Incidence and Economic Burden of Intertrochanteric Fracture: A Medicare Claims Database Analysis

Who breaks their hip? A decade of traumatic hip fracture data

Aims & objectives

Hip fractures lead to significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, particularly in elderly populations. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these fractures is crucial for developing targeted prevention strategies and counseling patients.

Methods

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was utilized to identify a cohort of 25,068 hip fractures from 2013 to 2022. The inclusion criteria mandated classification as a lower trunk fracture and explicit mention of hip fracture in the narrative. Patient age, race, sex, incident location, the time of year, and associated consumer products were compared using 95% confidence intervals and Chi-Squared tests of independence.

Results

A total of 25,068 hip fracture patients were included in this study. Females were more likely to fracture their hip (P < .001) representing 68.4% (95% CI 67.8%-69.0%) of all fractures. Patients were most likely to injure themselves at home (P < .001), accounting for 62.0 % (95% CI 61.4%-62.6%) of fractures. Falls to the floor represented 36.0 % (95% CI 35.4%-36.6%) of fractures, while fractures related to beds, stairs, and chairs emerged as other prevalent mechanisms at 11.2% (95% CI 10.8%-11.6%), 7.9% (95% CI 7.5%-8.2%), and 5.4% (95% CI 5.1%-5.7%), respectively. In the 50-60 age group, stairs present a prominent risk, representing 12.4% (95% CI 10.6%-14.5%) of fractures. Younger individuals suffered fractures most commonly due to high energy activities, such as falls from ladders, bicycles, and stairs (P < .001).

Conclusion

While falls remain the chief cause of hip fractures, many of these injuries stem from overlooked mechanisms. The heightened risk associated with falls from beds and chairs in the elderly, stair-related injuries in middle-aged individuals, and high-force modalities in younger people, highlights the necessity for tailored preventive measures. Providers should counsel their patients on risk reduction measures within the home, while Medicare and other insurers must work to expand coverage for these same measures.

Trends in hip fracture surgery in the United States from 2016 to 2021: patient characteristics, clinical management, and outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Hip fractures are a serious health concern and a major contributor to healthcare resource utilisation. We aimed to investigate nationwide trends in the USA in patient characteristics and outcomes in patients after hip fracture repair surgery.

METHODS

From the Premier Healthcare dataset, we extracted patient encounters for surgical hip fracture repair from 2016 to 2021. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, complications, and anaesthetic and surgical details were analysed. Cochran-Armitage trend tests and simple linear regression were used to determine trends.

RESULTS

We included 347 086 hip fracture repair encounters. Notable trends included the following: median patient age declined from 82 yr [interquartile range: 73-88 yr] to 81 yr [interquartile range: 73-88 yr], (P-value=0.002), the proportion of female patients decreased from 68% to 66.2% (P-value=0.019); internal fixation was the most common intervention initially, but with a declining percentage from 49.9% to 43.8% (P-value <0.001); in general, patients carried a greater comorbidity burden, with the proportion with three or more Elixhauser comorbidities increasing from 56.4% to 58.6% (P-value=0.006); general anaesthesia remained the most common anaesthetic technique, from 68.90% to 56.80% without a significant trend; per 1000 inpatient days, the most common complication remained acute renal failure; despite a higher comorbidity burden, no complication showed a statistically significant upward trend, and many showed downward trends.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the 6-yr period from 2016 to 2021, a majority of hip fracture repairs continued to be performed under general anaesthesia but with that percentage declining over time. Notable trends included a lower percentage of female patients, an increase in femoral neck fractures, a higher comorbidity burden among patients, and a decrease in complications.

Trends and epidemiology of lower trunk fractures in the super elderly population in the United States from 2011 to 2020

INTRODUCTION

Fractures of the lower trunk are among the most common fractures occurring in the elderly. Super elderly individuals (i.e., those 80 years of age and older) represent a growing segment of the population and are especially prone to these fractures. The contemporary epidemiology of lower trunk fractures in the super elderly population is incompletely described in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This descriptive epidemiology study used the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) to examine the incidence and recent trends of lower trunk fractures (i.e., fractures of the hip, pelvis, and lumbar spine) occurring among super elderly individuals in the United States (US) from 2011 to 2020. Annual, overall, and age-/sex-specific incidence rates (IRs) were analyzed. Average annual percent change (AAPC) estimates were calculated to indicate the magnitude/direction of trends in annual injury rates.

RESULTS

An estimated N=1,226,160 super elderly patients sustained lower trunk fractures over the 10-year study period for an overall IR of 100.2 per 10,000 person-years at-risk (PYR). Hip fractures accounted for the largest percentage of cases (IR=71.7 PYR), followed by lumbar spine fractures (IR=14.7), and pelvic fractures (IR=14.3). The incidence of lower trunk fractures among super elderly females (IR=121.5 PYR) was significantly greater than that of males (IR=65.7 PYR). The incidence of lower trunk fractures among nonagenarians and centenarians was significantly higher than that of octogenarians. Accounting for population growth yielded a significantly increasing annual incidence of lower trunk fractures in super elderly patients over the study period from 86.7 PYR in 2011 to 107.2 PYR in 2020 (AAPC=2.7, p<0.001). The annual incidence of both pelvic (AAPC=5.8) and lumbar spine (AAPC=6.9) fractures increased at a significantly higher rate than that of hip fractures (AAPC=1.4).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the annual incidence of lower trunk fractures in the oldest cohort of patients in the US (80+ years of age) increased significantly during the recent decade from 2011 to 2020, with pelvic and lumbar fractures in particular becoming increasingly common. Increased incidence rates highlight the need for future research aimed at optimizing outcomes and quality of life in this frail and ever-growing segment of the population.

Impact of COVID-19 public health restrictions on fall-related hip fracture hospitalizations: An interrupted time series analysis

PURPOSE

There is limited evidence regarding the impact of public health restrictions on hip fracture hospitalization by place of fracture occurrence. This study aimed to examine the impact of COVID-19 public health restrictions on fall-related hip fracture hospitalization rates by place of occurrence.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted using hospitalization data in New South Wales, Australia, between January 2014 and June 2022. Older adults aged ≥65 years admitted to hospital following a fall-related hip fracture. An interrupted time-series analysis using autoregressive integrated moving average models evaluated the impact of public health restrictions on fall-related hip fracture hospitalization by place of fracture occurrence (home/residence, residential aged care facility (RACF), or away from usual residence).

RESULTS

The mean observed fall-related hip fracture hospitalization rate during COVID-19 public health restrictions (36.3 per 100,000 people per month) was 13.4 % lower than the forecasted rate (41.1 per 100,000 people per month). The mean observed hospitalization rates for fall-related hip fractures at home/residence, at a RACF, and away from the usual residence were 3.8 %, 18.5 %, and 40.1 % lower than the forecasted rates, respectively. Level changes in the fall-related hip fracture hospitalization rates at RACFs and away from usual residences were -0.9 per 100,000 people per month (95 % CI -1.6 to -0.2) and -1.7 per 100,000 people per month (95 % CI -2.5 to -0.9), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a decline in fall-related hip fracture hospitalization rates among older adults, where the fracture occurred at RACFs and away from a person's usual residence during COVID-19 public health restrictions.

Quantitative ROI differences for assessment of occult intertrochanteric extension of greater trochanteric fractures on pelvis CT

PURPOSE

To determine if difference in Hounsfield Units (HU) of the medullary bone between the injured and non-injured femurs in patients with greater trochanteric fractures is associated with occult intertrochanteric (IT) extension.

METHODS

Retrospective review was performed of 81 patients (age range 54-102, 54 females and 27 males) who underwent CT and subsequent MRI after identification of a greater trochanteric fracture without evidence of IT extension on radiography and/or CT. Hounsfield units of the injured and non-injured femurs on CT were recorded at the level of the base of the greater trochanter centrally (ROI1) and the level of the upper border of the lesser trochanter posteromedially (ROI2). The difference between the injured and non-injured femur for each ROI1 and ROI2 were calculated. Absence or presence, and if present, extent of IT extension was assessed on MRI. Analysis was performed to determine if there is correlation of difference in density with presence, and extent of occult IT fractures.

RESULTS

81 cases met inclusion criteria, 14 (17%) had no IT extension, 11 (14%) had less than 50% IT extension and 56 (69%) had 50% or greater IT extension. There was statistical significance between presence and absence of IT extension between the injured and non-injured femur for ROI1 (HU) no IT extension median (IQR): 18.8(4-40), ROI1 (HU) present IT extension median (IQR): 65.5(46-90) p < .0001, and for ROI2 no IT extension median (IQR): 3(-8-25.5) and ROI2 present IT extension 51(40.5-76), p < .0001. There was statistical significance of the extent of IT extension: ROI1 less than 50% IT extension median (IQR): 37.5(27.5-57), ROI1 50% or greater IT extension median (IQR): 72.3(53.5-91.3), p < .0001, and for ROI2 less than 50% IT extension median (IQR): 17.5(8-49), and ROI2 50% or greater IT extension median (IQR): 55.8(45.3-81.5), p < .0001. A threshold ROI2 difference of 50 HU resulted in specificity of 92% and sensitivity 60.7% of for IT extension 50% or greater.

CONCLUSION

Patients presenting with greater trochanteric fractures, an asymmetric increased density measured by ROI differences within the medullary space of the IT region between the injured and non-injured femur is associated with occult IT extension.

The Association between Glaucoma Severity and Hip Fractures in California Medicare Beneficiaries

PURPOSE

To examine the association between glaucoma severity and hip fractures in older adults.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

SUBJECTS

2019 California Medicare beneficiaries with Parts A & B coverage.

METHODS

Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the association between glaucoma severity (mild, moderate, and severe vs. no glaucoma) and hip fracture, after adjusting for age, sex, race and ethnicity, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score. A subgroup analysis was performed only in individuals with glaucoma to examine the odds of hip fracture for those with moderate and severe glaucoma compared to those with mild glaucoma.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The variations in the odds of hip fractures for patients with and without glaucoma and for patients with moderate and severe glaucoma compared to those with mild glaucoma.

