High inter-tester reliability of the new mobility score in patients with hip fracture

Association between patient activation level and functional outcomes in older adults with hip fractures

BACKGROUND

Hip fractures can significantly impact older adults' mobility and function. Effective rehabilitation is crucial to help them regain independence and quality of life. However, little is known about the association between patient activation and hip fracture rehabilitation. This study aims to assess the association between the PAM-13 scores and the level of physical function, mobility, and activities of daily living in older adults following a hip fracture rehabilitation program.

METHOD

An exploratory outcome study from a cluster-randomized stepped-wedge clinical controlled trial. Two hundred thirty-nine patients were classified into four Patient Activation Measure-Levels (PAM-13) according to their PAM-13 scores, reflecting their confidence and preparedness to manage their health. Level 1 represents the lowest level of confidence. The patient's mobility, function, and daily activities were evaluated at discharge and after 12 and 24 weeks.

RESULTS

The cohort had a median age of 78; 67% were female, and 50% lived alone. There were no significant differences in demographics between the PAM-Levels. PAM-Level 1 patients had longer hospital stays and lower mobility scores than PAM-Level 4 patients. However, all patients improved over time, and higher initial PAM levels resulted in better outcomes. PAM-Level 1 patients improved in Time Up and Go score from a median score of 54 seconds to 14 seconds at 24 weeks, while PAM-Level 4 patients improved from 26 to 9 seconds.

CONCLUSION

Our study found an association between PAM levels and functional outcomes in hip fracture rehabilitation. Patients with higher activation levels had better mobility and functional outcomes.

Informal care after hip fracture: prospective cohort

BACKGROUND

Hip fracture is very common and it has life-shattering consequences for older persons. After discharge the older persons need help with even basic everyday activities from formal and informal caregivers. In Scandinavia formal care are well-developed however the presence of informal caregivers likely reflect on the amount of formal care and wears on the informal caregivers. This study explore how often and how much informal care (IC) older persons receive after hip fracture.

METHOD

We contacted 244 community-dwelling older persons every two weeks the first twelve weeks after discharge after hip fracture and asked them if they received care from family and/or friends and how much. We used non-parametric statistics and level of significance was 95%.

RESULTS

The proportion of older persons receiving IC was 90% and the median amount of IC was 32 hours (IQR 14-66). The number of older persons who received IC was highest the first four weeks after discharge and so was the amount of hours of IC. The older persons that were high-dependence on IC received a median of 66 (IQR 46-107) hours compared to the low-dependent of 11 hours (IQR 2-20).

CONCLUSION

IC is very frequent, especially the first two to four weeks after discharge. The median IC was 32 hours from discharge to the 12-week follow-up. However, this figure tended to rise for persons with, among other, reduced functionality and those residing with a partner.

IMPLICATIONS

With respect to local differences, the findings in this study are likely applicable to other Scandinavian countries. We strongly suggest that the variation in older person need for informal caregiver be given consideration in the prioritisation of resources.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This prospective cohort study of informal care, was part of a cluster-randomised stepped-wedge clinical controlled trial. Written consent was obtained required by regional ethics committee S-20200070. Data was collected in accordance with the Danish Data Protection Agency (20-21854).

Construct validity, responsiveness and minimal important difference of the cumulated ambulation score in older adults with hip fracture in sub-acute rehabilitation facility

OBJECTIVE

To assess the construct validity, responsiveness and minimal important difference of the cumulated ambulation score in patients with hip fracture in sub-acute rehabilitation facility.

DESIGN

Observational, prospective, monocenter, cohort study.

SETTING

Rehabilitation Institute.

PARTICIPANTS

456 older adults with hip fracture (≥65 years) admitted for inpatient rehabilitation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Cumulated ambulation score, functional independence measure and functional ambulation category were collected at admission and discharge. Construct validity and responsiveness were assessed through hypothesis testing and minimal important difference was determined using the anchor-based method; floor and ceiling effects were also assessed.

RESULTS

The cumulated ambulation score showed strong correlations with the functional independence measure and functional ambulation category scores at both admission and discharge, satisfying all the hypotheses for construct validity. The effect size of cumulated ambulation score was 1.63. Changes in cumulated ambulation score had a moderate-to-strong correlation with changes of other instruments and were able to discriminate patients improved from those not-improved, and patients classified as independent ambulators from those dependent. A ceiling effect was found only at discharge. The estimated minimal important difference was 2 points.

CONCLUSIONS

The cumulated ambulation score showed high levels of construct validity and responsiveness according to the hypothesis testing. A two points improvement at the end of rehabilitation was found to be clinically important in people with hip fracture in the sub-acute phase. The ceiling effect found at discharge suggested the limitation of the scale in assessing people with a partially recovered autonomy in performing postural changes and gait.

Intensified acute in-hospital physiotherapy for patients after hip fracture surgery: a pragmatic, randomized, controlled feasibility trial

PURPOSE

Intensified acute in-hospital physiotherapy (IP) after hip fracture (HF) may enhance patient's ability to regain basic mobility at discharge. The primary objective was to assess the feasibility of IP. Secondary to estimate the effect of IP on regained basic mobility at discharge.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a pragmatic, randomized, unblinded feasibility trial, 60 patients (mean age 79 years, 41 women) with HF and an independent pre-fracture basic mobility level were randomized (2:1) to IP with two daily sessions on weekdays focusing on functional training and weight-bearing activities (n = 40) versus usual care (UC) physiotherapy once daily (n = 20). Feasibility outcomes included physiotherapy completion rates, reasons for non-successful completion, and adverse events. The primary effect outcome was recovery of basic mobility (Cumulated Ambulation Score (CAS)).

RESULTS

Eighty-two percent of the sessions in the IP group were successfully- or partially completed versus 94% of the sessions in the UC group. No adverse events occurred. The main reason for not completing physiotherapy was fatigue. At discharge (median 7 days), 50% in the IP group had regained their pre-fracture basic mobility level (CAS = 6) versus 16% in the UC group; odds ratio = 5.33, 95%CI [1.3;21.5].

