37 digits in 24 patients did not (control group). Postoperatively, all patients started hand therapy within 1 week of surgery. At 2 and 6 weeks, patients had ROM data and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores collected by a blinded hand therapist. Paired t tests were used to compare the change in ROM and DASH scores at weeks 2 and 6.

RESULTS

The 2 cohorts had similar preoperative ROM. At 2 weeks postoperatively, the CS group had greater metacarpophalangeal (MP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and distal interphalangeal (DIP) flexion. There was no difference in MP, PIP, or DIP extension. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the CS group had greater PIP flexion. There was no difference between the groups in MP extension, MP flexion, PIP extension, DIP extension, or DIP flexion. Mean DASH scores were significantly lower in the CS group at weeks 2 and 6. There were no postoperative deep infections or complications requiring surgery in either group.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative CS administration appears to be safe and to improve early ROM and DASH scores following Dupuytren's fasciectomy.

Systemic glucocorticoids as an adjunct to treatment of postoperative pain after total hip and knee arthroplasty: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative analgesic effects of systemic glucocorticoids given as an adjunct to treatment are largely undetermined in alloplastic procedures.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the beneficial and harmful effects of peri-operative systemic glucocorticoid treatment for pain after total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

DESIGN

A systematic review of randomised clinical trials (RCTs) with meta-analyses, trial sequential analyses and GRADE. Primary outcome was 24 h intravenous (i.v.) morphine (or equivalent) consumption with a predefined minimal important difference (MID) of 5 mg. Secondary outcomes included pain at rest and during mobilisation (MID, VAS 10 mm), adverse and serious adverse events (SAEs).

DATA SOURCES

We searched EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, PubMed and Google Scholar up to October 2021.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

RCTs investigating peri-operative systemic glucocorticoid versus placebo or no intervention, for analgesic pain management of patients at least 18 years undergoing planned THA or TKA, irrespective of publication date and language.

RESULTS

We included 32 RCTs with 3521 patients. Nine trials were at a low risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed evidence of a reduction in 24 h cumulative morphine consumption with glucocorticoids by 5.0 mg (95% CI 2.2 to 7.7; P  = 0.0004). Pain at rest was reduced at 6 h by 7.8 mm (95% CI 5.5 to 10.2; P  < 0.00001), and at 24 h by 6.3 mm (95% CI 3.8 to 8.8; P  < 0.00001). Pain during mobilisation was reduced at 6 h by 9.8 mm (95% CI 6.9 to 12.8; P  < 0.00001), and at 24 h by 9.0 mm (95% CI 5.5 to 12.4, P  < 0.00001). Incidence of adverse events was generally lower in the glucocorticoid treatment group. SAEs were rarely reported. The GRADE rated quality of evidence was low to very low.

CONCLUSION

Peri-operative systemic glucocorticoid treatment reduced postoperative morphine consumption to an individually relevant level following hip and knee arthroplasty. Pain levels were reduced but were below the predefined MID. The quality of evidence was generally low.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO ID: CRD42019135034.

Postoperative fever: differences between elective vs. traumatic hip, knee and shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether there is a difference in the incidence of postoperative fever (POF) between hip, knee and shoulder arthroplasty. The influence of a trauma setting has not been investigated.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on 675 joint replacement surgeries (hip, knee, shoulder arthroplasty) in an elective or trauma setting over a 2 year period (2016-2018). Patient demographics and perioperative/postoperative parameters were investigated. The fever curve was characterized. The results and costs of any fever-related diagnostic workup were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 89 patients (13.2%) experienced a POF ≥ 38.0 °C, only 21 patients (3.1%) a POF ≥ 38.5 °C (of the latter: 4.6% of hip arthroplasties, 0.6% of knee arthroplasties, 0% of shoulder arthroplasties). There was a significantly greater risk (OR 3.88) for POF ≥ 38.5 °C in trauma total hip arthroplasty (THA) compared to elective THA (10.6 vs. 3.0%; p < 0.01). Differences in POF rate between the various joint areas were statistically insignificant when comparing only elective and trauma cases with each other, even though there was a trend for higher rates in hip surgery. Patients experiencing POF ≥ 38.5 °C were more often males (p < 0.01) and had an increased intraoperative blood loss (p = 0.03) and longer hospital stay (p < 0.01). There was only 1/89 POF patients developing an early periprosthetic joint infection. The cost of a positive fever workup (3/27 patients, 11.1%) leading to a new diagnosis and treatment was 2045 US$.

CONCLUSION

POF ≥ 38.5 °C was more frequent in traumatic THA compared to elective THA. A trend of difference between POF rates between the different joint areas was statistically insignificant after separating elective and traumatic cases. The risk of developing an early periprosthetic joint infection was not increased in POF. A fever-related diagnostic workup was rarely helpful in the absence of clinical symptoms.

Comparison of Femoral Triangle Block in Combination with IPACK to Local Periarticular Injection in Total Knee Arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

 This article studied the efficacy of two different analgesic methods after unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to find an effective analgesic method.

METHODS

 A randomized, double-blind, placebo, parallel, and controlled study was performed to evaluate the benefits of combining the femoral triangle block (FTB) and the interspace between the popliteal artery and the capsule of the posterior knee (IPACK). Forty patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and underwent unilateral primary TKA with FTB and IPACK were divided grouped into the experimental group, and 40 patients undergoing TKA with intra-articular cocktail analgesic mixture local injection were grouped into the control group. All patients received the patient-controlled anesthesia pump for analgesia at postoperative 48 hours. The main indexes were postoperative knee joint rest and activity pain (visual analog scale) and muscle strength of the affected limb; secondary indexes were anesthetic consumption, total morphine consumption, range of motion, and complications (such as postoperative nausea and vomiting [PONV]).

RESULTS

 There was no significant difference in the general data of each treatment group. Compared with the conventional group, the quadriceps muscle strength of the combined FTB and IPACK group was higher with significant statistical differences after surgery (p < 0.05). At postoperative 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours, active pain was better than in the conventional group (p < 0.05). Resting pain was significantly smaller than the traditional group only at postoperative 2, 6, 12, and 48 hours (p < 0.05). Morphine consumption, anesthetics consumption, and hospitalization time were lower than the conventional group, the difference being statistically significant. There were no significant differences between the two groups in postoperative wound healing, infection incidence, blood pressure, heart rate, rash, respiratory depression, deep vein thrombosis, and urinary retention. There were also no significant differences in PONV (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

 Combining FTB and IPACK significantly increased the quadriceps muscle in patients, together with relieving early pain and reducing the amount of anesthetic consumption at different postoperative intervals.

Low-Dose Perioperative Corticosteroids Can Be Administered Without Additional Morbidity in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Total Knee Replacement: A Retrospective Follow-up Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Short-term benefits of perioperative corticosteroid injections (CSIs) for bilateral total knee replacement (BTKR) include suppressed inflammation, improved knee motion, and reduced pain. Very little is known about the long-term benefits, complications, and safety of corticosteroids administered in the perioperative period. Purpose: We sought to compare 3-year follow-up outcomes of BTKR patients who received perioperative CSI with those who received placebo. We hypothesized that there would be no statistically significant differences in functional outcomes or adverse events based on whether or not CSIs were administered in the perioperative period. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of chart and registry data of BTKR patients from a prior randomized controlled trial to compare outcomes in patients who received hydrocortisone vs placebo injections after BTKR (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01399268 and NCT01815918). Outcomes were compared at 6 and 12 weeks and at 1, 2, and 3 years. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were used to evaluate clinical outcomes. Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests were used to compare the risk of complications between treatments after adjustment for trial. When possible, summary relative risk estimates were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel method. Results: No BTKR patients in the treatment group developed an infection. The risk of complications did not increase in patients who received CSI compared with those who received placebo. Patients in the CSI group experienced greater reductions in pain and stiffness, though these results were not statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in the KOOS-Symptoms, KOOS-Activities of Daily Living, KOOS-Sports, KOOS-Quality of Life, or WOMAC Function scores. Conclusions: Low-dose corticosteroids can be administered in selected patients who undergo BTKR without increasing the risk of adverse events. At 3-year follow-up, administration of low-dose corticosteroids did not result in superior clinical outcomes scores when compared with placebo.