RESULTS

Of the 2,717,346 beneficiaries in the study population, 220,662 (8.1%) had glaucoma. In multivariate regression analysis, those with mild (odds ratio [OR]: 0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78-0.88) and moderate glaucoma (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.84-0.92) had reduced odds of hip fracture compared to those with no glaucoma. There was no statistically significant association between severe versus no glaucoma and hip fracture (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.91-1.02). Among individuals with glaucoma, the odds of hip fracture were higher for those with moderate (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.99-1.15) and severe glaucoma (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.08-1.27), compared to those with mild glaucoma.

CONCLUSIONS

In the California Medicare population, the presence of glaucoma was associated with decreased likelihood of hip fracture. However, in those with glaucoma, increased glaucoma severity was associated with an increased likelihood of hip fracture. Potential mediating mechanisms requiring further study include fear of falls and physical inactivity in patients with glaucoma.

Intrarater and Interrater Reliability of Quantitative Ultrasound Speed of Sound by Trained Raters at the Distal Radius in Postmenopausal Women

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) performed at the distal radius shows potential as an effective tool for evaluating fracture risk, especially in postmenopausal women, but the reliability of this tool has not been reported in this patient population. This study investigated the within-day intrarater and interrater reliability of trained raters performing QUS measures at the distal radius of postmenopausal community-dwelling women.

METHODS

Eighteen women between the ages of 56 and 87 years were recruited from senior centers in the Greenville area of South Carolina and consented to participate. A QUS bone sonometer was used in this study; the trained raters performed 3 repeated speed of sound (SOS) measures at the nondominant radius of each participant on the same day. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated (model 3,1 for intrarater and 2,3 for interrater reliability) to determine the reliability within and between raters. In addition, we calculated the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the minimal detectable change at 95% confidence interval (MDC 95 ).

RESULTS

The within-day intrarater reliability was excellent for both physical therapist raters (ICC (3,1) ranging from 0.93 to 0.91). The SEM and MDC for the within-day intrarater reliability measures were small for both raters (SEM = 36.79-38.75 or 0.92%-0.97% of the pooled mean; MDC 95  = 101.99-107.40). The interrater reliability for SOS measurements using radial QUS was good with an ICC (2,3) of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.36-0.92) for 3 averaged measures. The SEM and MDC were larger for the interrater reliability measures (SEM = 62.79 or 1.57% of the pooled mean; MDC 95  = 174.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative ultrasound SOS measurement at the distal radius showed excellent within-day intrarater and good interrater (when 3 measures were averaged) reliability in community-dwelling postmenopausal women. The SEM and MDC 95 were also low for interrater reliability when a mean of 3 trials was used. This study is the first to demonstrate that this particular QUS device at the radius may be a reliable fracture risk screening tool for postmenopausal women.

Chronic Preinjury Anemia Is Associated With Increased Risk of 1-Year Mortality in Geriatric Hip Fracture Patients

INTRODUCTION

To assess whether a diagnosis of preexisting anemia impacts outcomes of geriatric hip fractures.

METHODS

This is a retrospective comparative study conducted at a single, urban hospital system consisting of an orthopaedic specialty hospital, two level 1 trauma centers, and one university-based tertiary care hospital. Data of patients aged 55 years or older with a femoral neck, intertrochanteric, or subtrochanteric hip fracture (AO/OA 31A, 31B, and 32A-C) at a single hospital center treated from October 2014 to October 2023 were retrieved from an institutional review board-approved database. Patients were included if they had a hemoglobin measurement recorded between 6 and 12 months before hospitalization for their hip fracture. Patients were cohorted based on whether their hemoglobin values recorded anemic or not. Comparative analysis was conducted to analyze 1-year mortality, 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, 90-day readmission, and inpatient major complications.

RESULTS

Four hundred ninety-eight patients had hemoglobin values recorded at 6 to 12 months before their surgery in the electronic medical record. Two hundred seventy-three patients (54.8%) were considered anemic at that time, whereas 225 patients (45.2%) were not. Cohorts were markedly different regarding sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, preinjury ambulatory status, and Score for Trauma Triage in Geriatric and Middle-Aged Patients (STTGMA) score (P < 0.05 for all). Multivariable analysis revealed that chronic preinjury anemia patients had a higher likelihood of 1-year mortality and a higher risk of major inpatient complication and 30- and 90-day readmission (P < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Chronic preinjury anemia within 6 to 12 months before a hip fracture is associated with an increased risk of 1-year mortality, inpatient major complications, and 30- and 90-day readmission after hip fracture fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Integrated Dual Lag Screws Have Higher Reoperation Rates for Fixation Failure Than Single Lag Component Cephalomedullary Nails: A Retrospective Study of 2,130 Patients with Intertrochanteric Femoral Fractures

BACKGROUND

Previous studies comparing reoperation risk between integrated dual lag screw (IDL) and single lag component (SL) cephalomedullary nails (CMNs) in the treatment of intertrochanteric femoral fractures have demonstrated mixed results. The purpose of this study was to assess the rates of reoperation for fixation failure and all-cause reoperation in a large, multi-institutional cohort of patients with an intertrochanteric fracture treated with an IDL or SL CMN. We hypothesized that there would be no difference between the groups with respect to either of the reoperation rates.

METHODS

Adults (≥18 years old) who sustained an intertrochanteric fracture (AO/OTA 31A1 to 31A3) treated with an IDL or SL CMN between January 2014 and May 2021 at 1 of 13 Level-I trauma centers were included. Patients with <3 months of follow-up or pathologic fractures were excluded. Rates of reoperation were compared with use of the chi-square test and multivariable regression, controlling for age, gender, injury mechanism, fracture pattern, and postoperative neck-shaft angle.

RESULTS

A total of 2,130 patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age was 78 years, and 62.5% of patients were female. The cohort consisted of 287 patients (13.5%) with an IDL CMN and 1,843 patients (86.5%) with an SL CMN. A total of 99 patients (4.6%) had a reoperation of any type, of whom 29 (1.4% of all patients) had a reoperation for fixation failure. Compared with patients with an SL CMN, those with an IDL CMN had higher rates (4.2% versus 0.9%; p < 0.001) and odds (odds ratio [OR], 4.95 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.29 to 10.69]; p < 0.001) of reoperation for fixation failure as well as higher rates (7.3% versus 4.2%; p = 0.021) and odds (OR, 1.83 [95% CI, 1.10 to 3.06]; p = 0.021) of all-cause reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Intertrochanteric femoral fractures treated with an IDL CMN were associated with low but significantly higher rates and significantly higher odds of reoperation for fixation failure and all-cause reoperation compared with those treated with an SL CMN. We suggest caution to surgeons in the use of IDL CMNs for high-risk patients and recommend using SL CMNs for most patients with intertrochanteric femoral fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Developing an exercise intervention to minimise hip bone mineral density loss following traumatic lower limb amputation: a Delphi study

OBJECTIVE

To elicit expert opinion and gain consensus on specific exercise intervention parameters to minimise hip bone mineral density (BMD) loss following traumatic lower limb amputation.

METHODS

In three Delphi rounds, statements were presented to a panel of 13 experts from six countries. Experts were identified through publications or clinical expertise. Round 1 involved participants rating their agreement with 22 exercise prescription statements regarding BMD loss post amputation using a 5-point Likert scale. Agreement was deemed as 3-4 on the scale (agree/strongly agree). Statements of <50% agreement were excluded. Round 2 repeated remaining statements alongside round 1 feedback. Round 3 allowed reflection on round 2 responses considering group findings and the chance to change or maintain the resp onse. Round 3 statements reaching ≥70% agreement were defined as consensus.

RESULTS

All 13 experts completed rounds 1, 2 and 3 (100% completion). Round 1 excluded 12 statements and added 1 statement (11 statements for rounds 2-3). Round 3 reached consensus on nine statements to guide future exercise interventions. Experts agreed that exercise interventions should be performed at least 2 days per week for a minimum of 6 months, including at least three different resistance exercises at an intensity of 8-12 repetitions. Interventions should include weight-bearing and multiplanar exercises, involve high-impact activities and be supervised initially.

CONCLUSION

This expert Delphi process achieved consensus on nine items related to exercise prescription to minimise hip BMD loss following traumatic lower limb amputation. These recommendations should be tested in future interventional trials.

Lateral femoral wall thickness in trochanteric hip fractures: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Thin lateral femoral wall has been investigated as a sign of instability in trochanteric hip fractures, necessitating lateral wall reconstruction or the use of a cephalomedullary nail (CMN). Various cut-off values have been proposed to guide implant choice. This review aims to determine the clinical significance of the lateral femoral wall thickness (LWT) in trochanteric hip fractures and identify an optimal cut-off value for increased risk of lateral wall (LW) fracture when using Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS).

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in databases including Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library up to July 2023. A predefined strategy was employed, with 5 eligible studies critically appraised using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria. Outcomes assessed encompassed the standardised mean difference (SMD) of LWT between the LW fracture and non LW fracture groups, aggregate LWT mean in LW fracture group, and the relation between AO/OTA fracture type with LW fracture utilising the chi-square test.

RESULTS

Among 481 patients from 5 studies, 112 experienced LW fractures, while 369 did not postoperatively. Analysis indicated a significantly lower LWT in the LW fracture group (SMD -1.13, I² = 41.3%, p = 0.146). The mean LWT in the LW fracture group was 18.2 mm, with a 95% confidence interval of 17.29-19.10 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

A preoperative thin lateral femoral wall is a critical predictor of fixation failure and suboptimal functional outcomes when using a DHS. Thorough evaluation of pre- and intraoperative x-rays is essential. CMN is recommended over DHS in cases with LWT measurements <19 mm.

Incongruent Treatment Recommendations Between Left and Right Hip Bone Mineral Densities

Objective The official position of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) is that either hip site can be scanned with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) imaging. Whether there is a difference in guideline-based treatment recommendations between hip sites has not previously been assessed. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of all individuals who underwent DXA imaging at a single center from September 1, 2018, to October 31, 2019. Women aged ≥ 40 years old and men aged ≥ 50 years old were included. Individuals without bilateral hip measurements or who were on osteoporosis treatment were excluded. The 10-year probability of fracture using the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) was calculated for each hip when the worst T-score was in the osteopenia range. Results Of the included participants, 10% (n = 151/1505) had incongruent treatment recommendations (ITR) between the left and right hips. In the ITR group, 70% (n = 106) had osteopenia and 30% (n = 45) had osteoporosis. Age was the only significant risk factor for ITR overall (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04-1.09). In the osteopenia group, however, age (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.13-1.21), history of parental hip fracture (OR: 3.16, 95% CI: 1.65-6.05), and glucocorticoid use (OR: 4.18, 95% CI: 1.6-11.0) were associated with ITR. In the osteoporosis group, the right hip (femoral neck and total) T-scores were significantly lower compared to the left. Conclusion Measuring bone mineral density on both hips changes treatment recommendations in 10% of people. This was more likely in those with osteopenia who were older, had a parental history of hip fracture, or were on glucocorticoids. Measuring both hips did not add time or cost to patient care. Given the minimal disadvantages to measuring both hips, there should be a strong consideration to change the current guidance of only measuring one hip.