CONCLUSIONS

IP seems feasible for patients after HF surgery, and it may enhance recovery. Fatigue was the primary obstacle to completing IP.

Optimized Refeeding vs. Standard Care in Malnourished Older Hospitalized Patients: A Prospective, Non-Randomized Cluster-Controlled Study in Geriatric Acute Care

Malnutrition is a prevalent geriatric syndrome with adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an optimized protocol for treatment of malnutrition in older hospitalized patients. We conducted a prospective, non-randomized cluster-controlled study with 156 malnourished patients in the intervention and 73 in the control group, determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short-Form. The intervention group received individualized nutritional care, including electrolyte and micronutrients monitoring, while the control received standard care. We primarily focused on complications such as infections, falls, unplanned hospital readmissions, and mortality, and secondarily focused on functional status and mobility improvements. Post-discharge follow-ups occurred at 3 and 6 months. Our findings demonstrated that the intervention group (age 82.3 ± 7.5 y, 69% female), exhibited greater previous weight loss (11.5 kg vs. 4.7 kg), more cognitive impairment and a longer hospital stay (19 days vs. 15 days). Binary logistic regression showed no difference in primary endpoint outcomes between groups during hospitalization. At 3- and 6-month follow-ups, the control group exhibited fewer adverse outcomes, particularly falls and readmissions. Both groups showed in-hospital functional improvements, but only controls maintained post-discharge mobility gains. The study concludes that the nutritional intervention did not outperform standard care, potentially due to study limitations and high-quality standard care in control group geriatric departments.

Clinical effects of different center of rotation reconstructions in total hip arthroplasty after femoral neck fractures: a cohort study including a follow-up analysis on patient's mobility and daily living ability

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is a clinical evaluation of the center of rotation (COR) placement towards a patient's recovery with respect to daily living ability and mobility. In past experiments based on three-dimensional (3D) models, medialization of the COR in total hip arthroplasty (THA) showed a negative influence on muscle strength of the abductors and reaction force of the hip joint. This contradicts paradigms, where reduced hip loading forces are claimed to increase functional outcomes.

METHODS

The plain X-rays of 110 patients who underwent THA after a femoral neck fracture between January 2019 and January 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. A Barthel Index on discharge was obtained in 69 cases. 47 patients were available for a follow-up interview concerning the Barthel Index, Parker mobility score (PMS), and pain levels (NRS) 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Medialization of the COR had a significantly negative effect on the need for care (Barthel Index) at patient discharge (Spearman correlation 0.357, p = 0.013). The effect on the PMS is still existent at 6 and 12 months (Spearman correlation 0.471, p = 0.009 at 6 months; 0.472, p = 0.008 at 12 months). Mann-Whitney U tests showed that the groups with medialized COR performed significantly worse than the lateralized groups. This was seen for the Barthel Index at discharge and at 6 months after surgery and for the PMS at 6 and 12 months. The accurately reconstructed CORs showed no significant differences from the lateralized rotation centers in need of care and mobility. The superior COR placement group showed significantly reduced mobility at 12 months in contrast to the inferior COR placement group (p = 0.008), and the group of accurately reconstructed rotation centers showed significantly less pain than the inferior COR placement group (p = 0.007 after 6 months, p = 0.026 after 12 months). Especially the combination of both (superomedialization) leads to reduced mobility (Spearman correlation 0.67, p =  < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

COR superior displacement, COR medialization, and the combination of both (superomedialization, Spearman p =  < 0.001) lead to reduced mobility while inferior displacement showed increased pain. According to our results, we recommend an exact vertical COR restoration, while horizontal medial displacement needs to be avoided.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Standardization of global hip fracture audit could facilitate learning, improve quality, and guide evidence-based practice

Aims

National hip fracture registries audit similar aspects of care but there is variation in the actual data collected; these differences restrict international comparison, benchmarking, and research. The Fragility Fracture Network (FFN) published a revised minimum common dataset (MCD) in 2022 to improve consistency and interoperability. Our aim was to assess compatibility of existing registries with the MCD.

Methods

We compared 17 hip fracture registries covering 20 countries (Argentina; Australia and New Zealand; China; Denmark; England, Wales, and Northern Ireland; Germany; Holland; Ireland; Japan; Mexico; Norway; Pakistan; the Philippines; Scotland; South Korea; Spain; and Sweden), setting each of these against the 20 core and 12 optional fields of the MCD.

Results

The highest MCD adherence was demonstrated by the most recently established registries. The first-generation registries in Scandinavia collect data for 60% of MCD fields, second-generation registries (UK, other European, and Australia and New Zealand) collect for 75%, and third-generation registries collect data for 85% of MCD fields. Five of the 20 core fields were collected by all 17 registries (age; sex; surgery date/time of operation; surgery type; and death during acute admission). Two fields were collected by most (16/17; 94%) registries (date/time of presentation and American Society of Anesthesiologists grade), and five more by the majority (15/17; 88%) registries (type, side, and pathological nature of fracture; anaesthetic modality; and discharge destination). Three core fields were each collected by only 11/17 (65%) registries: prefracture mobility/activities of daily living; cognition on admission; and bone protection medication prescription.

Conclusion

There is moderate but improving compatibility between existing registries and the FFN MCD, and its introduction in 2022 was associated with an improved level of adherence among the most recently established programmes. Greater interoperability could be facilitated by improving consistency of data collection relating to prefracture function, cognition, bone protection, and follow-up duration, and this could improve international collaborative benchmarking, research, and quality improvement.