Postoperative Infection Risk in Total Joint Arthroplasty After Perioperative IV Corticosteroid Administration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies

BACKGROUND

Perioperative corticosteroid administration is associated with reduced postoperative nausea, pain, and enhanced recovery after surgery. However, potential complications including wound and periprosthetic joint infections remain a concern for surgeons after total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

METHODS

A systematic review of the search databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE was made in January 2021 to identify comparative studies evaluating infection risk after perioperative corticosteroid administration in TJA. PRISMA guidelines were used for this review. Meta-analysis was used to assess infection risk in accordance with joint and corticosteroid dosing regimen used.

RESULTS

201 studies were returned after initial search strategy, with 29 included for review after application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies were categorized as using low- or high-dose corticosteroid with single or repeat dosing regimens. Single low-dose corticosteroid administration was not associated with an increased risk of infection (P = .4; CI = 0.00-0.00). Single high-dose corticosteroid was not associated with an increased infection risk (P = .3; CI = 0.00-0.01) nor did repeat low-dose regimens result in increased risk of infection (P = .8; CI = -0.02-0.02). Studies assessing repeat high-dosing regimens reported no increased infection, with small numbers of participants included. No significant risk difference in infection risk was noted in hip (P = .59; CI = -0.03-0.02) or knee (P = .2; CI = 0.00-0.01) arthroplasty. Heterogeneity in patient profiles included in studies to date was noted.

CONCLUSION

Use of perioperative corticosteroid in TJA does not appear to be associated with increased risk of postoperative infection in patients with limited comorbidities. Further research is warranted to evaluate postoperative complications after TJA in these at-risk patient populations.

Lung injury in patients age 75 years and older with the use of polymethylmethacrylate fenestrated pedicle screws

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Pulmonary complications in patients age 75 years and older who undergo spinal fusion may have catastrophic consequences. The use of augmentation techniques with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) have been associated with pulmonary damage. The use of fenestrated pedicle screws augmented with PMMA may increase the risk of lung injury in this population.

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the use of PMMA-augmented screws is correlated with increased lung injury in patients undergoing instrumented lumbar spinal fusion.

STUDY DESIGN

A nonrandomized, prospective, case-controlled clinical study was carried out.

PATIENT SAMPLE

We included 50 consecutive patients: 25 classifieds as patients who required PMMA-augmented screws in lumbar spinal fusion, and 25 classifieds as control participants because they underwent uncemented instrumented spinal fusion.

OUTCOME MEASURES

We compare the incidence of the event, lung damage, in both groups by measuring a series of parameters: arterial blood gas, transesophageal echocardiography, urinary desmosine, and chest radiograph. The epidemiological parameters analyzed were age, sex, body mass index, status as a smoker, and number of cement leaks.

METHODS

Changes in pulmonary damage markers were described in both groups of patients, comparing postsurgery values with baseline values. In control participants, each change was evaluated for the total number of patients. All changes are indicated in this report by mean differences for quantitative variables and by differing proportions for qualitative variables, with 95% confidence intervals provided for all values.

RESULTS

There was an increase in postinstrumentation PaO2 (arterial partial pressure of oxygen) in both groups, probably related to the use of mechanical ventilation and recruitment maneuvers. Even though the group that required augmentation had lower baseline levels, the difference between groups was not statistically significant. On transesophageal echocardiographs, we observed scattered small, snowflake-like emboli, and bright echo signals appeared in the right atrium during PMMA injection. Signal density was constant but gradually faded away when PMMA injection ended. No participants in the group without augmentation had radiological complications. Overall, desmosine levels increased in both groups, and the rise was similar in both. There was a slight average increase in urine desmosine levels after instrumentation and progressively continues to rise until 24 hours after instrumentation, with a subsequent decrease at 72 hours. Comparing the two groups, we found no statistically significant differences at any time.

CONCLUSIONS

We were not able to identify a significant difference in urine desmosine levels associated with the augmentation of with fenestrated pedicle screws with PMMA. Despite comparing patients age 75 years or older with a younger group, we found no clinical, analytical, or gasometric data indicating lung damage in patients who had augmentation.

Perioperative steroid administration improves knee function and reduces opioid consumption in bilateral total knee arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

The benefits of steroid usage have been well described for unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA), however it's benefits in bilateral TKA has not been well published in the literature. We describe the impact of perioperative steroid administration in a cohort of bilateral TKAs (74 knees) with regard to immediate postoperative knee function, postoperative knee strength and opioid consumption.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We report on a single-surgeon consecutive case series of simultaneously-performed bilateral TKAs. Eighteen patients received 2 doses of 8 mg IV dexamethasone in the perioperative setting. There were 19 patients in the control group. Primary outcome measures were day 1 postoperative knee flexion (degrees), knee strength and postoperative analgesic requirements (mg/mcg). Morphine dose equivalents (MDE) were calculated to compare all opioid-based analgesics. Secondary outcomes included post-operative pain according to the VAS (at 24, 48 and 72 h), anti-emetic requirements (mg) and length of stay (days).

RESULTS

The mean knee flexion achieved day 1 in the steroid group was 70.1°(σ = 17.64, 95% CI 64.1-76.0) compared to 55.8° in the non-steroid group (σ = 19.8, 95% CI 49.2-62.3) (p = 0.0008). Regarding the straight leg raise, 88.9% of the steroid group were able to achieve this compared to only 55.2% of the non-steroid group (p = 0.002). There was a reduction in the MDE requirement per patient across all medications for the 'steroid' group. Both Targin® (p = 0.03) (Prolonged-Release Oxycodone) and Fentanyl (p = 0.01) requirements were significantly reduced in the 'steroid' group.

CONCLUSION

We recommend the use of perioperative steroids in bilateral TKA to allow accelerated rehabilitation, improved immediate knee function and an overall reduction in the consumption of potentially problematic opioid-based analgesics.

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Intravenous Dexamethasone Injection Reduces Pain From 12 to 21 Hours After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) affects postoperative recovery and patient satisfaction. The analgesic benefits of corticosteroids have not been well studied. We, therefore, investigated the analgesic effects of intravenous (IV) dexamethasone (DEX) in patients undergoing a TKA.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 0.15 mg/kg of IV DEX vs saline placebo in unilateral TKA. Fifty patients/arm were recruited. Primary outcomes were pain level, determined by a visual analog scale, and the amount of morphine consumption (mg) ≤48 hours post-TKA. Secondary outcomes were rates of nausea and vomiting, C-reactive protein concentrations, and functional outcomes.