Matters We Metric Vs. Metrics that Matter

Introduction

Geriatric fracture is a pressing global health issue, marked by elevated mortality and morbidity rates and escalating health care costs. The evolving health care system from fee-for-service to quality-based reimbursement has led to externally driven reward and reimbursement systems that may not account for the complexity of caring for older adults with fracture.

Significance

The aim of this review is to highlight the need for a shift towards meaningful metrics that impact geriatric fracture care and to issue a call to action for all medical societies to advocate for national reimbursement and ranking systems that focus on metrics that truly matter.

Results

Traditional metrics, while easier to capture, may not necessarily represent high quality care and may even have unintentional adverse consequences. For example, the focus on reducing length of stay may lead to older patients being discharged too early, without adequately addressing pain, constipation, or delirium. In addition, a focus on mortality may miss the opportunity to deliver compassionate end-of-life care. Existing geriatric fracture care metrics have expanded beyond traditional metrics to include assessment by geriatricians, fracture prevention, and delirium assessments. However, there is a need to further consider and develop patient-focused metrics. The Age-Friendly Health Initiative (4 Ms), which includes Mobility, Medication, Mentation, and what Matters is an evidence-based framework for assessing and acting on critical issues in the care of older adults. Additional metrics that should be considered include an assessment of nutrition and secondary fracture prevention.

Conclusion

In the realm of geriatric fracture care, the metrics currently employed often revolve around adherence to established guidelines and are heavily influenced by financial considerations. It is crucial to shift the paradigm towards metrics that truly matter for geriatric fracture patients, recognizing the multifaceted nature of their care and the profound impact these fractures have on their lives.

Opportunistic CT screening demonstrates increased risk for peri-articular fractures in osteoporotic patients

BACKGROUND

Underdiagnosis or undertreatment of osteoporosis consequently impacts individual morbidity and mortality, as well as on healthcare systems and communities as a whole. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard method for identifying osteoporosis, however, opportunistic CT screening is capable of precisely estimating bone mineral density (BMD) in abdominopelvic imaging with no additional cost, radiation exposure or inconvenience to patients. This study uses opportunistic CT screening to determine the prevalence of osteoporosis and anatomic distribution patterns in patients presenting with lower extremity fractures at our institution.

HYPOTHESIS

Trauma patients with low bone mineral density (BMD) are more likely to present with peri-articular versus shaft fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 721 patients presenting as trauma activations to the emergency department (ED) of a Level 1 Trauma Center with lower extremity fractures. Patients were excluded if under the age of 18 or lacking a CT scan upon arrival in the ED. Hounsfield Units (HU) were measured at the L1 vertebral level on CT scans to determine bone mineral density. Values of ≤100 HU were consistent with osteoporosis, whereas 101-150 HU were consistent with osteopenia.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 416 patients, with mean age of 49 ± 21 years. Average bone density was 203.9 ± 73.4 HU. 15.9% of patients were diagnosed as osteopenic and 9.9% as osteoporotic. 64.2% of fractures were peri-articular, 25.7% were shaft, and 10.1% were a combination. Peri-articular fractures were significantly more likely to have lower average BMD than shaft fractures (189 ± 74.7 HU vs. 230.6 ± 66.1 HU, p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Our study demonstrates a significant relationship between low bone mineral density and lower extremity fracture pattern, however, likely influenced by other factors such as sex. Opportunistic CT screening for osteoporosis in trauma settings provides ample opportunity for early detection of low BMD and implementation of highly effective lifestyle modification and pharmacotherapy intervention. Reduction in the overall incidence of peri-articular fracture with widespread adoption of opportunistic CT screening may lessen the morbidity, mortality, and total cost currently afflicting patients, healthcare systems, and communities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, therapeutic.

A 10-Year Experience of an Integrated Geriatric Hip Fracture Treatment Protocol: Outcomes at a Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up

Introduction

Increasing incidence of fragility fractures has spurred development of protocols, largely focused on peri-operative care, with numerous proven benefits. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate outcomes of our hip fracture treatment program regarding successful protocol implementation, compliance, effect on subsequent fracture rates, and mortality during the first decade of adoption.

Methods

A retrospective review identified patients >65 years old with fragility hip fractures between 2010 and 2022. The HiROC (+) cohort consisted of patients who received a "High-Risk Osteoporosis Clinic" (HiROC) referral for bone health evaluation and bisphosphonate initiation as indicated. Additional fracture rates and mortality at 3 years were calculated. Protocol implementation and compliance over the first 10 years was analyzed in the four identified cohorts.

Results

A total of 1671 fragility hip fractures were identified, with 386 excluded due to insufficient follow-up, with an average age of 81.6 years and a median follow-up of 36.4 months. Of the 1280 included cases, 56% (n = 717) had a HiROC referral placed. HiROC(+) groups had lower subsequent fracture rates at two years, compared to those without referral (28% vs 13%, P < 0.0001) and those completing more steps of the protocol had lower subsequent fracture rates (28% vs 15% vs 13% vs 5%, P < 0.0001). No statistically significant difference was observed between the cohorts for anatomic site of subsequent fractures.

Discussion

Greater than half of all eligible patients were successfully captured by the protocol. Patients completing more steps of the protocol had lower subsequent fracture rates. Captured patients demonstrated reduced mortality rates when compared to current literature.

Conclusion

Successful implementation of this geriatric hip fracture protocol was associated with reduced additional fractures and mortality rates. Identifying steps of process failures in the protocol can provide opportunities for increased compliance and reduction in future fracture occurrences.

Predictive value of the early postoperative hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio for acute kidney injury in elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients

BACKGROUND

Hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) had great predictive value for the prognosis of malignant tumors and cardiovascular disease. However, its predictive value for the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients remains unclear. This study aims to analyze the correlation between the early postoperative HRR and the risk of postoperative AKI in elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 307 elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients in this single-center retrospective cohort study. We performed univariate analysis on the relevant parameters, and parameters with significant differences were included in the following logistic regression model for multivariate analysis. Then, we used a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to evaluate the predictive value of the early postoperative HRR level for AKI in elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients. Patients were divided into a high HRR group and a low HRR group according to the cutoff point determined by ROC curve analysis. Subsequently, the relevance between postoperative HRR and AKI was further determined using propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

RESULTS

The area under the curve of the early postoperative HRR for predicting postoperative AKI was 0.714 (95% CI: 0.618-0.809). The cutoff value was 5.44. The sensitivity was 72.7%, and the specificity was 70.8%. Patients were divided into low HRR (⩽ 5.44) and high HRR (> 5.44) groups according to the cutoff value. PSM and IPTW analysis indicated that the risk of AKI in the low HRR group was significantly higher than that in the high HRR group in both the matched cohort (OR = 6.914, 95% CI: 1.714-46.603, p = 0.016) and the weighted group (OR = 2.784, 95% CI: 1.415-5.811, p = 0.040).

CONCLUSIONS

Early postoperative HRR is an accurate, accessible, and economical blood test parameter that can predict the risk of postoperative AKI in elderly patients with femoral intertrochanteric fracture.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Providing Guideline-Concordant Care After Hip Fracture Surgery

Importance

Institutions have adopted protocol-driven standardized hip fracture programs (SHFPs). However, concerns persist regarding bias in adherence to guideline-concordant care leading to disparities in implementing high-quality care for patients recovering from surgery for hip fracture.

Objective

To assess disparities in the implementation of guideline-concordant care for patients after hip fracture surgery in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Targeted Hip Fracture (THF) Database.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study was conducted using the ACS-NSQIP THF database from 2016 to 2021 for patients aged 65 years and older with hip fractures undergoing surgical fixation. Care outcomes of racial and ethnic minority patients (including American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, or multiple races and Hispanic ethnicity) were compared with non-Hispanic White patients via risk difference, stratified by care institution SHFP status. Modified Poisson regression was used to measure interactions. Statistical analysis was performed from November 2022 to June 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes of interest encompassed weight-bearing as tolerated (WBAT) on postoperative day 1 (POD1), venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis, bone-protective medication, and the presence of SHFP at the institution.

Results

Among 62 194 patients (mean [SD] age, 82.4 [7.3] years; 43 356 [69.7%] female) who met inclusion criteria and after multiple imputation, 11.2% (95% CI, 10.8%-11.5%) were racial and ethnic minority patients, 3.3% (95% CI, 3.1%-3.4%) were Hispanic patients, and 92.0% (95% CI, 91.7%-92.2%) were White. Receiving care at an institution with an SHFP was associated with improved likelihood of receiving guideline-concordant care for all patients to varying degrees across care outcomes. SHFP was associated with higher probability of being WBAT-POD1 (risk difference for racial and ethnic minority patients, 0.030 [95% CI, 0.004-0.056]; risk difference for non-Hispanic White patients, 0.037 [95% CI, 0.029-0.45]) and being prescribed VTE prophylaxis (risk difference for racial and ethnic minority patients, 0.066 [95% CI, 0.040-0.093]; risk difference for non-Hispanic White patients, 0.080 [95% CI, 0.071-0.089]), but SHFP was associated with the largest improvements in receipt of bone-protective medications (risk difference for racial and ethnic minority patients, 0.149 [95% CI, 0.121-0.178]; risk difference for non-Hispanic White patients, 0.181 [95% CI, 0.173-0.190]). While receiving care at an SHFP was associated with improved probability of receiving guideline-concordant care in both race and ethnicity groups, greater improvements were seen among non-Hispanic White patients compared with racial and ethnic minority patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

Older adults who received care at an institution with an SHFP were more likely to receive guideline-concordant care (bone-protective medication, WBAT-POD1, and VTE prophylaxis), regardless of race and ethnicity. However, the probability of receiving guideline-concordant care at an institution with an SHFP increased more for non-Hispanic White patients than racial and ethnic minority patients.