In-hospital waiting time to surgery and functional outcomes in geriatric hip fractures: a directed acyclic graph-based preplanned analysis from a prospective multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

The early recovery of hip function after hip fracture surgery values more attention, especially for patients with delayed surgery of longer than 48 h. We aim to evaluate the associations of in-hospital surgical waiting time with the functional outcomes [Harris Hip Score (HHS), Parker Mobility Score (PMS), and EuroQol 5 dimensions VAS (visual analogue scale) score (EQ-5D VAS)] in elderly patients who sustained hip fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on sociodemographic and clinical factors were prospectively collected using a multicenter hip fracture registry system. Participants in the cohort underwent a 12-month follow-up investigation. After adjusting potential confounders identified by the directed acyclic graphs, the associations between surgical waiting time longer than 48 h and functional outcomes were estimated by log-binomial regression and multivariable linear regression models with generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Of 863 survival participants with available functional data at 12 months after surgery, an increased risk was obtained from receiving surgery after 48 h and the poor functional outcomes (HHS<80: relative risk (RR)=1.56, 95% CI: 1.00-2.51; PMS<7: RR=1.49, 95% CI: 1.13-2.01; EQ-5D VAS<80: RR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.57-2.47). In-hospital waiting time greater than 48 h were time-invariantly associated with lower PMS during recovery (-0.44 units 95% CI: -0.70 to -0.18). In addition, delayed surgery was time-varying associated with HHS and EQ-5D VAS.

CONCLUSIONS

The associations between in-hospital waiting time and postoperative functional score suggest that delayed surgery can lead to poor functional outcomes, especially in patients waiting longer than 72 h from injury. Delayed surgery mainly impacted hip function and mobility recovery with a slower speed in early recovery of the first 3 months. More attention should be paid to mechanisms behind the associations between delayed surgery on general healthy status.

The majority of community-dwelling hip fracture patients return to independent living with minor increase in care needs: a prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Hip fracture patients are fragile, and the majority fail to fully recover to their pre-fracture functional level, resulting in an increase in institutionalization. We aimed to investigate risk factors for being dependent at discharge and for failure to return to independent living 12 months after a hip fracture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2011 to 2017, all surgically treated hip fracture patients admitted from their own homes were included in this prospective cohort study. Patient characteristics were registered, including age, sex, lifestyle, comorbidities, pre-fracture New Mobility Score (NMS), biochemical measures, fracture type, and surgical method. Dependency was measured at discharge using a cumulated ambulatory score (CAS < 6) and the timed-up-and-go test (TUG > 20 s). At 12 months, patients were interviewed regarding residence, NMS, and care needs. Multivariable logistic regression was used, reporting odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 2006 patients were included in the study with data regarding their hospital stay and discharge. In all, 1342 patients underwent follow-up at 12 months. The risk factors found to be associated with dependency at discharge were mostly static. Modifiable variables associated with dependency at discharge (CAS < 6) were hypoalbuminemia (OR: 1.94, 95% CI 1.38-2.71), not having been mobilized to standing within 24 h (OR: 1.88, 95% CI 1.12-3.15), and general anesthesia (OR: 1.35, 95% CI 1.07-1.71). Failure to return to independent living at 12 months was found in 10% of the patients, and was primarily associated with patient characteristics and proxy variables for comorbidities, but also with dependency at discharge (CAS < 6).

CONCLUSIONS

Mobilizing patients to standing within 24 h from hip fracture surgery was vital in maximizing short-term functional recovery. Failure to return to independent living was seen in the frailest patients. However, the majority remained in their own home with little increase in care needs.

Rehabilitation for life: the effect on physical function of rehabilitation and care in older adults after hip fracture-study protocol for a cluster-randomised stepped-wedge trial

Background

A hip fracture is a serious event for older adults, given that approximately 50% do not regain their habitual level of physical function, and the mortality rate is high, as is the number of readmissions. The gap in healthcare delivery, as separated into two financial and self-governing sectors, might be a contributing cause of inferior rehabilitation and care for these patients. Therefore, we aim to assess the effect of continuous and progressive rehabilitation and care across sectors for older adults after hip fracture.

Methods/design

The project is designed as a stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial. The study population of patients are older adults 65 years of age and above discharged after a hip fracture and healthcare professionals in primary and secondary care (municipalities and hospitals). Healthcare professionals from different sectors (hospital and municipalities) will be engaged in the empowerment-orientated praxis, through a workshop for healthcare professionals with knowledge sharing to the older adults using a digital health application (app). The rehabilitation intervention consists of 12 weeks of progressive resistance exercises initiated 1–2 days after discharge. To improve communication across sectors, a videoconference involving the patient and physiotherapists from both sectors will be conducted. On day, 3 after discharge, an outreach nurse performs a thorough assessment including measurement of vital signs. A hotline to the hospital for medical advice is a part of the intervention. The intervention is delivered as an add-on to the usual rehabilitation and care, and it involves one regional hospital and the municipalities within the catchment area of the hospital. The primary outcome is a Timed Up and Go Test 8 weeks post-surgery.

Discussion

Using a stepped-wedge design, the intervention will be assessed as well as implemented in hospital and municipalities, hopefully for the benefit of older adults after hip fracture. Furthermore, the collaboration between the sectors is expected to improve.

Trial registration

The study is approved by the Regional Scientific Ethics Committees of Southern Denmark (S-20200070) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (20-21854). Registered 9 of June 2020 at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04424186.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-022-06321-w.

Effectiveness of a bandage to prevent re-dislocation after total hip arthroplasty in patients with a previous hip dislocation. A randomized controlled trial with 12-week follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if using a hip bandage is more effective than standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in patients with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation.

DESIGN

randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Holstebro Regional Hospital and Viborg Regional Hospital.

SUBJECTS

A total of 99 patients, 51 women, mean 70.7 (SD 9.9) years were enrolled in an un-blinded, clinical randomized controlled trial.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants with at least one previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation were randomized to either wearing a bandage reducing flexion, adduction, and internal rotation of the hip (intervention group) or to standard care (control group). The participants were followed for 12 weeks. Main follow-up measures were as follows: number of re-dislocations (primary outcome), hip disability measured with the Oxford Hip Score (0-48, 48 best), quality of life measured with the 36-Item Short Form Survey (0-100, 100 best), satisfaction with treatment and serious adverse events. Statistical analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

No significant group differences were observed for the primary outcome re-dislocations (9 versus 15, P = 0.143) or for disability (11.3 versus 14.4, P = 0.161), quality of life (57.7 versus 48.3, P = 0.050) or satisfaction with treatment (P = 0.562). There were 3 serious adverse events leading to total hip arthroplasty revision in the intervention group and 4 in the control group.