RESULTS

The DEX group had a significantly lower mean visual analog scale score both at rest and during motion at 12, 15, 18, and 21 hours (P < .05). At 21 hours, the mean difference (Δ) in pain at rest was -11 points (95% confidence interval [CI], -21 to -2 points; P = .02) while the mean difference in pain during motion was -15 points (95% CI, -25 to -5 points; P = .004). The DEX group also had lower rates of nausea and vomiting: 29/50 (58%) vs 42/50 (84%) (P = .008) and lower mean C-reactive protein level: 89 vs 167, Δ = -78 mg/L (95% CI, -100 to -58 mg/L, P < .0001). There were no significant differences in mean morphine consumption by 48 hours, modified Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index scores, and range of motion of the knee at 3-month follow-up (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

IV DEX relieves postoperative pain between 12 to 21 hours after TKA and may be a useful adjunct for controlling pain in patients undergoing TKA.

Efficacy of Systemic Steroid Use Given One Day After Total Knee Arthroplasty for Pain and Nausea: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Systemic steroid has been used to control pain and nausea in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but most studies recommend a single dose administration prior to, or during, surgery. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of administration on 1 day postoperatively.

METHODS

Patients who were scheduled to undergo TKA were randomly assigned to the following groups: control group, receiving normal saline injection; group 1, receiving 10 mg dexamethasone intravenously (IV) 1 hour before surgery; group 2, receiving 0.1 mg/kg dexamethasone (IV) 24 hours after surgery; or group 3, receiving 0.2 mg/kg dexamethasone (IV) 24 hours after surgery (n = 44-46 per group). Primary outcomes were pain and nausea visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes were analgesic administration, rescue antiemetic administration, C-reactive protein, range of motion, and complications.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain and nausea remained high for 48 hours post-TKA. Group 1 had lower pain and nausea VAS scores than did the control group (P < .01) for only 24 hours post-TKA. Groups 2 and 3 had lower pain and nausea VAS scores than did the control group and group 1 (P < .01) 48 hours post-TKA. Analgesic and antiemetic administration were significantly lower in groups 2 and 3 than in the control group during 48 hours after TKA. There were no differences in C-reactive protein level and range of motion, and complications were not detected.

CONCLUSION

The effect of preoperative and postoperative administration of dexamethasone for controlling pain and nausea was observed only for 24 hours. Considering that severe pain and nausea persisted for more than 48 hours after TKA, additional administration of dexamethasone at 1 day postoperatively is suggested.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Methylprednisolone Does Not Reduce Acute Postoperative Pain After Cardiac Surgery: Subanalysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Pain after cardiac surgery is largely treated with opioids, but their poor safety profile makes nonopioid medications attractive as part of multimodal pathways. Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce acute postoperative pain, but the role of steroids in reducing acute poststernotomy pain is unclear. We evaluated the association between the intraoperative administration of methylprednisolone and postoperative analgesia, defined as a composite of pain scores and opioid consumption, during the initial 24 hours after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a post hoc retrospective analysis of a large clinical trial in which adults having cardiac surgery were randomized 1:1 to receive 2 intraoperative doses of 250 mg IV methylprednisolone or placebo. Pain scores and opioid consumption were collected during the initial 24 hours after surgery. Methylprednisolone was considered to be associated with better pain control than placebo if proven noninferior (not worse) on both pain scores (defined a priori with delta of 1 point) and opioid consumption (delta of 20%) and superior to placebo in at least 1 of the 2 outcomes. This test was repeated in the opposite direction (testing whether placebo is better than methylprednisolone on postoperative pain management).

RESULTS

Of 251 eligible patients, 127 received methylprednisolone and 124 received placebo. Methylprednisolone was noninferior to placebo on pain with difference in mean (CI) pain scores of -0.25 (-0.71 to 0.21); P < .001. However, methylprednisolone was not noninferior to placebo on opioid consumption (ratio of geometric means [CI]: 1.11 [0.64-1.91]; P = .37). Because methylprednisolone was not noninferior to placebo on both outcomes, we did not proceed to superiority testing based on the a priori stopping rules. Similar results were found when testing the opposite direction.

CONCLUSIONS

In this post hoc analysis, we could not identify a beneficial analgesic effect after cardiac surgery associated with methylprednisolone administration. There are currently no data to suggest that methylprednisolone has significant analgesic benefit in adults having cardiac surgery.

Chronic, Active Inflammation in Patients With Failed Total Knee Replacements Undergoing Revision Surgery

Chronic pain and restricted knee motion is a significant problem following the total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The molecular pathogenesis of pain post-TKA is not known and no targeted therapeutic intervention is available. The aim of this study was to investigate whether pro-inflammatory mediators are elevated in revision knee patients, indicating an active, ongoing inflammatory process that may contribute to pain. Twelve key markers (pro-inflammatory cytokines granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor [GM-CSF], interleukin 5 [IL-5], IL-8 and IL-10, chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CCL13, mediators of angiogenesis Flt-1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cell migration vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1) were measured in knee tissue and synovial fluid (SF) from primary TKA (n = 29) and revision patients (n = 32). Indications for surgery were osteoarthritis (OA) for primary TKA, and component loosening (n = 11), stiffness (n = 11), laxity pattern (n = 8), or progression of OA in patella resurfacing (n = 3) for revision surgery. Pain levels (WOMAC score) were higher in revision than primary patients (p ≤ 0.05). Time from primary to revision ranged from 8 months to 30 years (median 10 years). All markers were elevated in revision TKA; there was no trend toward decreasing levels with greater time from primary surgery for any marker studied in SF. Similar results were seen in knee tissue. We found no differences comparing indications for revision surgery (p ≥ 0.05). The elevation of inflammatory mediators in painful post-TKA knees requiring revision suggests active, chronic inflammation. Characterization of upregulated markers provides rationale for targeted therapy, even many years from the primary surgery. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research^® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2316-2324, 2019.

Effect of Methylprednisolone on Pain Management in Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has been reported to be a successful strategy for patients with advanced osteoarthritis; however, early postoperative pain has become an unresolved issue. Perioperative methylprednisolone (MP) administration in TJA is an important and controversial topic. This study was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of MP for pain management after total knee or hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing MP versus placebo for patients undergoing TKA/THA. Related indicators that reflected the efficacy and safety for pain management were evaluated by meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Six randomized controlled trials involving a total of 350 patients met the inclusion criteria. The outcomes showed that intravenous MP significantly reduced pain scores at 6 and 24 hours during activity after TKA and THA but local use of MP had no clear benefit in reducing pain scores compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in VAS at 24 hours at rest and 48 hours during activity after TKA and THA. In addition, MP was associated with a reduction of morphine consumption at 24 hours after TKA. Furthermore, patients receiving MP had an obvious inflammatory control and improving postoperative nausea and vomiting and the use of MP was not associated with a significant increase in the risk of complications. There was no significant difference in the range of knee motion and length of hospital stay in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that intravenous MP significantly alleviated early postoperative pain and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting after TKA and THA. For safety, intravenous MP as a promising strategy in rapid recovery to TJA.

Increased postoperative dexamethasone and gabapentin reduces opioid consumption after total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

Dexamethasone and gabapentin are used in multimodal pain management protocols to reduce postoperative pain after total knee arthroplasty. For both analgesic adjuvants, the optimal dose regimen to reduce opioid usage is still unclear.

METHODS

The opioid consumption of patients undergoing primary TKA before and after a change of the analgesic adjuvant medication in our protocol (old protocol: 4 mg of dexamethasone daily for 2 days, 600 mg gabapentin daily for 1 week; new protocol: 10 mg dexamethasone daily for 2 days, 300 mg gabapentin every 8 h for 1 week) were retrospectively compared. All surgeries were performed under spinal anesthesia. Peri- and postoperative pain medication remained unchanged.