Evaluation of a Blood Reserve Protocol for Hip Fracture Surgery in the Elderly

Objective  To identify the predictive factors for the need for transfusion during and after surgery to treat hip fractures in the elderly and to evaluate a protocol to guide the request for blood reserves for surgery. Methods  The medical records of 172 elderly patients undergoing surgical treatment for proximal femoral fractures were collected. Data on sex, age, preoperative hemoglobin level, diagnosis, and type of surgery were tested for correlation with blood transfusion. In our sample, we determined the number of units of packed red blood cells reserved, the transfusion rate, and the cross-test:transfusion ratio. We made the same calculations in a hypothetical situation in which the request for blood reserves for our sample followed the criteria of a defined protocol. Results  We found a correlation between the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification and the occurrence of transfusions, and an inverse correlation between the hemoglobin level on admission and the number of bags transfused. A reserve of 328 units of packed red blood cells was requested for 167 surgeries. Had the proposed protocol been applied, 72 units would have been requested for 61 surgeries. Conclusion  We found a correlation regarding the variables ASA classification and preoperative hemoglobin level and the occurrence of transfusion. Applying a proposed protocol to decide between requesting a reserve and only typing for elderly individuals undergoing surgical treatment for hip fracture proved suitable to reduce the number of packed red blood cell reserves.

Increased 1-Year Revision Rates Among Left-Sided Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures

OBJECTIVES

To compare 1-year revision rates among left-sided and right-sided intertrochanteric femur fractures.

METHODS

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

120+ contributing centers to multicentered database.

PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA

Patients who sustained intertrochanteric femur fracture (ITFF) and had a cephalomedullary nail (CMN) from 2015 to 2022 were identified. Patients were then stratified based on left-sided or right-sided fracture. Patients were excluded if younger than 18 years with <1-year follow-up. The intervention investigated was CMN on left or right side.

OUTCOME MEASURES AND COMPARISONS

One-year revision surgery, comparing CMN performed on left or right side for ITFFs.

RESULTS

In total, 113,626 patients met inclusion criteria, with 55,295 in the right-sided cohort and 58,331 in the left-sided cohort. There was no difference between cohorts with respect to age, gender, diabetes, osteoporosis, chronic kidney disease, or congestive heart failure (P > 0.05 for all). Patients who sustained a left ITFF and treated with a CMN were more likely to have revision surgery at 1 year (Left: 1.24%, Right: 0.90%; OR: 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.1.33) or develop a nonunion or malunion (Left: 1.30%, Right: 0.98%; OR: 1.31; 95% CI, 1.14-1.52). The most common revision surgery conducted for both cohorts was conversion total hip arthroplasty (Left: 70.4% and Right: 70.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who sustained a left intertrochanteric femur fracture and were treated with a CMN were more likely to undergo revision at 1 year due to nonunion. There were no differences in demographics and comorbidities between cohorts. Though left-sided versus right-sided confounding variables may exist, the difference in nonunion rate may be explained by clockwise torque of the lag screw used in most implants. Increased awareness, implant design, and improved technique during fracture reduction and fixation may help lower this disproportionate nonunion rate and its associated morbidity and financial impact.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

A New Postoperative Stability Score to Predict Loss of Reduction in Intertrochanteric Fractures in Elderly Patients

The study aimed to validate a newly developed postoperative stability score for evaluating clinical follow-up in elderly patients with low-energy hip fractures. From 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2021, we enrolled patients aged over 65 who underwent cephalomedullary nail fixation using proximal femoral nail antirotation II (PFNAII) and had at least 6 months of follow-up; excluding multiple fractures, pathological fractures, and periprosthetic fractures. We collected general patient data. Parameters such as TAD, Parker's ratio (AP and lateral), and the new postoperative stability score were recorded. A loss of reduction was defined using the decline in the Chang reduction quality criteria (CRQC) score within one month. Among the 108 enrolled patients, 23 (21.3%) experienced a loss of reduction, with a mean age of 82.1 years and a mean follow-up time of 7.4 months. Univariate analysis showed no significant association between loss of reduction and general data. However, the new postoperative stability score correlated significantly with loss of reduction (mean scores: 6.68 vs. 4.83, p = 0.045). Multivariate analysis confirmed this association (odds ratio: 0.076, 95% confidence interval: 0.022-0.263, p < 0.05). The newly developed postoperative stability score, incorporating surgical technique assessment, improves prediction accuracy for loss of reduction in elderly intertrochanteric fracture (ITF) patients.

A Successful Method of Attaining Traction in Above-Knee Amputation Patients With Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures

Intertrochanteric fractures are a common occurrence in the general population; however, in patients with above-knee amputations, they are relatively rare. In this patient population, positioning on a fracture table presents a particularly difficult problem prior to the fixation of an intertrochanteric fracture. Here, we describe a 57-year-old man with extensive vasculopathy and reduced bone density who presents with an intertrochanteric fracture after a fall from standing. Adequate traction of the amputated leg was achieved via the modification of a standard fracture table and the utilization of a Bohler traction bow. Fixation of the intertrochanteric fracture was successful, and the patient suffered no postoperative complications.

Biomechanical evaluation of ortho-bridge system and proximal femoral nail antirotation in intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall fracture based on finite element analysis

Background

The integrity of the lateral wall in femoral intertrochanteric fractures significantly impacts fracture stability and internal fixation. In this study, we compared the outcomes of treating intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall involvement using the ortho-bridge system (OBS) combined with proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) versus simple PFNA from a biomechanical perspective.

Methods

Finite-element models of femoral intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall involvement were subjected to fixation with OBS combined with PFNA and simple PFNA. Von Mises stress measurements and corresponding displacement assessments for each component of the model, including the proximal femur and lateral wall, were used to evaluate the biomechanical effects of OBS fixation on bone and intramedullary nail stability.

Results

Using PFNA alone to fix intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall involvement resulted in von Mises stress levels on the lateral wall exceeding safe stress tolerances for bone growth. OBS fixation significantly reduced stress on the lateral wall of the femur and minimized the stress on each part of the intramedullary nail, reducing the overall displacement.

Conclusion

In cases of intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall involvement, PFNA fixation alone may compromise the biomechanical integrity of the lateral femoral wall, increasing the risk of postoperative complications. The addition of OBS to PFNA significantly reduces stress on the lateral femoral wall. Consequently, OBS should be considered for lateral wall fixation when managing intertrochanteric fractures combined with lateral wall fractures.

Risk of internal fixation treatment in intertrochanteric fracture based on different lateral femoral wall thickness: finite element analysis

OBJECTIVE

The thickness of the lateral femoral wall, which is an important indicator for evaluating the stability and integrity of intertrochanteric fractures, has been widely studied in recent years. However, as a typical representative of internal fixation treatment, there are few reports on the biomechanical comparison between PFNA and DHS + CS. This study focused primarily on the biomechanical effects of different lateral femoral wall thicknesses on two types of internal fixation through finite element analysis.

METHODS

We randomly recruited a healthy adult and collected his femoral CT data to establish a model of femoral intertrochanteric fracture with different lateral femoral wall thicknesses. Following PFNA and DHS + CS fixation, femoral models were simulated, and variations in stress and displacement of the internal fixation and femoral head were recorded under the same physiological load.

RESULTS

First, finite element mechanical analysis revealed that the stress and displacement of the internal fixation and femoral head were lower in the femoral model after PFNA fixation than in the DHS + CS model. Second, as the outer wall thickness decreased, the stress and deformation endured by both types of internal fixation gradually increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Finite element analysis determined that PFNA exhibits significantly better biomechanical stability than DHS + CS when subjected to varying lateral femoral wall thicknesses. Moreover, lateral femoral wall thickness substantially affects the stability of the two internal fixation biomechanical environments. When the thickness of the lateral femoral wall is too small, we do not recommend using extramedullary fixation because there is a significant risk of internal fixation fracture.

Robot-assisted versus traditional surgery in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures: a meta-analysis

Intramedullary nail fixation of intertrochanteric fractures assisted by orthopedic surgical robot navigation is a new surgical method, but there are few studies comparing its efficacy with traditional intramedullary nail fixation. We aimed to assess whether robot-assisted internal fixation confers certain surgical advantages through a literature review. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wan fang Data Knowledge service Platform were searched to collect randomized and non-randomized studies on patients with calcaneal fractures. Five studies were identified to compare the clinical indexes. For the clinical indexes, the technology of robot-assisted is generally feasible, in time to operation, intraoperative fluoroscopy times, blood loss, pine insertion, tip apex distance (TAD), and Harris score (P < 0.05). However, on the complication and excellent and good rate after operation did not show good efficacy compared with the traditional group (P > 0.05). Based on the current evidence, For the short-term clinical index, the advantages of robot-assisted are clear. The long-term clinical effects of the two methods are also good, but the robot-assisted shows better. However, the quality of some studies is low, and more high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed for further verification.

Finite element analysis of proximal femur bionic nail for treating intertrochanteric fractures in osteoporotic bone

This study compared the biomechanical characteristics of proximal femur bionic nail (PFBN) and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) in treating osteoporotic femoral intertrochanteric fractures using finite element analysis. Under similar bone density, the PFBN outperforms the PFNA in maximum femoral displacement, internal fixation displacement, stress distribution in the femoral head and internal fixation components, and femoral neck varus angle. As the bone density decreases, the PFBN's biomechanical advantages over PFNA become more pronounced. This finding suggests that the PFBN is superior for treating osteoporotic intertrochanteric femoral fractures.