CONCLUSION

We found that a hip bandage is not superior to standard care in the prevention of total hip arthroplasty re-dislocation in those with a previous total hip arthroplasty dislocation.

Development of Clinical Prediction Rules for One-Year Postoperative Functional Outcome in Patients with Intertrochanteric Fractures: The Intertrochanteric Fracture Ambulatory Prediction (IT-AP) Tool

Individualized prediction of postoperative ambulatory status for patients with intertrochanteric fractures is clinically relevant, during both preoperative and intraoperative periods. This study intended to develop clinical prediction rules (CPR) to predict one-year postoperative functional outcomes in patients with intertrochanteric fractures. CPR development was based on a secondary analysis of a retrospective cohort of patients with intertrochanteric fractures aged ≥50 years who underwent a surgical fixation. Good ambulatory status was defined as a New Mobility Score ≥ 5. Two CPR for preoperative and intraoperative predictions were derived using clinical profiles and surgical-related parameters using logistic regression with the multivariable fractional polynomial procedure. In this study, 221 patients with intertrochanteric fractures were included. Of these, 160 (72.4%) had good functional status at one year. The preoperative model showed an acceptable AuROC of 0.77 (95% CI 0.70 to 0.85). After surgical-related parameters were incorporated into the preoperative model, the model discriminative ability was significantly improved to an AuROC of 0.83 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.88) (p = 0.021). The newly-derived CPR enable physicians to provide patients with intertrochanteric fractures with their individualized predictions of functional outcome one year after surgery, which could be used for risk communication, surgical optimization and tailoring postoperative care that fits patients’ expectations.

Six Versus 12 Weeks of Outpatient Physical Therapy Including Progressive Resistance Training in Cognitively Intact Older Adults After Hip Fracture: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Recovery of function and regaining muscle strength is challenging after hip fracture. We compared the effectiveness of a 12 versus 6-weeks outpatient physical therapy program with progressive resistive training (PRT) to increase strength and physical performance.

METHODS

This parallel, superiority, 2-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in 4 clinics enrolled community-dwelling, cognitively intact older adults (+60 years) with a surgical repair of a hip fracture and no major medical conditions. Participants received 12 or 6-weeks of PRT and standardized physical therapy, twice weekly. Pain was monitored throughout. Primary outcome was the change in the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) from baseline to 12-weeks follow-up. Randomization via a computer-generated allocation sequence was implemented using sealed, sequentially numbered opaque envelopes and assessors were blinded to group assignment.

RESULTS

Participants (81% women) with a mean (SD) age of 77 (8.1) years were enrolled at an average of 18 days post-hip fracture surgery and randomized into a 12-week group (n=50) or a 6-week group (n=50). A mean (SD) change score in the 6MWT of 143.8 (81.1) and 161.5 (84.1) meters found in the 12 and 6-week group, respectively (both exceeding the minimal clinically important difference of 55 meters). The mean between-group difference was -17.7 (95%CI -50.1, 14.8) meter. Pain during training did not exceed moderate levels nor increase as training intensity increased.

CONCLUSION

Twelve weeks of physical therapy with PRT was not superior to 6-weeks in improving walking distance. Hip fracture-related pain was relatively low and indicated strength testing and training was well tolerated.

Prognostic Factors of 1-Year Postoperative Functional Outcomes of Older Patients with Intertrochanteric Fractures in Thailand: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Restoration of ambulatory status is considered a primary treatment goal for older patients with intertrochanteric fractures. Several surgical-related parameters were reported to be associated with mechanical failure without focusing on the functional outcomes. Our study examines the roles of both clinical and surgical parameters as prognostic factors on 1-year postoperative ambulatory outcomes, reaching a good functional outcome (the New Mobility Score: NMS ≥ 5) and returning to preinjury functional status at one year, of older patients with intertrochanteric fracture. Intertrochanteric fractures patients age ≥65 years who underwent surgical treatment at our institute between January 2017 and February 2020 were included. Of 209 patients included, 149 (71.3%) showed a good functional outcome at one year. The pre-injury ambulatory status (OR 52.72, 95%CI 5.19–535.77, p = 0.001), BMI <23 kg/m² (OR 3.14, 95%CI 1.21–8.13, p = 0.018), Hb ≥10 g/dL (OR 3.26, 95%CI 1.11–9.57, p = 0.031), and NMS at discharge ≥2 (OR 8.50, 95%CI 3.33–21.70, p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors for reaching a good postoperative functional outcome. Only aged ≤80 (OR 2.34, 95%CI 1.11–4.93, p = 0.025) and NMS at discharge ≥2 (OR 6.27, 95%CI 2.75–14.32, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with an ability to return to preinjury function. To improve postoperative ambulatory status, orthopedic surgeons should focus more on modifying factors, such as maintaining the preoperative hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL and providing adequate postoperative ambulation training to maximize the patients’ capability upon discharge. While surgical parameters were not identified as predictors, they can still be used as guidance to optimize the operation quality.

Is the Parker Mobility Score in the older patient with a traumatic hip fracture associated with discharge disposition after surgery? A retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The research questions for this study were as follows: (1) is the Parker Mobility Score (PMS) associated with discharge disposition and hospital length of stay (HLOS) of geriatric traumatic hip fracture patients? (2) Can the PMS be incorporated in a decision tree for the prediction of discharge disposition of geriatric traumatic hip fracture patients upon admittance.