RESULTS

A total of 186 patients who received TKA between 11/29/2016 and 06/09/2017 were screened. Six patients who received general anesthesia, 4 patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral TKA, and 16 patients with ongoing opioid consumption at the time of surgery were excluded, leaving 80 patients in each group. Opioid consumption within 24 h [morphine equivalents in mg: mean 50.5, standard deviation (SD) 30.0 (old) vs. 39.8, SD 24.2 (new); P = 0.0470], cumulative consumption over 48 h (97.3, SD 64.4 vs. 70.4, SD 51.2; P = 0.0040) and cumulative consumption over 72 h (108.1, SD 79.5 vs. 82.5, SD 72.6; P = 0.0080), were all significantly lower in the new protocol.

CONCLUSION

Increased postoperative administration of dexamethasone and gabapentin after TKA is associated with lower opioid consumption. Within the first 48 h, up to about 25% of opioids can be spared, comparing high-dose to low-dose protocols.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III.

The efficiency and safety of steroid addition to multimodal cocktail periarticular injection in knee joint arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Steroids are frequently used for postoperative pain relief without definite evidence. This study was conducted to assess the pain management effect of the addition of steroids to a multimodal cocktail periarticular injection (MCPI) in patients undergoing knee arthroplasty and evaluate their safety. Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched through April, 2018. A total of 918 patients from ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were ultimately included. Compared with placebo groups, steroids application could effectively relieve pain on postoperative day (POD)1; decrease C-Reactive protein (CRP) level on POD3; improve range of motion (ROM) in postoperative 5 days; reduce morphine consumption, achieve earlier straight leg raising (SLR), and shorten the length of stay (LOS) in hospital. With regards to adverse effects, it did not increase the risk of postoperative infection, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), or other complications. However, no significant difference in pain relief, ROM, or increased Knee Society Knee Function Scores were found during long-term follow up. Overall, this meta-analysis ensured the efficiency and safety of steroids with MCPI in knee arthroplasty patients during the early postoperative period.

Do Corticosteroids Attenuate the Peri-Operative Acute Phase Response After Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Following tissue injury, the acute phase response (APR) functions to survive and then repair injured tissue. An exuberant APR, which can be evoked by total knee arthroplasty (TKA), results in a hyper-inflammatory state, leading to pain, nausea, venous thromboembolism, or potentially life-threatening complications. Here, we observed the effects of peri-operative dexamethasone on the APR following TKA by trending C-reactive protein (CRP, mg/L) and fibrinogen (mg/dL). We hypothesize that the anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone can attenuate the APR after TKA and will be associated with decreased post-operative pain and nausea.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was performed on 188 unilateral TKA procedures. The patients were divided into a group receiving dexamethasone (10 mg intra-operatively and on post-operative day [POD] 1) and a group receiving no corticosteroids. Post-operative CRP, fibrinogen, morphine equivalents, and anti-emetic doses were recorded.

RESULTS

Compared to the non-steroid group, patients receiving dexamethasone yielded a significantly decreased CRP on POD0 (5.5 vs 8.3), POD1 (11.8 vs 22.0), and POD2 (85.5 vs 148.9). A significant decrease in fibrinogen in patients receiving dexamethasone was seen on POD2 (460.0 vs 530.2). There was an increase in fibrinogen within the dexamethasone cohort at the 2-week visit (535.4 vs 488.9). Post-operative morphine equivalents administered were significantly decreased in patients receiving dexamethasone, but no difference in anti-emetic use was appreciated.

CONCLUSION

These data support the hypothesis that the APR following TKA can be attenuated pharmacologically by corticosteroids. Further studies are needed to determine whether the attenuation of the APR with the use of corticosteroids prevents complications following TKA.

The Opioid Crisis and the Orthopedic Surgeon

Opioid use and abuse has become a national crisis in the United States. Many opioid abusers become addicted through an initial course of legal, physician-prescribed medications. Consequently, there has been increased pressure on medical care providers to be better stewards of these medications. In orthopedic surgery and total joint arthroplasty, pain control after surgery is critical for restoring mobility and maintaining patient satisfaction in the early postoperative period. Before the opioid misuse epidemic, orthopedic surgeons were frequently influenced to "treat pain with pain medications." Long-acting opioids, such as OxyContin were used commonly. In the past decade, there has been a paradigm shift in favor of multimodal pain control with limited opioid use. This review will discuss 4 major topics. First, we will describe the pressures on orthopedic surgeons to prescribe narcotic pain medications. We will then discuss the major and minor complications and side effects associated with these prescriptions. Second, we will review how these factors motivated the development of alternative pain management strategies and a multimodal approach. Third, we will look at perioperative interventions that can reduce postoperative opioid consumption, including wound injections and peripheral nerve blocks, which have shown superb clinical results. Finally, we will recommend an evidence-based program that avoids parenteral narcotics and facilitates rapid discharge home without readmissions for pain-related complaints.

Optimizing Intraoperative Blood Management for One-Stage Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Effective blood management strategies are a major determinant of successful outcomes after one-stage bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA). Proper patient selection with preoperative optimization and intra- and postoperative interventions can reduce transfusion risk and associated morbidity in these patients.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate intraoperative blood management modalities based on three keystone questions: (1) What is the role of the anesthesiologist?, (2) Which are the surgeon-dependent strategies?, and (3) Is there any place for pharmacologic interventions?

METHODS

We searched the established electronic literature database MEDLINE. After critical appraisal, 94 studies were deemed eligible from which to draw documented evidence.

RESULTS

A number of blood-conserving methods are currently implemented in patients undergoing one-stage BTKA. Among them, regional anesthesia, tourniquet use, and tourniquet deflation after wound closure, femoral canal sparing or femoral canal plugging, avoidance of drains, and tranexamic acid use were the intraoperative strategies with documented efficacy in blood conservation.

CONCLUSION

Combined proper intraoperative anesthesiologic, surgical, and pharmacologic interventions reduce blood loss and need for transfusion in BTKA patients. However, contemporary relevant literature is lacking evidence-based guidelines.

The effect of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents on fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue: An in vitro and in vivo study

Objectives

The aims of this study were to determine whether the administration of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents affect the proliferation, viability, and expression of markers involved in the fibrotic development of the fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue in vitro, and to evaluate the effect of the agents on arthrofibrosis prevention in vivo.

Methods

Dexamethasone, diclofenac, and decorin, in different concentrations, were employed to treat fibroblasts from arthrofibrotic tissue (AFib). Cell proliferation was measured by DNA quantitation, and viability was analyzed by Live/Dead staining. The levels of procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and procollagen type III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP) were evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. In addition, the expressions of fibrotic markers were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Fibroblasts isolated from healthy tissue (Fib) served as control. Further, a rabbit model of joint contracture was used to evaluate the antifibrotic effect of the three different agents.

Results

Dexamethasone maintained the viability and promoted the proliferation of AFib. Diclofenac decreased the viability and inhibited the cell proliferation during the first week of cultivation. However, decorin inhibited AFib proliferation and downregulated the expressions of fibrotic markers. Additionally, decorin could improve the flexion contracture angle and inhibit the deposition of interstitial matrix components in the rabbit joint model.

Conclusion

Decorin decreased the expression of myofibroblast markers in AFib, inhibited the proliferation of AFib, and prevented the initial procedure of arthrofibrosis in vivo, suggesting that decorin could be a promising treatment to inhibit the development of arthrofibrosis.Cite this article: X. Tang, S. Teng, M. Petri, C. Krettek, C. Liu, M. Jagodzinski. The effect of anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic agents on fibroblasts obtained from arthrofibrotic tissue: An in vitro and in vivo study. Bone Joint Res 2018;7:213-222. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.73.BJR-2017-0219.R2.