Biomechanical comparison of an intramedullary nail combined with a reconstruction plate combination versus a single intramedullary nail in unstable intertrochanteric fractures with lateral femoral wall fracture: A finite element analysis

This study aimed to compare the biomechanical performance of an intramedullary nail combined with a reconstruction plate and a single intramedullary nail in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures with a fracture of the lateral femoral wall (LFW). A three-dimensional finite element (FE) femur model was established from computed tomography images of a healthy male volunteer. A major reverse obliquity fracture line, associated with a lesser trochanteric fragment defect and a free bone fragment of the LFW, was developed to create an AO/OTA type 31-A3.3 unstable intertrochanteric fracture mode. Two fixation styles were simulated: a long InterTAN nail (ITN) with or without a reconstruction plate (RP). A vertical load of 2100 N was applied to the femoral head to simulate normal walking. The construct stiffness, von Mises stress, and model displacement were assessed. The ITN with RP fixation (ITN/RP) provided higher axial stiffness (804 N/mm) than the ITN construct (621 N/mm). The construct stiffness of ITN/RP fixation was 29% higher than that of ITN fixation. The peak von Mises stress of the implants in the ITN/RP and ITN models was 994.46 MPa and 1235.24 MPa, respectively. The peak stress of the implants in the ITN/RP model decreased by 24% compared to that of the ITN model. The peak von Mises stress of the femur in the ITN/RP model was 269.06 MPa, which was lower than that of the ITN model (331.37 MPa). The peak stress of the femur in the ITN/RP model was 23% lower than that of the ITN model. The maximum displacements of the ITN/RP and ITN models were 12.12 mm and 13.53 mm, respectively. The maximum displacement of the ITN/RP model decreased by 12% compared with that of the ITN model. The study suggested that an additional plate fixation could increase the construct stiffness, reduce the stresses in the implant and femur, and decrease displacement after intramedullary nailing. Therefore, the intramedullary nail and reconstruction plate combination may provide biomechanical advantages over the single intramedullary nail in unstable intertrochanteric fractures with a fractured LFW.

Systemically administered zoledronic acid activates locally implanted synthetic hydroxyapatite particles enhancing peri-implant bone formation: A regenerative medicine approach to improve fracture fixation

Fracture fixation in an ageing population is challenging and fixation failure increases mortality and societal costs. We report a novel fracture fixation treatment by applying a hydroxyapatite (HA) based biomaterial at the bone-implant interface and biologically activating the biomaterial by systemic administration of a bisphosphonate (zoledronic acid, ZA). We first used an animal model of implant integration and applied a calcium sulphate (CaS)/HA biomaterial around a metallic screw in the tibia of osteoporotic rats. Using systemic ZA administration at 2-weeks post-surgery, we demonstrated that the implant surrounded by HA particles showed significantly higher peri‑implant bone formation compared to the unaugmented implants at 6-weeks. We then evaluated the optimal timing (day 1, 3, 7 and 14) of ZA administration to achieve a robust effect on peri‑implant bone formation. Using fluorescent ZA, we demonstrated that the uptake of ZA in the CaS/HA material was the highest at 3- and 7-days post-implantation and the uptake kinetics had a profound effect on the eventual peri‑implant bone formation. We furthered our concept in a feasibility study on trochanteric fracture patients randomized to either CaS/HA augmentation or no augmentation followed by systemic ZA treatment. Radiographically, the CaS/HA group showed signs of increased peri‑implant bone formation compared with the controls. Finally, apart from HA, we demonstrated that the concept of biologically activating a ceramic material by ZA could also be applied to β-tricalcium phosphate. This novel approach for fracture treatment that enhances immediate and long-term fracture fixation in osteoporotic bone could potentially reduce reoperations, morbidity and mortality. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: • Fracture fixation in an ageing population is challenging. Biomaterial-based augmentation of fracture fixation devices has been attempted but lack of satisfactory biological response limits their widespread use. • We report the biological activation of locally implanted microparticulate hydroxyapatite (HA) particles placed around an implant by systemic administration of the bisphosphonate zoledronic acid (ZA). The biological activation of HA by ZA enhances peri‑implant bone formation. •Timing of ZA administration after HA implantation is critical for optimal ZA uptake and consequently determines the extent of peri‑implant bone formation. • We translate the developed concept from small animal models of implant integration to a proof-of-concept clinical study on osteoporotic trochanteric fracture patients. • ZA based biological activation can also be applied to other calcium phosphate biomaterials.

Epidemiological features of 1,332 cases of hip fracture in Shanghai, China (2015-2020)

PURPOSE

This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of hip fracture in all age groups in Shanghai, and to evaluate the hospitalization cost of patients with hip fracture.

METHODS

A total of 1,332 hip fracture patients admitted to a tertiary general hospital between January 2015 and May 2020 in Shanghai were included. Age, sex, diagnosis, cause of injury and site, fracture type, comorbidities, length of stay, treatment, outcomes (at discharge) and hospitalization expenses were recorded. The epidemiological characteristics of hip fracture were analyzed by using SPSS 26.0 software.

RESULTS

The average age of hip fracture was 77.24 ± 12.66 years, and 69.0% of the patients were female. Overall, 886 patients had femoral neck fracture, and 446 patients suffered from intertrochanteric fracture. Most of the fractures caused by falls at the same level and falls from a height occurred in those aged 81-90 years; and traffic accident injuries mostly took place in patients aged 50-60. Among the 1,302 hip fracture patients who underwent surgical treatment, hip replacement was the major choice for femoral neck fracture, accounting for 49.2%. Internal fixation was the main treatment choice for intertrochanteric fracture, making up 97.8%. The median length of hospital stay lasted 8 days and at cost of hospitalization was ¥49,138.18 RMB.

CONCLUSION

This epidemiological study found that patients with hip fracture had certain distribution characteristics in age, sex, type of fracture, injury season, cause of injury, mode of operation, length of stay, cost, and so on. Proper medical management, social preventive measures, and prevention of falls are needed to reduce the risk of hip fracture and the socioeconomic burden.

Nail fixation of unstable trochanteric fractures with or without cement augmentation: A cost-utility analysis in the United States: Cost-utility of cement augmentation

OBJECTIVES

Recent clinical studies have shown favorable outcomes for cement augmentation for fixation of trochanteric fracture. We assessed the cost-utility of cement augmentation for fixation of closed unstable trochanteric fractures from the US payer's perspective.

METHODS

The cost-utility model comprised a decision tree to simulate clinical events over 1 year after the index fixation surgery, and a Markov model to extrapolate clinical events over patients' lifetime, using a cohort of 1,000 patients with demographic and clinical characteristics similar to that of a published randomized controlled trial (age ≥75 years, 83 % female). Model outputs were discounted costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) over a lifetime. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the impact of parameter uncertainty on results.

RESULTS

Fixation with augmentation reduced per-patient costs by $754.8 and had similar per-patient QALYs, compared to fixation without augmentation, resulting in an ICER of -$130,765/QALY. The ICER was most sensitive to the utility of revision surgery, mortality risk ratio after the second revision surgery, mortality risk ratio after successful index surgery, and mortality rate in the decision tree model. The probability that fixation with augmentation was cost-effective compared with no augmentation was 63.4 %, 58.2 %, and 56.4 %, given a maximum acceptable ceiling ratio of $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000 per QALY gained, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Fixation with cement augmentation was the dominant strategy, driven mainly by reduced costs. These results may support surgeons in evidence-based clinical decision making and may be informative for policy makers regarding coverage and reimbursement.

Benchmarking institutional geriatric hip fracture management: a prelude to a care quality improvement initiative

BACKGROUND

Fractures around the hip in older adults have increased in the last two decades, and the numbers are projected to rise over the next 30 years with estimates that half of them will occur in Asia. Proximal hip fractures should be operated within 48 h of injury to prevent poor outcomes. This study aims to benchmark current hip fracture care using quality improvement tools of care structure, care processes, and outcomes in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India and determine the evidence-practice gaps and barriers to implementing the six best practices that reduce mortality and morbidity in fragility hip fractures.

METHODS

A total of 101 consecutive patients above 50 years of age with proximal femoral fractures after a trivial fall were included. Patients were divided into two groups: those operated within [Group A] and beyond [Group B] 72 h of admission. Care structure assessment included delays in admission, delay in surgery, and anesthesia risk grading. Care processes included the type of surgery performed and postoperative complications. The primary outcomes were the 30-day and 1-year mortality and the secondary outcomes included the length of stay, mobility at 6 months, return to pre-fracture independence, activity limitations, pressure sores, and readmission to the hospital.

RESULTS

Group A comprised 26 individuals, and the remaining 75 were in Group B. There were two deaths in Group A as compared to one death in Group B at 30 days; however, there were no new deaths at 1 year in Group A and 14 deaths in Group B (p = 0.187). Group B had lengthier hospital stays, poorer mobility, and higher physical and mental difficulties. No patients had re-operation on the initial fracture.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasizes the importance of early admission and fast provision of surgical fixation to reduce mortality and morbidity. Benchmarking institutional practices allows for defining the evidence-practice gaps and barriers to best practice implementation. This is an essential step to begin care quality improvement for geriatric patients with proximal femur fragility fractures.

Prioritizing patients for hip fracture surgery: the role of frailty and cardiac risk

Introduction

The number of patients with hip fractures continues to rise as the average age of the population increases. Optimizing outcomes in this cohort is predicated on timely operative repair. The aim of this study was to determine if patients with hip fractures who are frail or have a higher cardiac risk suffer from an increased risk of in-hospital mortality when surgery is postponed >24 h.

Methods

All patients registered in the 2013-2021 TQIP dataset who were ≥65 years old and underwent surgical fixation of an isolated hip fracture caused by a ground-level fall were included. Adjustment for confounding was performed using inverse probability weighting (IPW) while stratifying for frailty with the Orthopedic Frailty Score (OFS) and cardiac risk using the Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI). The outcome was presented as the absolute risk difference in in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 254,400 patients were included. After IPW, all confounders were balanced. A delay in surgery was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality across all strata, and, as the degree of frailty and cardiac risk increased, so too did the risk of mortality. In patients with OFS ≥4, delaying surgery >24 h was associated with a 2.33 percentage point increase in the absolute mortality rate (95% CI: 0.57-4.09, p = 0.010), resulting in a number needed to harm (NNH) of 43. Furthermore, the absolute risk of mortality increased by 4.65 percentage points in patients with RCRI ≥4 who had their surgery delayed >24 h (95% CI: 0.90-8.40, p = 0.015), resulting in a NNH of 22. For patients with OFS 0 and RCRI 0, the corresponding NNHs when delaying surgery >24 h were 345 and 333, respectively.

Conclusion

Delaying surgery beyond 24 h from admission increases the risk of mortality for all geriatric hip fracture patients. The magnitude of the negative impact increases with the patient's level of cardiac risk and frailty. Operative intervention should not be delayed based on frailty or cardiac risk.

Extramedullary versus intramedullary fixation of unstable trochanteric femoral fractures (AO type 31-A2): a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review was to compare extramedullary fixation and intramedullary fixation for AO type 31-A2 trochanteric fractures in the elderly, with regard to functional outcomes, complications, surgical outcomes, and costs.