METHODS

A dual-center retrospective cohort study was conducted at two level II trauma centers. All patients aged 70 years and older with traumatic hip fractures undergoing surgery in 2018 and 2019 were included consecutively (n = 649). A χ² automatic interaction detection analysis was performed to determine the association of the PMS (and other variables) with discharge disposition and HLOS and predict discharge destination.

RESULTS

The decision tree for discharge disposition classified patients with an overall accuracy of 82.1% and a positive predictive value of 91% for discharge to a rehabilitation facility. The PMS had the second most significant effect on discharge disposition (χ² = 22.409, p < 0.001) after age (χ² = 79.094, p < 0.001). Regarding the tree analysis of HLOS, of all variables in the analysis, PMS had the most significant association with HLOS (F = 14.891, p < 0.001). Patients who were discharged home had a mean HLOS of 6.5 days (SD 8.0), whereas patients who were discharged to an institutional care facility had a mean HLOS of 9.7 days (SD 6.4; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that the PMS was strongly associated with discharge disposition and HLOS. The decision tree for the discharge disposition of geriatric traumatic hip fracture patients offers a practical solution to start discharge planning upon admittance which could potentially reduce HLOS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, diagnostic.

What Is the Likelihood of Union After Coronal Limb Realignment Using Revision Osteosynthesis and Concurrent TKA in Patients with Advanced Arthritis and Loss of Fixation After Distal Metaphyseal Femur Fractures?

BACKGROUND

Metaphyseal fracture healing in the distal femur requires a stable biomechanical environment. The presence of arthritis-induced coronal-plane knee deformities can cause deviation of the mechanical axis, which results in asymmetric loading and increased bending forces in fractures of the distal femur metaphysis. This predisposes patients to nonunions or loss of fixation. Concurrent TKA during revision osteosynthesis might facilitate fracture healing, owing to its ability to correct coronal alignment, thereby restoring normal loading patterns at the fracture site, but to our knowledge, this has not been studied.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Does TKA with concurrent revision internal fixation achieve fracture union in patients with coronal-plane deformity from knee arthritis and nonunion or loss of fixation in distal metaphyseal femoral fractures? (2) What is the survivorship and what are the short-term functional outcomes after these reconstructions? (3) What complications occur after these reconstructions?

METHODS

Between 2015 and 2018, one surgeon treated 16 patients with a distal metaphyseal femur fracture nonunion and/or loss of fixation using concurrent TKA plus revision internal fixation. Autologous iliac crest bone grafting was performed in five patients with evident gaps at the fracture site. The indications for the procedure included patients older than 55 years of age presenting with a nonunion and/or loss of fixation of a distal metaphyseal femur fracture in the setting of painful Ahlbäck Grade III to V knee arthritis with an associated coronal-plane deformity. All patients meeting these indications were treated with this approach during the study period. Fracture union assessed by radiological bridging of at least three cortices, TKA survival free from revision due to any reason, coronal-plane correction using tibiofemoral angle, and patient mobility status assessed presurgery and at follow-up using the Parker mobility score (scored 0-9 points, with 9 indicating best mobility) were assessed by two surgeons who were not involved in the care of the study patients. Immediate and delayed complications were recorded. Patients were followed for a minimum of 24 months. The median (range) follow-up was 38 months (27 to 52 months).

RESULTS

All fractures united after concurrent TKA plus revision internal fixation. In all, 14 of 16 fractures healed before 5 months, while the remaining two fractures united by 6 months. Survivorship analysis revealed a TKA component survival of 94% (95% CI 63% to 99%) at 52 months. The median (range) preoperative Parker mobility score of 5 points (3 to 8) improved to 7 points (2 to 9) at 12 months postoperatively and was maintained at last follow-up (p = 0.001). Four patients experienced complications; these were (1) prolonged surgical wound drainage resulting in debridement and polyethylene liner exchange, (2) deep knee infection needing a staged revision, (3) popliteal vein thrombosis, and (4) prolonged graft site pain.

CONCLUSION

Concurrent TKA plus revision internal fixation is effective for achieving union in patients with distal metaphyseal femur nonunion and loss of fixation in the setting of coronal-plane deformity induced by knee arthritis. Short-term TKA survival and improvement in patient mobility are excellent, although 4 of 16 patients in this report experienced complications, as one might expect with a procedure of this magnitude. Based on our results, correction of arthritis-induced coronal-plane knee malalignment can be considered part of the surgical strategy when treating such distal metaphyseal femur nonunions. Better preoperative evaluation of the deformity and control-based comparative studies can further validate the utility of this technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, therapeutic study.

Trends in hip fracture care in the Republic of Ireland from 2013 to 2018: results from the Irish Hip Fracture Database

Hip fractures continue to be one of the most serious and costly injuries suffered by older people globally. This paper describes the development of a national hip fracture audit and summarises the first 6 years of data from the Republic of Ireland. This can help inform care, standards and outcomes of hip fracture patients.

INTRODUCTION

Ireland has one of the highest standardised rates of hip fracture in the world behind northern European countries. The Irish Hip Fracture Database (IHFD) was established in 2012 to drive clinical and organisational improvements in quality and effectiveness of hip fracture care. This paper describes the progression of the IHFD between 2013 and 2018 and identifies trends and areas for improvement.

METHODS

The IHFD is a clinically led, web-based audit, with data collected through the national Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) electronic system, the principal source of information from publicly funded acute hospitals in Ireland. Eligible cases are aged ≥ 60 years with hip fracture as defined by IHFD or with other specified hip fracture excluding periprosthetic fractures. As of 2015, all 16 trauma-receiving hospitals within Ireland submitted data. Demographics and adherence to six national quality standards are described.

RESULTS

A total of 17,983 cases were included in the analysis. National coverage has increased from 63% in 2013 to 99% in 2018. Demographic characteristics are unchanged, but higher levels of comorbidity are seen. Internal fixation and hemiarthroplasty are the most common modes of surgical repair with two-thirds of cases receiving spinal rather than general anaesthesia. Increasingly patients are being assessed by a geriatrician (11% in 2013 to 69% in 2018) and receive a bone health assessment (65% in 2013 to 84% in 2018).