Perioperative adjuvant corticosteroids for postoperative analgesia in knee arthroplasty

Background and purpose - Immediate postoperative pain management offered in knee arthroplasty is suboptimal in up to one-third of patients resulting in high opiate consumption and delayed discharge. In this meta-analysis we investigate the analgesic effect and safety of perioperative adjuvant corticosteroids in knee arthroplasty. Methods - Databases Medline, Embase, and Central were searched for randomized studies comparing the analgesic effect of adjuvant perioperative corticosteroids in knee arthroplasty. Our primary outcome was pain score at 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included pain at 12, 48, and 72 hours, opiate consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting, infection, and discharge time. Systemic (intravenous) and local (intra-articular) corticosteroids were analyzed separately. Results - 14 randomized controlled trials (1,396 knees) were included. Mean corticosteroid dosages were predominantly 50-75mg oral prednisolone equivalents for both systemic and local routes. Systemic corticosteroids demonstrated statistically significant and clinically modest reductions in pain at 12 hours by -1.1 points (95%CI -2.2 to 0.02), 24 hours by -1.3 points (CI -2.3 to -0.26) and 48 hours by -0.4 points (CI -0.67 to -0.04). Local corticosteroids did not reduce pain. Opiate consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting, infection, or time till discharge were similar between groups. Interpretation - Corticosteroids modestly reduce pain postoperatively at 12 and 24 hours when used systemically without any increase in associated risks for dosages between 50 and 75 mg oral prednisolone equivalents.

Preoperative methylprednisolone does not reduce loss of knee-extension strength after total knee arthroplastyA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 61 patients

Background and purpose - Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) face challenges related to postoperative reduction in knee-extension strength. We evaluated whether inhibition of the inflammatory response by a single preoperative dose of methylprednisolone (MP) reduces the pronounced loss of knee-extension strength at discharge after fast-track TKA. Patients and methods - 70 patients undergoing elective unilateral TKA were randomized (1:1) to preoperative intravenous (IV) MP 125 mg (group MP) or isotonic saline IV (group C). All procedures were performed under spinal anesthesia without tourniquet, and with a standardized multimodal analgesic regime. The primary outcome was change in knee-extension strength from baseline to 48 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were knee joint circumference, functional performance using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, pain during the aforementioned tests, rescue analgesic requirements, and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) changes. Results - 61 patients completed the follow-up. The loss in quadriceps muscle strength was similar between groups; group MP 1.04 (0.22-1.91) Nm/kg (-89%) vs. group C 1.02 (0.22-1.57) Nm/kg (-88%). Also between-group differences were similar for knee circumference, TUG test, and pain scores. MP reduced the inflammatory response (CRP) at 24 hours postoperatively; group MP 33 (IQR 21-50) mg/L vs. group C 72 (IQR 58-92) mg/L (p < 0.001), and 48 hours postoperatively; group MP 83 (IQR 56-125) mg/L vs. group C 192 (IQR 147-265) mg/L (p < 0.001), respectively. Interpretation - Preoperative systemic administration of MP 125 mg did not reduce the pronounced loss of knee-extension strength or other functional outcomes at discharge after fast-track TKA despite a reduced systemic inflammatory response.

Preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids can reduce postoperative acute pain following total knee arthroplasty: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The ability of preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids to control pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been examined in many studies, but it remains controversial. Therefore, we undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids for postoperative pain management after TKA.

METHODS

We systematically searched RCTs from electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Wanfang Database, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database. The outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after TKA; the occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV); blood glucose at 6 and 24 hours after TKA; and the occurrence of infection.

RESULTS

Of the identified studies, a total of 11 RCTs involving 1000 patients (glucocorticoids = 501, control = 499) were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with a placebo, preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids significantly reduced VAS scores at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours, with decreases of 3.63 points, 6.81 points, 10.40 points, and 3.15 points, respectively, on a 110-point VAS. Moreover, intravenous glucocorticoids were associated with significant decreases of 19.4% and 16.8% in the occurrence of nausea and vomiting, respectively. However, intravenous glucocorticoids were also associated with increased blood glucose with no clinical importance at 6 hours after TKA. No significant difference was found in the occurrence of infection or in blood glucose at 24 hours after TKA.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative intravenous glucocorticoids are an effective and safe method to reduce postoperative pain and PONV in patients following TKA. More studies are necessary to identify the optimal dose and type of glucocorticoids for maximal pain control.

Perioperative systemic steroid for rapid recovery in total knee and hip arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Perioperative systemic steroid administration for rapid recovery in total knee and hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA) is an important and controversial topic. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the overall benefits and harms of perioperative systemic steroid in patients undergoing TKA and THA.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed, OVID, and Web of Science databases, and a systematic approach was carried out starting from the PRISMA recommendations. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. The risk of bias was evaluated according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions version. Data were extracted and meta-analyzed or qualitatively synthesized for all the outcomes.

RESULTS

Data were extracted from 11 trials involving 774 procedures. Meta-analysis showed that high-dose systemic steroid (dexamethasone > 0.1 mg/kg) rather than low dose is effective to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting and postoperative acute pain (within 24 h). In addition, systemic steroid is associated within faster functional rehabilitation and greater inflammation control. On the other hand, systemic steroid is associated with a higher level of postoperative serum glucose on the operation day. The complications between groups are similarly low.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that by providing lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and less postoperative acute pain, high-dose systemic steroid plays a critical role in rapid recovery to TKA and THA. The preliminary results also show the superior possibility of systemic steroid in functional rehabilitation and inflammation control. More large, high-quality studies that investigate the safety and dose-response relationship are necessary.

Can intravenous steroid administration reduce postoperative pain scores following total knee arthroplasty?: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was to evaluate whether intravenous steroids would result in reduced acute pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, were searched to identify articles published from database inception to July 2016. RCTs that compared the effects of intravenous steroids with the effects of placebo among patients undergoing TKA were included in this meta-analysis. The primary outcomes were visual analogue scale (VAS) scores after 12, 24, and 48 hours of rest and PONV incidence. The secondary outcomes were blood glucose levels and incidence of infection. We calculated the risk ratio (RR) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and the mean difference (MD) with its corresponding 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Seven clinical trials involving 434 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that intravenous steroids were associated with decreased VAS scores after 24 hours (MD = -10.21, 95%CI = -18.80 to -1.63, P = .020) and 48 hours (MD = -2.60, 95%CI = -4.70 to -0.50, P = .015) of rest. Moreover, intravenous steroids were also associated with decreased risk of nausea (RR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.44-0.77, P = .000) and vomiting (RR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.24-0.88, P = .019). However, intravenous steroids were also associated with increased blood glucose levels. No significant difference in the risk of infection was identified between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous steroids may be associated with decreased pain intensity and decreased risk of nausea and vomiting during the early period following TKA. However, evidence supporting its use is limited by the low quality of and variations in dosing regimens between the included RCTs. Thus, more high-quality RCTs are needed to identify the optimal drug administration intervals for maximal pain control.

Perioperative intravenous glucocorticoids can decrease postoperative nausea and vomiting and pain in total joint arthroplasty: A meta-analysis and trial sequence analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis aimed to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of intravenous glucocorticoids for reducing pain intensity and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, and Google databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intravenous glucocorticoids versus no intravenous glucocorticoids or sham for patients undergoing TJA. Outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain at 12, 24, and 48 hours; the occurrence of PONV; length of hospital stay; the occurrence of infection; and blood glucose levels after surgery. We calculated risk ratios (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% CI for continuous outcomes. Trial sequential analysis was also used to verify the pooled results.