METHODS

Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models. Results are presented as weighted risk ratio (RR) or weighted mean difference (MD) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

RESULTS

Fourteen RCTs (2039 patients) and 13 observational studies (22,123 patients) were included. Statistically superior results in favor of intramedullary fixation were found for Harris Hip Score (MD 4.09, 95% CI 0.91-7.26, p = 0.04), Parker mobility score (MD - 0.67 95% CI - 1.2 to - 0.17, p = 0.009), lower extremity measure (MD - 4.07 95% CI - 7.4 to - 0.8, p = 0.02), time to full weight bearing (MD 1.14 weeks CI 0.92-1.35, p < 0.001), superficial infection (RR 2.06, 95% CI 1.18-3.58, p = 0.01), nonunion (RR 3.67, 95% CI 1.03-13.10, p = 0.05), fixation failure (RR 2.26, 95% CI 1.16-4.44, p = 0.02), leg shortening (MD 2.23 mm, 95% CI 0.81-3.65, p = 0.002), time to radiological bone healing (MD 2.19 months, 95% CI 0.56-3.83, p = 0.009), surgery duration (MD 11.63 min, 95% CI 2.63-20.62, p = 0.01), operative blood loss (MD 134.5 mL, 95% CI 51-218, p = 0.002), and tip-apex distance > 25 mm (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.10-2.74, p = 0.02). No comparable cost/costs-effectiveness data were available.

CONCLUSION

Current literature shows that several functional outcomes, complications, and surgical outcomes were statistically in favor of intramedullary fixation when compared with extramedullary fixation of AO/OTA 31-A2 fractures. However, as several of the differences found appear not to be clinically relevant and for many outcomes data remains sparse or heterogeneous, complete superiority of IM fixation for AO type 31-A2 fractures remains to be confirmed in a detailed cost-effectiveness analysis.

Bilateral Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures in a Paraplegic Patient: A Case Report

Bilateral intertrochanteric (IT) femur fractures are rare, and appropriate evaluation and treatment can vary depending on concurrent patient comorbidities. Even less has been described for patients with bilateral IT fractures with pre-existing paraplegia. This case report describes the unique case of a 72-year-old paraplegic female who presented with bilateral IT femur fractures due to a wheelchair accident. The patient was treated with single-stage bilateral cephalomedullary nail fixation so she could effectively transfer to and from the wheelchair with less pain and a greater chance of fracture union. At the last follow-up, the patient's pain had resolved and she was able to transfer as effectively and safely as her pre-injury baseline. Single-stage cephalomedullary fixation of bilateral IT femur fractures is indicated in the paraplegic population to relieve pain and improve effective safe transfers for daily activities.

Factors associated with postoperative quality of life in patients with intertrochanteric fracture

Introduction

Intertrochanteric fractures, which make up the majority of hip fractures, are a common and serious injury that can greatly impact quality of life. Treatment of such fractures comprises nearly half of the costs contributed to hip fractures. Identifying the factors affecting the functional outcomes of patients after intertrochanteric fracture can help to reduce burden of disease for the patient and healthcare system. The present study investigated the factors underlying the worsening of short form-36 score (SF-36) scores for intertrochanteric fracture patients.

Materials and methods

This retrospective cohort study was designed based on data from our clinic. All consecutive patients with intertrochanteric fractures from November 2016 to September 2020 were reviewed. The exclusion criteria included patients having a second injury or having had previous surgery related to the hip and those with incomplete data. Baseline characteristics of patients were extracted from annotated records. The lab data were acquired from the electronic hospital system. The outcomes were SF-36 scores obtained by phone contact with patients or their families. Statistical analysis was conducted in SPSS.

Results

A total of 310 patients were included in the current study. The female gender, advanced age, history of diabetes, thyroid malfunction, cancer, osteoporosis, anticoagulant use and blood transfusion were identified as risk factors for lower SF-36 scores. Low levels of haemoglobin before surgery, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), BUN/Creatinine, and white blood count values correlated with lower SF-36 scores.

Conclusion

Numerous contextual variables affected the functional outcomes of the patients. Consideration of these factors could be helpful in reducing costs and improving the quality of life for intertrochanteric fracture patients.

A National Database Retrospective Review of Short-Term Postoperative Mortality in the Geriatric Population: A Comparison Between Emergency Spine Fractures and Hip Fractures

BACKGROUND

Mortality rates following emergency spine fracture surgery are high, especially in the elderly. However, how the postoperative mortality rate following spine fractures compares to other geriatric fractures such as hip fractures remains unclear. Therefore, this retrospective cohort study aimed to compare 30-day mortality rates and risk factors between emergency spine fracture versus hip fracture surgery in the elderly.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried between 2011 and 2021 for emergency spine fractures and hip fractures in the elderly. Univariate analyses evaluated demographic data, perioperative factors, comorbidities, and 30-day mortality rates as the primary outcomes. A multivariable regression model was then constructed to control for significant baseline and demographic differences and evaluate independent predictors of mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 18,287 emergency hip fractures and 192 emergency spine fractures were included in our study. Univariate analysis demonstrated significant differences in female sex, body mass index (BMI), operation time, length of hospital stays, disseminated cancer, and functional dependence between spine and hip fractures. Thirty-day mortality rates were significantly higher in spine versus hip fractures (9.4% vs. 5%). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated emergent spine fracture surgery, disseminated cancer, functional dependence, and length of stay as independent predictors of mortality in our cohort. Female sex, BMI, and operation time were protective factors for mortality in our cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Emergency spine fractures in the elderly represent an independent predictor for 30-day postoperative mortality compared to emergency hip fractures. Disseminated cancer, functional dependence, and length of stay were independent predictors of mortality while female sex, BMI, and operation time were protective factors. These data demonstrate the severity of injury and high rates of mortality that clinicians can use to counsel patients and their families.

Surgical site infection after trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures: a single centre retrospective analysis

Surgical site infection (SSI) following osteosynthesis of trochanteric or subtrochanteric fractures is a rare but serious complication with incidence rate ranging from 1 to 3%. SSIs are associated with higher mortality and increased length of hospital stay resulting in higher healthcare costs and loss of life quality. In this retrospective analysis all patients with SSI following osteosynthesis of trochanteric or subtrochanteric fractures at the Department of Trauma Surgery were identified. We included all surgical procedures performed from 1992 to 2018, using data from electronic health records and SSI-Trauma-Registry. The aim was to describe epidemiological data, as well as to identify parameters correlating with the occurrence of SSI and mortality. Of 2753 patients, 53 (1.9%) developed SSI. Longer operative time was demonstrated among patients with SSI (P = 0.008). Mortality during the first postoperative year was significantly higher in the SSI group (32.1% vs. 19.1%; P = 0.018), with detection of methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA; HR 4.13, CI 95% 1.24-13.80; P = 0.021) or Enterococcus spp. (HR 5.58, CI 95% 1.67-18.65; P = 0.005) being independent risk factors. Male sex (HR 2.25, 95% CI 1.86-2.73; P < 0.001) and higher mean age (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.04-1.06; P < 0.001) were found to be predictors for 1-year mortality in non-infected patients. SSI rate was low with 1.9% and longer duration of surgery was associated with infection. Patients with SSI had a higher 1-year mortality, with detection of MSSA, MRSA and enterococci significantly increasing the risk of dying. Male sex and higher age were risk factors for one-year mortality in patients without SSI.

Risk Factors for Early Implant Failure in Geriatric Intertrochanteric Fractures Treated with Twin Interlocking Derotation and Compression Screw Cephalomedullary Nail (InterTAN)

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Intertrochanteric hip fractures in elderly patients are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, with increasing incidence due to the aging population. Despite advancements in intramedullary nailing (IMN) technology, fixation failure remains a concern. This study aims to evaluate pre-and postoperative radiographic risk factors for varus collapse in geriatric intertrochanteric fractures treated with twin interlocking derotation and compression screw cephalomedullary nail (InterTAN, Smith & Nephew).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study included patients over 60 years with AO 31A1 and 31A2 intertrochanteric femur fractures treated with InterTAN at a tertiary referral center from August 2012 to August 2017. Patients with high-energy fractures, AO 31A3 fractures, or those requiring open reduction were excluded. Data on demographics, fracture classification, implant sizes, imaging studies, and follow-up were collected. Radiographic assessments included Chang's medial cortical support concept, tip-apex distance (TAD), calcar-referenced TAD (CalTAD), neck-shaft angles (NSA), and screw placement according to Cleveland zones. Varus collapse was defined as a >5° change in NSA within three months postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for varus collapse.

RESULTS

The study included 136 patients with a mean age of 79.8 years, of whom 38.2% were male. The early postoperative tipapex distance (TAD) averaged 21.9mm, with 30.1% of patients experiencing varus collapse greater than 5°. Positive medial cortical support (PMCS) or neutral position (NP) type reduction was highly protective against varus collapse (p < 0.001), as well as TAD less than 25mm (p < 0.001). Additionally, the placement of screws in the central-central or central-inferior zones provided a protective effect against varus collapse (p = 0.031). Conversely, having an OTA/AO type A2.2 or A2.3 fracture significantly increased the risk of varus collapse (p = 0.030). Other factors, such as CalTAD and the nail width to medullary canal ratio, did not significantly predict varus collapse (p = 0.831 and p = 0.952, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Our findings align with previous studies highlighting TAD and screw placement as critical factors in preventing fixation failure. The protective effect of PMCS or NP reduction and the increased risk associated with OTA/AO type A2.2 and A2.3 fractures are noteworthy. Unlike previous studies, CalTAD was not significantly associated with varus collapse in our cohort. The study underscores the importance of surgical technique and radiographic parameters in optimizing outcomes for elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

In elderly patients treated with InterTAN nails, varus collapse is influenced by fracture type, TAD, reduction quality, and screw placement. Ensuring a TAD <25mm, achieving PMCS or NP reduction, and placing screws in central-central or central-inferior zones are crucial for minimizing varus collapse. These findings highlight the importance of meticulous surgical technique and radiographic assessment in managing intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly.

KEY WORDS

hip fractures, intertrochanteric fractures, internal Fixation, geriatrics, cephalomedullary nail.