CONCLUSION

While some hip fracture standards have improved, further improvements are required to compare favourably internationally. Reduction of surgical delay and ensuring early mobilisation post-operatively are immediate priorities for the IHFD.

Prevalence of sarcopenia and the association of sarcopenia, premorbid factors, early functional outcome and 1-year mortality in Hong Kong Chinese fragility hip fracture patients

Background/purpose:

Sarcopenia is a predictor of fall, which is a leading cause of fragility hip fractures (FHF). Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a costly measurement method for sarcopenia. Rehabilitation and prognosis can be determined by early functional outcomes. Meanwhile, 1-year mortality of FHF patients is high.

Aims:

(i) To report the prevalence of sarcopenia. (ii) To investigate the relationships of sarcopenia, premorbid factors, early functional outcomes and 1-year mortality in Hong Kong Chinese FHF patients.

Methods:

FHF patients admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Hong Kong from April 2016 to March 2017 were reviewed, including outcomes of relative appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (RASM), handgrip strength (HGS), New Mobility Score (NMS), Modified Functional Ambulation Classification (MFAC), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Cumulated Ambulation Score (CAS), Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) and 1-year mortality.

Results:

One hundred sixty nine FHF patients, aged 82.68 ± 7.32 years, were reviewed. Prevalence of sarcopenia in male and female were 71.4% and 37.7%, respectively. RASM was correlated with HGS of both dominant ( r = 0.366, p < 0.001) and non-dominant side ( r = 0.383, p < 0.001), NMS ( rs = 0.239, p < 0.001), MFAC ( rs = 0.192, p = 0.013), MBI ( rs = 0.182, p = 0.018) and CAS ( rs = 0.183, p = 0.019). RASM was not significantly correlated with EMS-1 ( rs = 0.050, p = 0.525) and EMS-DC ( rs = 0.092, p = 0.249). There was significant correlation between Sarcopenia and EMS-DC ( rrb = −0.226, p = 0.004). Sarcopenia was marginally not associated with 1-year mortality ( χ 2 = 3.745, p = 0.053). One-year mortality of FHF patients with Sarcopenia and without Sarcopenia were 16.5% and 7.1%, respectively. FHF patients with Sarcopenia were not statistically significant to be more likely to face mortality within 1 year ( R 2 = 0.030, OR = 2.638, p = 0.060).

Conclusions:

Prevalence of sarcopenia was high in FHF patients and RASM was correlated with HGS and NMS, which can be easily administered as screening tools. Sarcopenia was correlated with early functional outcome but not with 1-year mortality. Early detection of Sarcopenia is crucial for early implementation of rehabilitation and treatment.

Physical Therapy Management of Older Adults With Hip Fracture

Hip fracture is a leading cause of profound morbidity in individuals aged 65 years and older, ranking in the top 10 causes of loss of disability-adjusted life-years for older adults. Worldwide, the number of people with hip fracture is expected to rise significantly due to the aging population and other factors. Physical therapist management is recommended within medical, surgical, and multidisciplinary clinical practice guideline (CPGs) and is considered to be the standard of care in rehabilitation for people with hip fracture. The goal of this CPG was to review the evidence relevant to physical therapist management and to provide evidence-based recommendations for physical therapy diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and assessment of outcome in adults with hip fracture. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2021;51(2):CPG1-CPG81. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.0301.

Activity Tracking After Surgery: Does It Correlate With Postoperative Complications?

BACKGROUND

Postoperative ambulation is an important tenet in enhanced recovery programs. We quantitatively assessed the correlation of decreased postoperative ambulation with postoperative complications and delays in gastrointestinal function.

METHODS

Patients undergoing major abdominal surgery were fitted with digital ankle pedometers yielding continuous measurements of their ambulation. Primary endpoints were the overall and system-specific complication rates, with secondary endpoints being the time to first passage of flatus and stool, the length of hospital stay, and the rate of readmission.

RESULTS

100 patients were enrolled. We found a significant, independent inverse correlation between the number of steps on the first and second postoperative days (POD1/2) and the incidence of complications as well as the recovery of GI function and the likelihood of readmission (P < .05). POD2 step count was an independent risk factor for severe complications (P = .026).

DISCUSSION

Digitally quantified ambulation data may be a prognostic biomarker for the likelihood of severe postoperative complications.

Translation, Reliability and Validity of the Spanish Version of the Modified New Mobility Score (NMS-ES)

The New Mobility Score (NMS) is an easy to administer self-report measure of functional ability, and is used worldwide as a hip fracture (HF) score, but a Spanish version does not exist. The aim of the study is to translate NMS into Spanish, and to measure its inter-rater reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity in a sample of Spanish speaking patients with HF. A reliability and validity study with a sample of 60 adults, 65 years or older (46 women and 14 men; mean age 81.7 years) with a hip fracture admitted consecutively to the acute trauma service of the Health Campus Hospital of Granada. The participants were interviewed during the first week after surgery by an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist. The statistical test used for analysis were: Cronbach's α coefficient, McNemar-Bowker test, Bland-Altman plot, Spearman´s Rho, and Mann-Whitney U test. The Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.90. No inter-rater systematic differences were found. We noted significant associations between the Spanish Version of the Modified New Mobility Score (NMS-ES) and selected health outcomes: Age, cognition, pre-fracture function, and basic mobility. The NMS-ES is a reliable and valid instrument to assess pre-injury functional levels for patients with HF in Spanish speaking countries.