RESULTS

Thirteen clinical trials involving 821 patients were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that intravenous steroids can decrease VAS at 12 hours (WMD = -8.54, 95% CI -11.55 to -5.53, P = 0.000; I = 35.1%), 24 hours (WMD = -7.48, 95% CI -13.38 to -1.59, P = 0.013; I = 91.8%), and 48 hours (WMD = -1.90, 95% CI -3.75 to -0.05, P = 0.044; I = 84.5%). Intravenous steroids can decrease the occurrence of PONV (RR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.44-0.73, P = 0.000; I = 33.1%). There was no significant difference in the length of hospital stay, occurrence of infection, and blood glucose levels after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous glucocorticoids not only alleviate early pain intensity but also decrease PONV after TJA. More high-quality RCTs are required to determine the safety of glucocorticoids before making final recommendations.

Safety of Perioperative Glucocorticoids in Elective Noncardiac Surgery

Background

Glucocorticoids are increasingly used perioperatively, principally to prevent nausea and vomiting. Safety concerns focus on the potential for hyperglycemia and increased infection. The authors hypothesized that glucocorticoids predispose to such adverse outcomes in a dose-dependent fashion after elective noncardiac surgery.

Methods

The authors conducted a systematic literature search of the major medical databases from their inception to April 2016. Randomized glucocorticoid trials in adults specifically reporting on a safety outcome were included and meta-analyzed with Peto odds ratio method or the quality effects model. Subanalyses were performed according to a dexamethasone dose equivalent of low (less than 8 mg), medium (8 to 16 mg), and high (more than 16 mg). The primary endpoints of any wound infection and peak perioperative glucose concentrations were subject to meta-regression.

Results

Fifty-six trials from 18 countries were identified, predominantly assessing dexamethasone. Glucocorticoids did not impact on any wound infection (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.6 to 1.2) but did result in a clinically unimportant increase in peak perioperative glucose concentration (weighted mean difference, 20.0 mg/dl; CI, 11.4 to 28.6; P &lt; 0.001 or 1.1 mM; CI, 0.6 to 1.6). Glucocorticoids reduced peak postoperative C-reactive protein concentrations (weighted mean difference, −22.1 mg/l; CI, −31.7 to −12.5; P &lt; 0.001), but other adverse outcomes and length of stay were unchanged. No dose–effect relationships were apparent.

Conclusions

The evidence at present does not highlight any safety concerns with respect to the use of perioperative glucocorticoids and subsequent infection, hyperglycemia, or other adverse outcomes. Nevertheless, collated trials lacked sufficient surveillance and power to detect clinically important differences in complications such as wound infection.

Perioperative Glucocorticoid Administration Improves Elbow Motion in Terrible Triad Injuries

PURPOSE

Among patients who undergo surgical treatment of terrible triad elbow injuries (TTEI), we hypothesized that those who received perioperative glucocorticoid (GC) therapy would have improved postoperative pain and range of motion (ROM) and a similar complication rate compared with patients who did not receive GC therapy.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 26 patients who underwent surgical treatment of TTEI from 2009 to 2015. Thirteen patients received a single intraoperative dose of 10 mg intravenous dexamethasone followed with a 6-day oral methylprednisolone taper course (GC group), and 13 did not (control group). After surgery, patients were placed in an orthosis at 90° flexion with the forearm in pronation for 2 weeks, after which ROM was initiated. Patients were seen in clinic at 2, 6, 12, and 24 weeks after surgery, at which time numeric pain scale scores and ROM data were collected and any complications were noted.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the GC group had a greater flexion-extension arc of motion at 24 weeks (132.5° vs 105.5°); significant differences were not found at earlier time points. Supination measurements were significantly greater for the GC group at every time point with a difference at final follow-up of 23.2° (61.0° vs. 84.2°). There were 5 complications in the control group (35.8%), 3 of which required additional surgery, and 3 complications in the GC group (23.1%), 1 of which required another surgery. No postoperative infections were found in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative glucocorticoid administration is associated with improved ROM after surgical treatment of TTEI. Flexion-extension, pronosupination arc of motion, and overall supination were significantly improved. Postoperative pain scores and complication rates were similar between GC and control groups.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Towards an understanding of the painful total knee: what is the role of patient biology?

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains the treatment of choice for end-stage osteoarthritis of the knee. With an aging population, the demand for TKA continues to increase, placing a significant burden on a health care system that must function with limited resources. Although generally accepted as a successful procedure, 15-30 % of patients report persistent pain following TKA. Classically, pain generators have been divided into intra-articular and extra-articular causes. However, there remains a significant subset of patients for whom pain remains unexplained. Recent studies have questioned the role of biology (inflammation) in the persistence of pain following TKA. This article aims to serve as a review of previously identified causes of knee pain following TKA, as well as to explore the potential role of biology as a predictor of pain following knee replacement surgery.

Severe Cytokine-Release Syndrome after T Cell-Replete Peripheral Blood Haploidentical Donor Transplantation Is Associated with Poor Survival and Anti-IL-6 Therapy Is Safe and Well Tolerated

Use of high-dose post-transplantation cyclophosphamide for graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis has expanded the use of unmanipulated haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation. The immediate post-transplantation course in T cell-replete peripheral blood haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (haplo-HCT) is often complicated by symptoms resembling cytokine-release syndrome (CRS), previously described in recipients of targeted cellular therapeutics. However, we know little about the incidence and impact of CRS on outcomes in these patients. To understand this syndrome in haplo-HCT patients, we reviewed data from 75 consecutive patients who received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized T cell-replete peripheral blood haplo-HCT at a single center. Using CRS criteria described in recipients of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, we found 65 of 75 (87%) met criteria for CRS, although most cases were only mild (grades 1 or 2). However, 9 patients (12%) experienced severe (grades 3 or 4) CRS. Median survival was 2.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], .43 to 5.8) in patients with severe CRS, compared with 13.1 months (95% CI, 8.1 to not reached) in patients with mild CRS. Transplantation-related mortality was worse in the severe CRS cohort with a hazard ratio of 4.59 (95% CI, 1.43 to 14.67) compared with that in the mild CRS cohort. Severe CRS patients had a significant delay in median time for neutrophil engraftment. Serum IL-6 levels were measured in 10 haplo-HCT patients and were elevated in the early post-transplantation setting. Seven patients with CRS were treated with tocilizumab, resulting in a complete resolution of their CRS symptoms. Severe CRS represents a potential complication of peripheral blood haplo-HCT and is associated with worse outcomes. Anti-IL-6 receptor therapy is associated with rapid resolution of the CRS symptoms.

The Effect of Perioperative Corticosteroids in Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Prospective Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Surgery produces a rapid rise in interleukin 6 (IL-6) which may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis and medical complications. Perioperative corticosteroids suppress IL-6 release in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. This study evaluates the effects of a perioperative corticosteroid regimen on IL-6 formation, thrombogenesis, fibrinolysis, and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing unilateral, uncemented, total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

Twenty-seven patients (14 placebo and 13 study) were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The study group received 20 mg of prednisone orally followed by 2 doses of intravenous hydrocortisone, each 8 hours apart. Blood was drawn at several time points for IL-6, prothrombin fragment 1.2, and plasmin-alpha-2-antiplasmin complex, a marker of fibrinolysis. In-hospital visual analog pain (visual analog scale) scores, patient-controlled analgesia use, and ability to climb stairs were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean serum IL-6 levels at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively were significantly lower for the study group, whereas serum prothrombin fragment 1.2 and plasmin-alpha-2-antiplasmin were not statistically different at any study time point. Average pain scores were similar (P > .05), but study group experience less severe pain (P < .01) and less patient-controlled analgesia (P = .02). At 3 months, 4 patients in the placebo and 1 patient in the study group had difficulty going up and down staircases (P = .08).