Analysis of Changes in Sleep Quality and Patterns after Hip Fracture Using Real Evidence of Artificial Intelligence Linked (REAL) Hip Cohort Data

Background and Objectives: Hip fractures are commonly found in elderly patients, and often result in chronic pain and decreased physical function, as well as worsening of overall health. It is known that early surgical intervention during the acute phase and rehabilitation are important for improving clinical outcomes for these patients. However, the importance of management for improving the quality of life of these patients is becoming more emphasized. Studies on changes in sleep patterns after hip fractures are rare overseas. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of sleep disturbance in patients with hip fractures and to analyze the changes in sleep disturbance after surgery by comparing the preoperative and postoperative results. Materials and Methods: During the period from August 2022 to January 2023, patients who underwent surgical treatment for hip fractures and were recruited into the REAL Hip Cohort were selected as research subjects. The sleep survey was conducted using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The PSQI is composed of 18 questions, each divided into areas of sleep quality, sleep latency, duration, efficiency, disturbance, use of medication, and daytime dysfunction. Each area is scored 0-3 points and the total is 0-21. A score greater than five indicates sleep disorder. The PSQI was surveyed during hospitalization and three months after surgery for post-fracture sleep status. To analyze changes before and after the fracture, paired T-tests and chi-square tests were performed. Results: From August 2022 to January 2023, a total of 40 patients who were recruited into the REAL Hip Cohort responded to the PSQI survey. The average age was 77.4 years and 36 were female. Sleep quality worsened from 0.75 ± 1.0 before surgery to 1.4 ± 1.0 three months after surgery (p = 0.019), and sleep efficiency also worsened from 0.4 ± 0.6 to 1.4 ± 1.0 (p < 0.001). The PSQI increased from an average of 5.2 ± 2.8 before surgery to 8.2 ± 4.2 three months after surgery (p = 0.007), and the number of patients who could be diagnosed with sleep disorders also increased from 12 (40%) to 24 (60%) (p = 0.030). Conclusions: A decline in overall sleep status was observed in patients in a survey on sleep patterns three months after hip fracture. Additional management is needed to improve their sleep patterns.

Hospital episode-of-care costs for hip fractures: an activity-based costing analysis

Background

Despite the large impact of hip fracture care on hospital budgets, accurate episode-of-care costs (EOCC) calculations for this injury remains a challenge. The objective of this article was to assess EOCC for geriatric patients with hip fractures using an activity-based costing methodology and identify intraoperative, perioperative, and patient-specific factors associated with higher EOCC.

Material and Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study involving a total of 109 consecutive patients with hip fracture treated surgically at a Canadian level-1 trauma center from April 2018 to February 2019. Clinical and demographic data were extracted through the institution's centralized data warehouse. Data acquisition also included direct and indirect costs per episode of care, adverse events, and precise temporal data.

Results

The median total EOCC was $13,113 (interquartile range 6658), excluding physician fees. Out of the total cost, 75% was attributed to direct costs, which represented a median expenditure of $9941. The median indirect cost of the EOCC was $3322. Based on the multivariate analysis, patients not operated within the 48 hours guidelines had an increased length of stay by 5.7 days (P = 0.003), representing an increase in EOCC of close to 5000$. Higher American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) scores were associated with elevated EOCC.

Conclusion

The cost of managing a patient with geriatric hip fracture from arrival in the emergency department to discharge from surgical ward represented $13,113. Main factors influencing the EOCC included adherence to the 48-hour benchmark surgical delay and ASA score. High-quality costing data are vital in assessing health care spending, conducting cost effectiveness analyses, and ultimately in guiding policy decisions.

Level of Evidence

Level III (3), retrospective cohort study.

Evaluation of quality of life and associated factors in patients with intertrochanteric femoral fracture

BACKGROUND

Intertrochanteric fracture is a common injury among the elderly, causing fundamental lifestyle derangements, influencing the patients' social and psychological functioning. We aimed to study the quality of life (QoL) and its different parameters in patients with this type of injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, all patients hospitalized with intertrochanteric fracture aged above 50 from 2020 to 2022 at the Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Babol, Iran, were included. Patients were primarily managed surgically and, in exceptional cases non-surgically, were followed up for at least 12 months after receiving treatment. During the follow-up period, patients were dialled and completed a questionnaire to assess the patient's QoL by the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). QoL parameters were analyzed based on patients' sex, age, type of treatment, and height of fall causing fracture.

RESULT

A total number of 200 patients, including 101 (50.5%) males and 99 (49.5%) females, with a mean age of 74.76±11.36 years (range: 50-99), were included. Regarding the received treatment, 192 (96.0%) patients underwent surgery, and 8 (4.0%) underwent non-surgical treatment. In the study of SF-36 scores, the mean score of male patients was 42.31±14.58, and females scored 37.83±15.35, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.04). The mean score of QoL and its subscales among the 50-75 group patients was significantly higher than the 76-99 group (P<0.001). The average score of QoL was considerably higher in patients who had surgery (40.75±14.57) compared to those who had non-surgical treatment (24.30±19.85) (P = 0.01). Patients having a fall from a higher height had higher QoL after treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that patients with an intertrochanteric femoral fracture had poor QoL in all aspects. The overall QoL was significantly higher among male patients, younger patients, those who underwent surgical treatment, and the falls from higher heights. These findings highlight the necessity of long-term follow-up and support in patients with intertrochanteric fractures.

The internal rotation traction radiograph does not improve the reliability in the AO classification system for pertrochanteric fractures. An inter- and intra-observer reliability assessment

INTRODUCTION

The most universal method for classifying pertrochanteric fractures is the AO/OTA classification. These fractures are classified into different categories according to the features found in the anteroposterior radiograph of the hip. Anteroposterior radiograph of the hip with internal rotation traction can improve the characterization of the fracture. Inter- and intra-observer reliability in any classification is essential to achieve a homogeneous agreement for decision making. Our objective is assessing the overall reliability and by level of experience of the new AO/OTA classification of pertrochanteric fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A hospital registry was used to collect patients with pertrochanteric hip fracture who had anteroposterior radiograph of the hip with and without internal rotation traction. We selected six evaluators stratified by levels of expertise in orthopedic trauma, leaving three groups: advanced, intermediate and beginner. Radiographs were sent through electronic forms and inter- and intra-observer reliability was calculated using the kappa (K) statistic.

RESULTS

115 (one hundred fifteen) patients were included, each with their corresponding anteroposterior radiograph of the hip with and without internal rotation traction. Overall inter- and intra-observer reliability was moderate on both anteroposterior radiographs of the hip with and without internal rotation traction. Regarding the different levels of experience, the advanced level group reached a substantial inter- and intra-observer reliability in both anteroposterior radiographs with and without traction, while the rest of the groups with lower level of experience obtained a lesser reliability.

CONCLUSION

Our study found that the internal rotation traction x-ray did not improve the reliability of the new AO/OTA classification for pertrochanteric fractures, as assessed by inter- and intra-observer agreement, in either the overall group or in groups divided by experience level.

Treating peri-trochanteric hip fractures with intramedullary nail, when a second anti-rotational screw is necessary?

INTRODUCTION

Fragility fractures around the proximal end of the femur have increased in recent years due to an aging population, adding to the pressure on national health care systems and to hospital expenses. Peri-trochanteric fractures have historically been treated successfully with anatomic intramedullary nails, giving stable fixation in order to allow early for mobilisation of these frail patients. Some of these nails allow a second (anti-rotational) screw through the nail into the femoral head. We assessed the use of this additional screw in terms of quality of reduction, post-operative mobilization and complications.

MATERIALS & METHODS

All patients who were treated in the same hospital for peri-trochanteric fracture between January 2017 and December 2019 were included in the study. The patients were randomly assigned into group A, where the treatment included intramedullary nailing using one femoral hip screw, and group B, where the treatment additionally included a second anti-rotational screw. The patients were followed up clinically and radiologically, for at least 3 months post-operatively. Demographic and operative data were collected alongside radiographic and clinical data.

RESULTS

A total of 118 patients with an average age of 82.7 years were included in the study after exclusion criteria was applied. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding the ASA grade, Nottingham Hip fracture score, Koval score, Mental score, operation time, transfusion requirements, and operative radiation dose and time (p > 0.05). In group A, more complications were observed (p < 0.05). The radiographic measurements were statistically significantly different. CART analysis revealed that the use of a single screw in the femoral head for the subgroup of the unstable peri-trochanteric fractures (Jensen Type 4-5 - AO31A2.2 and above), has a tendency toward developing more post-operative complications, though this was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The use of an additional anti-rotational screw for unstable peri-trochanteric fractures (Jensen Type 4-5 and AO 31A2.2 and above) could prevent complications such as varus collapse and cut-out.

Validation of the orthopedic frailty score for measuring frailty in hip fracture patients: a cohort study based on the United States National inpatient sample

BACKGROUND

The Orthopedic Frailty Score (OFS) has been proposed as a tool for measuring frailty in order to predict short-term postoperative mortality in hip fracture patients. This study aims to validate the OFS using a large national patient register to determine its relationship with adverse outcomes as well as length of stay and cost of hospital stay.

METHODS

All adult patients (18 years or older) registered in the 2019 National Inpatient Sample Database who underwent emergency hip fracture surgery following a traumatic fall were eligible for inclusion. The association between the OFS and mortality, complications, and failure-to-rescue (FTR) was determined using Poisson regression models adjusted for potential confounders. The relationship between the OFS and length of stay and cost of hospital stay was instead determined using a quantile regression model.

RESULTS

An estimated 227,850 cases met the study inclusion criteria. There was a stepwise increase in the rate of complications, mortality, and FTR for each additional point on the OFS. After adjusting for potential confounding, OFS 4 was associated with an almost ten-fold increase in the risk of in-hospital mortality [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 10.6 (4.02-27.7), p < 0.001], a 38% increased risk of complications [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 1.38 (1.03-1.85), p = 0.032], and an almost 11-fold increase in the risk of FTR [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 11.6 (4.36-30.9), p < 0.001], compared to OFS 0. Patients with OFS 4 also required a day and a half additional care [change in median length of stay (95% CI): 1.52 (0.97-2.08), p < 0.001] as well as cost approximately $5,200 more to manage [change in median cost of stay (95% CI): 5166 (1921-8411), p = 0.002], compared to those with OFS 0.

CONCLUSION

Patients with an elevated OFS display a substantially increased risk of mortality, complications, and failure-to-rescue as well as a prolonged and more costly hospital stay.