Knee Extension Strength Measures Indicating Probable Sarcopenia Is Associated with Health-Related Outcomes and a Strong Predictor of 1-Year Mortality in Patients Following Hip Fracture Surgery

To examine if knee-extension strength (KES) measures indicating probable sarcopenia are associated with health-related outcomes and if KES and hand grip strength (HGS) measures are associated with 1-year mortality after hip fracture. Two groups of older patients with hip fracture had either HGS (n = 32) or KES (n = 150) assessed during their acute hospital stay. Cut-points for HGS (<27 kg for men and <16 kg for women), and cut-points for maximal isometric KES (non-fractured limb), being the lowest sex-specific quintile (<23.64 kg for men and <15.24 kg for women), were used to examine association with health-related outcomes and 1-year mortality. Overall, 1-year mortality was 12.6% in the two strength groups, of which 47% (HGS) and 46% (KES) respectively, were classified as probable sarcopenia. Probable sarcopenia patients (KES) had lower prefracture function, performed poorly in mobility measures and expressed a greater concern of falling compared to their stronger counterparts. Hazard ratio for 1-year mortality was 2.7 (95%CI = 0.49–14.7, p = 0.3) for HGS and 9.8 (95%CI = 2.2–43.0, p = 0.002) for KES for probable sarcopenia patients compared to those not. Sex-specific KES measures indicating sarcopenia is associated with health-related outcomes and a strong predictor of 1-year mortality after hip fracture.

Is arthroplaty btter than interal fixation for undiplaced femoral nck fracture? A national pragmatic RCT: the trial

INTRODUCTION

Undisplaced femoral neck fractures (FNFs) are usually treated by internal fixation (IF) but two randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated advantages of treatment with arthroplasty. The complication rate was lowered but there were no clinically improved patient-reported outcome measures (PROM), which could be due to underpowering or choice of selected PROM as the studies do appear to report a better functional outcome. We will conduct an RCT comparing IF with arthroplasties in patients aged over 65 years with an undisplaced FNF.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

All hospitals in Denmark treating patients with hip fracture can provide patients for this study; therefore, the study can be considered a national RCT. Patients over 65 years old with an undisplaced FNF will be screened for eligibility and patients will only be excluded if they are unable to understand the study information (due to dementia or language), if they have a posterior tilt >20°, a pathological fracture or they cannot walk. Participants will be electronically randomised (in alternating blocks of 4 or 6) into either IF or arthroplasty. Postoperative care will follow the department standards.Primary and secondary outcomes and measuring points have been established in collaboration with patients with hip fracture by focus group interviews. The primary outcome measure is the New Mobility Score assessed after 1 year. Secondary outcomes are the Oxford Hip Score, EuroQol 5 domain (EQ-5D-5L), degree of posterior tilt, pain Verbal Rating Scale, reoperation and mortality.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study is approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (19/7429) and the scientific ethics committee (S-20180036). All participants will sign an informed consent before entering the trial. Because this is a national trial, all relevant healthcare professionals in Denmark will automatically receive the trial results that will be published in international peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04075461).

Prevalence of Swallowing and Eating Difficulties in an Elderly Postoperative Hip Fracture Population-A Multi-Center-Based Pilot Study

Elderly patients operated for hip fracture are characterized by high age and high degree of comorbidity and need of care, factors previously found to be associated with swallowing and eating difficulties. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of swallowing and eating difficulties in an elderly postoperative hip fracture population and to identify factors associated with swallowing and eating difficulties. A cross-sectional multi-center pilot study was performed, including patients ≥65 years, operated for hip fracture, and able to participate in a swallowing and eating assessment. A clinical assessment was conducted using Danish versions of the standardized tools Volume-Viscosity Swallow Test and Minimal Eating Observation Form-version II. Demographic data and clinical characteristics were examined. A total of 78 patients (mean age 81.4 years (SD 7.8), 30.8% male) were included. Swallowing and eating difficulties were present in 60 patients (77%). Swallowing and eating difficulties were significantly associated with living in a nursing home before hospital admission (p = 0.014), low habitual New Mobility Score (p = 0.018), and absence of cardiac comorbidity (p = 0.023). The results underline the importance of focusing on swallowing and eating difficulties in elderly patients operated for hip fracture to ensure effectivity and safety and optimize the prognosis for the patient.

The cumulated ambulation score is superior to the new mobility score and the de Morton Mobility Index in predicting discharge destination of patients admitted to an acute geriatric ward; a 1-year cohort study of 491 patients

PURPOSE

To investigate the predictive value of New Mobility Score, de Morton Mobility Index, and Cumulated Ambulation Score regarding discharge destination, and to determine the feasibility of the tests in an acute geriatric ward.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Observational 1-year cohort study of 491 geriatric patients admitted consecutively from own home. New Mobility Score (pre-hospital functional level), de Morton Mobility Index, and Cumulated Ambulation Score were recorded at the first physiotherapy contact.

RESULTS

Univariable logistic regression showed that the odds for not being discharged home were 7 times higher (odds ratio = 7.6, 95%CI; 4.5-12.7) for patients with a non-independent mobility level (Cumulated Ambulation Score ≤ 5) compared to independent (Cumulated Ambulation Score = 6). Corresponding ratios were 6.2 (3.8-10.0) for de Morton Mobility Index ≤ 41 points and 2.8 (1.8-4.5) for New Mobility Score ≤5 points. Adjustment for gender, age, cause of admission, and marital status improved the predictive value of the Cumulated Ambulation Score. Upon admission, 99% of the patients were assessed with New Mobility Score, 100% with Cumulated Ambulation Score, and 81% with de Morton Mobility Index.

CONCLUSION

Cumulated Ambulation Score is more feasible and superior in predicting discharge destination than de Morton Mobility Index and New Mobility Score in an acute geriatric ward.Implications for rehabilitationEasy, quick, and accurate measurement of mobility is essential for discharge planning and effective targeting of physiotherapy in an acute geriatric ward.The objectively assessed Cumulated Ambulation Score is superior to the de Morton Mobility Index and the pre-hospital New Mobility Score in predicting discharge destination in geriatric patients admitted from their own home.The Cumulated Ambulation Score and the New Mobility Score are more feasible and less time consuming to complete in an acute geriatric ward compared to the de Morton Mobility Index.