CONCLUSION

The use of corticosteroids was associated with a statistically significant decrease in IL-6 at 6 and 24 hours postoperatively but did not affect thrombogenic markers. The study group had improved postoperative analgesia and a trend toward improved functional outcome at 3 months postoperatively.

Does Chronic Corticosteroid Use Increase Risks of Readmission, Thromboembolism, and Revision After THA?

BACKGROUND

Systemic corticosteroids are commonly used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, but they can be associated with various musculoskeletal problems and disorders. There currently is a limited amount of data describing the postoperative complications of THA associated specifically with chronic corticosteroid use.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

For chronic corticosteroid users undergoing THA, we asked: (1) What is the risk of hospital readmission at 30 and 90 days after surgery? (2) What is the risk of venous thromboembolism at 30 and 90 days after surgery? (3) What is the risk of revision hip arthroplasty at 12 and 24 months after surgery?

METHODS

We identified patients in the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System who underwent primary THA between January 2003 and December 2010. This database provides hospital discharge abstracts for all admissions in the state of New York each year. We used propensity scores to three-to-one match the 402 chronic corticosteroid users with a comparison cohort of 1206 patients according to age, sex, race, comorbidity score, year of surgery, and hip osteonecrosis. The risk of each outcome was compared between chronic corticosteroid users and the matched cohort. Because multiple comparisons were made, we considered p less than 0.008 as statistically significant.

RESULTS

Readmission was more common for corticosteroid users at 30 days (odds ratio [OR], 1.45; 95% CI, 1.14-1.85; p = 0.003) and 90 days (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.09-1.73; p = 0.007). Venous thromboembolism was not more frequent in corticosteroid users at 30 days (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.08-5.26; p = 0.031) or 90 days (OR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.03-3.53; p = 0.039). Revision arthroplasty was more common in corticosteroid users at 12 months (OR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.35-4.59; p = 0.004), but not 24 months (OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.19-3.50; p = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

After THA, chronic corticosteroid use is associated with an increased risk of readmission at 30 and 90 days and revision hip arthroplasty at 12 months in corticosteroid users. Patients and providers should discuss these risks before surgery. Insurers should consider incorporating chronic corticosteroid use as a comorbidity in bundled payments for THA, since this patient population is more likely to return to their provider for care during the postoperative period.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Methylprednisolone Does Not Reduce Persistent Pain after Cardiac Surgery

Background

Persistent incisional pain is common after cardiac surgery and is believed to be in part related to inflammation and poorly controlled acute pain. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid with substantial antiinflammatory and analgesic properties and is thus likely to ameliorate persistent surgical pain. Therefore, the authors tested the primary hypothesis that patients randomized to methylprednisolone have less persistent incisional pain than those given placebo.

Methods

One thousand forty-three patients having cardiopulmonary bypass for cardiac surgery via a median sternotomy were included in this substudy of Steroids in Cardiac Surgery (SIRS) trial. Patients were randomized to 500 mg intraoperative methylprednisolone or placebo. Incisional pain was assessed at 30 days and 6 months after surgery, and the potential risk factors were also evaluated.

Results

Methylprednisolone administration did not reduce pain at 30 days or persistent incisional pain at 6 months, which occurred in 78 of 520 patients (15.7%) in the methylprednisolone group and in 88 of 523 patients (17.8%) in the placebo group. The odds ratio for methylprednisolone was 0.93 (95% CI, 0.79 to 1.09, P = 0.37). Furthermore, there was no difference in worst pain and average pain in the last 24 h, pain interference with daily life, or use of pain medicine at 6 months. Younger age, female sex, and surgical infections were associated with the development of persistent incisional pain.

Conclusions

Intraoperative methylprednisolone administration does not reduce persistent incisional pain at 6 months in patients recovering from cardiac surgery.

Effects of steroids on thrombogenic markers in patients undergoing unilateral total knee arthroplasty: a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains an important complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Systemic thrombin generation starts perioperatively. Inflammation, characterized by a rise in interleukin-6 (IL6), initiates the coagulation cascade, but low-dose steroids can reduce post-TKA IL6 levels. This double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study enrolled 30 patients undergoing unilateral TKA to assess the effect of perioperative steroids on serum prothrombin fragment (PF1.2), a marker of thrombin generation, and plasmin-alpha-2-antiplasmin complex (PAP), a marker of fibrinolysis. Study patients received 100 mg of intravenous hydrocortisone 2 h prior to surgery, and controls received normal saline. Blood samples, drawn pre-incision and at 4 h post tourniquet release, were assayed for PF1.2 and PAP. The study group had significantly lower mean PF1.2 at 4 h compared to controls (616 ± 358 pMol/L vs. 936 ± 332 pMol/L, p = 0.037). The mean rise in PF1.2 in the control group was significantly greater compared to the study group (672 ± 173 pMol/L vs. 350 ± 211 pMol/L, p < 0.001). Mean PAP was higher in the study group at 4 h (1639 ± 823 µg/L vs. 1087 ± 536 µg/L), but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.07). These results may have clinical implications in terms of postoperative VTE risk and management.

Pain after knee arthroplasty: an unresolved issue

PURPOSE

Despite the recent advances in the understanding of pain mechanisms and the introduction of new drugs and new techniques in the postoperative management, pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is still an unresolved issue. It affects the quality of life and rehabilitation of an important percentage of patients undergoing TKA. The aim of this narrative review was to give an overview on pain mechanisms and multimodal pain management.

METHODS

A review of all peer-reviewed articles on pain after knee arthroplasty was performed by two reviewers. Recent articles on incisional pain mechanisms were included because of their importance in the understanding of postsurgical pain. Search was performed in Pubmed, Cochrane and Google Scholar data bases.

RESULTS

Postsurgical pain mechanisms are based on both local and systemic inflammatory reactions. Peri-operative pain management starts with the anaesthetic technique and resides on a multimodal analgesia regimen. New concepts, drugs and techniques have shown their efficacy in reducing the severity of acute postoperative pain and the risk of developing chronic pain after TKA.

CONCLUSION

This narrative review offers a clear overview of pain mechanism after knee arthroplasty and an understanding on how multimodal pain management can reduce the intensity and duration of pain after knee arthroplasty.

Association of obesity with inflammation and pain after total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of obesity is increasing, and obesity often leads to degenerative joint disease requiring total hip arthroplasty (THA). Obesity is a proinflammatory state associated with an increase in chronic, low-grade inflammatory response. As such, it may augment the postoperative inflammatory response, which has been associated with postoperative pain and complications.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We determined whether severity of obesity was associated with (1) severity of inflammatory response, as measured by the in vivo circulating levels of cytokines and ex vivo functional reactivity of mononuclear blood cells, and (2) severity of pain, as measured by verbal pain scores and analgesic consumption, in the first 24 hours after THA.