Comparison of post-op opioid use and pain between short and long cephalomedullary nails in elderly intertrochanteric fractures

PURPOSE

It remains unknown if cephalomedullary nail (CMN) length has an impact on pain and opioid use following fixation. Given the lack of level I evidence favoring a specific CMN length to prevent adverse surgical outcomes, we investigated if CMN length impacts acute postoperative pain and opioid use. The authors hypothesize that the use of longer CMNs results in increased pain scores and morphine milligram equivalents (MME) intake during the 0-24 h (h) and 24-36 h postoperative period.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed from 2010 to 2020 of patients ≥ 65 years-old who underwent CMN for IT fractures and fractures with subtrochanteric extension (STE). We compared patients who received short and long CMNs using numeric rating scale (NRS) pain scores and MME intake at 0-24 h and 24-36 h postoperatively.

RESULTS

330 patients receiving short (n = 155) and long (n = 175) CMNs met criteria. CMN length was found to not be associated with higher pain scores in the early postoperative phase. However, patients with long CMNs received higher MME from 0-24 h (25.4% estimated mean increase, p value = 0.02) and 24-36 h (22.3% estimated mean increase, p value = 0.04) postoperatively, even after adjusting for covariates, gender, and age.

CONCLUSION

Patients with long CMNs received greater MME postoperatively. Additionally, differences in pain and MME were not significantly different between patients with and without STE, suggesting our findings were not influenced by this pattern. These results suggest longer CMNs are associated with higher acute postoperative opioid intake among patients with IT fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic level III.

The PFNA in treatment of intertrochanteric fractures with or without lateral wall fracture in elderly patients: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus about intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall treated with intramedullary nail-proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA). The aim of the present study was to compare function outcomes between lateral wall and no lateral wall fractures after surgery by PFNA.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated patients with or without lateral wall fractures who underwent PFNA between January 2015 and June 2018. The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, time to fracture healing, complications and functional outcomes qualified by Harris hip score and Parker - Palmer mobility score (PPMS) were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Two groups were comparable with regard to patient age, sexual distribution, mechanism of injury, fracture type, body mass index (BMI), Time to surgery, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and quality of reduction. The incomplete group had a longer operation time (54.1 ± 8.74 min vs. 51.0 ± 9.86 min) and more intraoperative blood loss (228.4 ± 48.8 ml vs. 151.3 ± 43.5 ml) in comparison with the control group (P < 0.01). Regarding functional outcome, the HHSs of the two groups were 76.2 ± 11.6 vs 75.6 ± 12.5 at the 3 months (P = 0.603), 81.9 ± 9.4 vs 82.6 ± 8.7 at the six months (P = 0.224), 83.8 ± 6.6 vs 84.5 ± 6.0 at the twelve months 85.2 ± 5.5 vs 86.0 ± 5.8 at the twenty-four months (P > 0.05), respectively. Similar results were obtained about PPMS. We found no difference in Weight bearing time, Time of fracture healing, and Complications between incomplete group and intact group.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no substantial difference in functional results or complication rates for intertrochanteric fractures with lateral wall fractures, except from increased blood loss and operation time. We believe that an intramedullary nail will be sufficient to repair an intertrochanteric fracture with or without a lateral wall fracture.

Dual-screw versus single-screw cephalomedullary nails for intertrochanteric femoral fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Internal fixation with cephalomedullary nails has been widely used in the treatment of intertrochanteric femoral fractures (IFF). Yet, the difference in efficacy and safety between the commonly used integrated dual-screw cephalomedullary nail (InterTAN) and single-screw cephalomedullary nail remains inconclusive. Thus we performed the present systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational studies comparing InterTAN with proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA), the Asian PFNA (PFNA-II), or the Gamma3 nail in treating IFF were searched on PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library from inception to April 30, 2023. The differences in perioperative parameters and clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated by mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI). The risks of various complications and mortality were assessed by risk ratio (RR) with 95%CI.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies comprising 3566 patients were included. Compared with single-screw cephalomedullary nails (PFNA/PFNA-II, Gamma3), InterTAN conferred significantly reduced risk of implant failures (RR = 0.37, 95%CI 0.26 to 0.51, P < 0.001), hip and thigh pain (RR = 0.70, 95%CI 0.55 to 0.90, P = 0.006) and all-cause revision/reoperation (RR = 0.38, 95%CI 0.26 to 0.57, P < 0.001). Moreover, patients treated with InterTAN had significantly higher 1-year Harris Hip Score (MD = 0.82, 95%CI 0.20-1.44, P = 0.010) and shorter time to union/healing (MD = - 0.66 days, 95%CI  - 1.16 to  - 0.16, P = 0.009). Femoral neck shortening, time to full bearing, and incidences of non-union, infection, deep venous thrombosis, and mortality were comparable between both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated dual-screw InterTAN construct has superior performance in reducing risks of complications and improving clinical and functional outcomes in the treatment of IFF. More well-designed, high-quality RCTs are warranted to confirm these findings.

Organisational factors associated with hospital costs and patient mortality in the 365 days following hip fracture in England and Wales (REDUCE): a record-linkage cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hip fracture care delivery varies between hospitals, which might explain variations in patient outcomes and health costs. The aim of this study was to identify hospital-level organisational factors associated with long-term patient outcomes and costs after hip fracture.

METHODS

REDUCE was a record-linkage cohort study in which national databases for all patients aged 60 years and older who sustained a hip fracture in England and Wales were linked with hospital metrics from 18 organisational data sources. Multilevel models identified organisational factors associated with the case-mix adjusted primary outcomes: cumulative all-cause mortality, days spent in hospital, and inpatient costs over 365 days after hip fracture.

FINDINGS

Between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2019, 178 757 patients with an index hip fracture were identified from 172 hospitals in England and Wales. 126 278 (70·6%) were female, 52 479 (29·4%) were male, and median age was 84 years (IQR 77-89) in England and 83 years (77-89) in Wales. 365 days after hip fracture, 50 354 (28·2%) patients had died. Patients spent a median 21 days (IQR 11-41) in hospital, incurring costs of £14 642 (95% CI 14 600-14 683) per patient, ranging from £10 867 (SD 5880) to £23 188 (17 223) between hospitals. 11 organisational factors were independently associated with mortality, 24 with number of days in hospital, and 25 with inpatient costs. Having all patients assessed by an orthogeriatrician within 72 h of admission was associated with a mean cost saving of £529 (95% CI 148-910) per patient and a lower 365-day mortality (odds ratio 0·85 [95% CI 0·76-0·94]). Consultant orthogeriatrician attendance at clinical governance meetings was associated with cost savings of £356 (95% CI 188-525) and 1·47 fewer days (95% CI 0·89-2·05) in the hospital in the 365 days after hip fracture per patient. The provision of physiotherapy to patients on weekends was associated with a cost saving of £676 (95% CI 67-1285) per patient and with 2·32 fewer days (0·35-4·29) in hospital in the 365 days after hip fracture.

INTERPRETATION

Multiple, potentially modifiable hospital-level organisational factors associated with important clinical outcomes and inpatient costs were identified that should inform initiatives to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of hip fracture services.

FUNDING

Versus Arthritis.

Influencing factors on morbidity and mortality in intertrochanteric fractures

We aimed to evaluate the effect of the patient's clinical and paraclinical condition before and after surgery on short-term mortality and complication and long-term mortality. A retrospective cohort study was conducted and multivariate logistic regression was applied to determine the effect of demographic characteristics (sex, age, AO/OTA classification, height, weight, body mass index), medical history (hypertension, ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, thyroid malfunction, cancer, osteoporosis, smoking) lab data (Complete blood cell, blood sugar, Blood Urea Nitrogen, Creatinine, Na, and K), surgery-related factors (Anesthesia time and type, implant, intraoperative blood transfusion, postoperative blood transfusion, and operation time), duration of admission to surgery and anticoagulant consumption on short-term mortality and complication and long-term mortality. Three hundred ten patients from November 2016 to September 2020 were diagnosed with an intertrochanteric fracture. 3.23% of patients died in hospital, 14.1% of patients confronted in-hospital complications, and 38.3% died after discharge till the study endpoint. ΔNumber of Neutrophiles is the primary determinant for in-hospital mortality in multivariate analysis. Age and blood transfusion are the main determinants of long-term mortality, and Na before surgery is the primary variable associated with postoperative complications. Among different analytical factors Na before surgery as a biomarker presenting dehydration was the main prognostic factor for in hospital complications. In hospital mortality was mainly because of infection and long-term mortality was associated with blood transfusion.

The development, incidence and treatment trends of trochanteric fractures in Germany: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hip fractures are a major public health problem worldwide and can lead to disability, increased mortality, and reduced quality of life. We aim to provide a nationwide epidemiological analysis of trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures and their respective surgical treatments.

METHODS

Data were retrieved from the national database of the German Department of the Interior. ICD-10-GM and OPS data from the period of 2006 to 2020 were analysed and all patients with trochanteric and subtrochanteric fractures as their main diagnosis, who were treated in a German hospital, were included. Patients were grouped by age and gender and linear regression was performed where suitable to calculate statistically significant correlations between variables and incidences.

RESULTS

985,104 pertrochanteric fractures and 178,810 subtrochanteric fractures were reported during the analysed period. We calculated a mean incidence of 80.08 ± 6.34 for pertrochanteric and 14.53 ± 1.50 for subtrochanteric fractures per million inhabitants. In both fracture types, a distinct dependence of incidence on age can be determined. Incidence rates equally rise in both sexes through the age groups with an increase of about 288-fold from those under the age of 60 to those over the age of 90 in pertrochanteric fractures, and about 123-fold in subtrochanteric fractures. Intramedullary nailing was the most common kind of treatment for both fracture types with augmentative cerclages on the rise throughout the whole period. Plate and dynamic compression screws were decreasing in frequency over the analysed period in both fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

We provided incidence data on per- and subtrochanteric fractures and their treatment. We calculated an economic impact of approximately 1.563 billion € per year in Germany. With regards to recent literature on costs of treatment and our findings regarding the implementation and utilization of different treatment methods, we conclude that the reinforcement of nationwide prevention programs is a relevant step in lessening the economic burden. We welcome the increased utilisation of intramedullary nailing as many studies show beneficiary outcomes and cost effectiveness in most of the included fracture types.