METHODS

We studied 60 patients (20 normal weight, 20 overweight, 20 obese) undergoing elective primary unilateral THA in this prospective cross-sectional study. Blood samples were collected for C-reactive protein and cytokine levels, including IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), from patients before and 24 hours after surgery. Cytokine response of whole blood was evaluated ex vivo with or without two standard activators, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate and lipopolysaccharide, using standardized blood sample from patients at 24 hours. These standard immune activators are implicated in the inflammatory response to gram-negative infection, translocation of microbial products, pathophysiology of septic shock syndrome in human, and tumor promotion. Pain response was gauged using verbal pain scores (on a 0- to 10-point scale, where 0 = no pain and 10 = worst pain) at rest and with activity at 24 hours after surgery and analgesic consumption of volume of epidural analgesic solution for the first 24 hours after surgery.

RESULTS

No correlation was found between BMI and postoperative spontaneous circulating cytokine levels. However, after activation of blood leukocytes with lipopolysaccharide, there was a significant positive correlation between the BMI and IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels (r = 0.26-0.32; p = 0.03, p = 0.03, and p = 0.01, respectively), suggesting priming of the innate immune system in obesity and potential for excessive postoperative inflammatory response. Obesity was not associated with increased pain or analgesic consumption in the first 24 hours after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with a proinflammatory state after THA as demonstrated by enhanced cytokine reactivity. Larger studies exploring the specific impact of obesity and inflammation on surgical outcomes, including pain, are warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Current and emerging therapeutic strategies for preventing inflammation and aggrecanase-mediated cartilage destruction in arthritis

Arthritis is a multifactorial disease for which current therapeutic intervention with high efficacy remains challenging. Arthritis predominately affects articular joints, and cartilage deterioration and inflammation are key characteristics. Current therapeutics targeting inflammatory responses often cause severe side effects in patients because of the systemic inhibition of cytokines or other global immunosuppressive activities. Furthermore, a lack of primary response or failure to sustain a response to treatment through acquired drug resistance is an ongoing concern. Nevertheless, treatments such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, biological agents, and corticosteroids have revealed promising outcomes by decreasing pain and inflammation in patients and in some cases reducing radiographic progression of the disease. Emerging and anecdotal therapeutics with anti-inflammatory activity, alongside specific inhibitors of the A Disintegrin-like And Metalloproteinase domain with Thrombospondin-1 repeats (ADAMTS) cartilage-degrading aggrecanases, provide promising additions to current arthritis treatment strategies. Thus, it is paramount that treatment strategies be optimized to increase efficacy, reduce debilitating side effects, and improve the quality of life of patients with arthritis. Here, we review the current strategies that attempt to slow or halt the progression of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, providing an up-to-date summary of pharmaceutical treatment strategies and side effects. Importantly, we highlight their potential to indirectly regulate ADAMTS aggrecanase activity through their targeting of inflammatory mediators, thus providing insight into a mechanism by which they might inhibit cartilage destruction to slow or halt radiographic progression of the disease. We also contrast these with anecdotal or experimental administration of statins that could equally regulate ADAMTS aggrecanase activity and are available to arthritis sufferers worldwide. Finally, we review the current literature regarding the development of synthetic inhibitors directed toward the aggrecanases ADAMTS4 and ADAMTS5, a strategy that might directly inhibit cartilage destruction and restore joint function in both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Perioperative morbidity and mortality following bilateral total hip arthroplasty

There is concern about safety of bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA).This study aims to compare in-hospital complication rates between unilateral, simultaneous and staged bilateral THAs. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2002-2010 was used. Patients and complications were identified using ICD-9-CM codes. In multivariate analysis, bilateral THA had higher risk of systemic complications (Odds ratio (OR): 2.1, P<0.001) compared to unilateral procedure, whereas no significant difference existed between simultaneous and staged bilateral THAs. The rate of local complications was higher in bilateral versus unilateral (4.96% versus 4.54%, P=0.009) and in staged versus simultaneous bilateral THAs (OR: 1.75, P=0.05). Bilateral THA increases risk of systemic complications compared to unilateral surgery and simultaneous bilateral THA appears to be safer than staging during one hospitalization.

Preemptive low-dose dexamethasone reduces postoperative emesis and pain after TKA: a randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Dexamethasone is a potent analgesic and antiemetic. However, the benefit of dexamethasone after TKA is unclear, as is the efficacy in a current multimodal regime.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We determined (1) whether the addition of dexamethasone to a protocol including ramosetron further reduces postoperative emesis compared with ramosetron alone; (2) whether it reduces postoperative pain; and (3) whether it increases the risk for wound complications in a current multimodal regime after TKA.

METHODS

We randomized 269 patients undergoing TKAs to receive dexamethasone (10 mg) 1 hour before surgery and ramosetron immediately after surgery (Dexa-Ra group, n = 135), or ramosetron alone (Ra group, n = 134). We recorded the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), severity of nausea, incidence of antiemetic requirement, complete response, pain level, and opioid consumption. Patients were assessed 0 to 6, 6 to 24, 24 to 48, and 48 to 72 hours postoperatively. In addition, patients were evaluated for wound complications and periprosthetic joint infections at a minimum of 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

The Dexa-Ra group had a lower incidence of PONV during the entire 72-hour evaluation period and experienced less severe nausea for the first 6 hours after TKA, although not between 6 to 72 hours. Overall use of a rescue antiemetic was less frequent, and complete response was more frequent in the Dexa-Ra group. Patients in the Dexa-Ra group experienced lower pain and consumed less opioids during the 6- to 24-hour period and during the overall study period. No differences were found in wound complications between the groups, and each group had one case of periprosthetic joint infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who received prophylactic dexamethasone in addition to ramosetron had reduced postoperative emesis and pain without increased risks for wound complications, compared with patients who received ramosetron alone in patients managed using a multimodal regimen after TKA.

Consensus statement from the consensus conference on bilateral total knee arthroplasty group

BACKGROUND

Controversy exists regarding many aspects of decision making pertaining to same-day versus staged bilateral TKA (BTKAs), including patient selection, perioperative management decisions, and other important choices.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

In the absence of suitable randomized trials, we sought to determine areas of consensus among national experts on the following questions: (1) What are the comparative risks of same-day BTKAs compared with unilateral TKA (UTKA) and staged BTKAs? (2) Who should be considered an appropriate candidate for same-day BTKAs? (3) What constitutes appropriate workup and perioperative management for BTKAs? (4) What is the optimal time between procedures if same-day BTKAs are not deemed appropriate? (5) Are there orthopaedic or rehabilitation considerations for BTKAs that might outweigh medical contraindications?

METHODS

In the setting of a consensus conference of national experts in orthopaedic surgery, anesthesiology, perioperative medicine, and epidemiology, the major questions surrounding same-day BTKAs were addressed by using an extensive literature review and the modified Delphi process. The process concluded with a meeting of participants and formulation of consensus statements.

RESULTS

Eighty-one percent of participants agreed that BTKAs are more invasive and complex procedures associated with increased risk for perioperative adverse events compared with UTKA in an unselected group of patients. The consensus group agreed that physicians and hospitals should consider using more restrictive patient selection criteria and exclude those with a modified cardiac risk index greater than 3 to mitigate the potentially increased risk. The majority of the group agreed that perioperative assessment and management should reflect the higher level of acuity of same-day BTKAs. Eighty-one percent of participants agreed that if a patient is not deemed a candidate for same-day BTKAs, a second TKA should be scheduled no sooner than 3 months after the first. The entire group agreed that when there is a conflict between the orthopaedic need and the medical adequacy of same-day BTKAs, the medical concern for the patient's safety should prevail over the orthopaedic need.

CONCLUSIONS

Experts perceived that same-day BTKAs increase medical risk, and thus a systematic approach to the management of patients should be taken to minimize complications.