Weight changes and mobility in the early phase after hip fracture in community-dwelling older persons

Aim

To investigate body weight changes and their effect on mobility during the first two months following a hip fracture.

Findings

The loss of body weight was observed in three out of four patients in the early phase after hip fracture and was associated with decreased mobility measured by the NMS.

Message

Bodyweight loss is common and may further reduce mobility in hip fracture patients, but these findings need more research.

Purpose

Hip fractures in older persons are associated with reduced mobility and loss of independence. Few studies address the nutritional status and mobility in the early phase after hip fracture. The objective of the present study was, therefore, to investigate weight changes and their effect on mobility during the first two months following hip fracture in community-dwelling older persons without dementia.

Methods

Patients (> 60 years) admitted for a first hip fracture were recruited from two tertiary referral hospitals in Bergen, Norway. The patients' weights and dietary intakes were determined in the hospital and at home after two months. Mobility was assessed based on the New Mobility Score (NMS) (scale 0–9, with values > 5 regarded as sufficient mobility).

Results

We included 64 patients (median age 80 years, 48 women, 16 men) with information on weight collected in the hospital. Follow-up measurements were available for 32 patients, corresponding to an attrition rate of 50%. The patients had a median weight loss of 1.8 kg (IQR = − 3.7, 0 kg). Most of them had reduced mobility at two months after the surgery [median NMS = 5 (IQR = 3–6)]. Both age and the weight change after surgery were predictors of the NMS at follow-up.

Conclusion

Bodyweight loss was observed in three out of four patients in the early phase after hip fracture and was associated with decreased mobility measured by the NMS. The results should be interpreted with caution as half of the patients dropped out of the study and did not participate in the follow-up visit.

Factors influencing performances and indicating risk of falls using the true Timed Up and Go test time of patients with hip fracture upon acute hospital discharge

OBJECTIVE

To examine the influence and risk of falls of individual factors on timed up and go test (TUG) times using standardized instructions in patients with hip fracture upon discharge from an acute orthopaedic hip fracture unit.

METHODS

Following instructions, the TUG was performed three times with a rollator (standardized aid), as fast as safely possible. Up to a 1-min rest was given after the first and second TUG trial. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to investigate the factors influencing TUG-times and corresponding logistic analysis was used to investigate factors indicating risk of falls, using a cut-off of 24 s for TUG.

RESULTS

A total of 181 patients (122 women), 60 years or older, with a mean (SD) age of 78.1 (9.1) years were studied. The fastest of three TUG trials performed within a mean of 10.0 (5.2) post-surgery days and used in analyses reached a mean of 25.6 (11.0) s. Multivariable regression analysis showed that greater age (B = 0.24; 2.4s more per decade older), a low pre-fracture function level (New Mobility Score <7 points, B = 6.4s more than high level), having a trochanteric fracture (B = 6.2 s, vs. cervical), and the post-surgery day of testing (B = 0.42, 4.2s per 10 days later) were independently associated with using more time for performing the TUG. Correspondingly, the same four factors indicated an increased risk of falls in the logistic analysis. The linear model explained 28% of the variance on TUG, while the accuracy of the logistic model to predict patients having TUG≥24 s was 69%.

CONCLUSION

The age, pre-fracture function, fracture type and post-surgery day of TUG testing were identified as strong factors influencing TUG performances and TUG-times indicating risk of falls in patients with hip fracture. We suggest that these factors be considered when interpreting TUG test results and in further rehabilitation and fall prevention efforts.

Short (175 mm) versus standard (220 mm) length intramedullary nail for trochanteric hip fractures: a randomized trial of 229 patients

AIMS

A lack of supporting clinical studies have been published to determine the ideal length of intramedullary nail in fixation of trochanteric fractures of the hip. Nevertheless, there has been a trend to use shorter intramedullary nails for the internal fixation of trochanteric hip fractures. Our aim was to determine if the length of nail affected the outcome.

METHODS

We randomized 229 patients with a trochanteric hip fracture between two implants: a 'standard' nail of 220 mm and a shorter nail of 175 mm, which had decreased proximal angulation (4° vs 7°) and a reduced diameter at the level of the lesser trochanter. Patients were followed up for one year by a nurse blinded to the type of implant used to determine if there were differences in mobility and pain with two nail designs. Pain was assessed on a scale of 1 (none) to 8 (severe and constant) and mobility on a scale of 1 (full mobility) to 9 (immobile).

RESULTS

The shorter nail did not require any reaming of the femur and was quicker to insert (mean difference 5.1 minutes; p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval (CI) of the difference 3.16 to 7.04). Those treated by the shorter nail were less mobile (mean difference in reduction in mobility score at one year 0.80; p = 0.007, 95% CI 1.38 to 0.22). In addition, there was a trend toward greater residual pain for those treated with the shorter nail, although this was not statistically significant (mean difference in pain score at one year 0.24; p = 0.064, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.49).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the increasing use of this very short intramedullary nail with its design modification may not be appropriate. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(3):394-399.

Validation of the Fracture Mobility Score against the Parker Mobility Score in hip fracture patients

INTRODUCTION

The Parker Mobility Score has proven to be a valid and reliable measurement of hip fracture patient mobility. For hip fracture registries the Fracture Mobility Score is advised and used, although this score has never been validated. This study aims to validate the Fracture Mobility Score against the Parker Mobility Score.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Dutch Hip Fracture Audit uses the Fracture Mobility Score (categorical scale). For the purpose of this study, five hospitals registered both the Fracture Mobility Score and the Parker Mobility Score (0-9 scale) for every admitted hip fracture patient in 2018. The Spearman correlation between the two scores was calculated. To test whether the correlation coefficient remained stable among different patient subgroups, analyses were stratified according to baseline patient characteristics.

RESULTS

In total 1,201 hip fracture patients were included. The Spearman correlation between the Fracture Mobility Score and Parker Mobility Score was strong: 0.73 (p = < 0.001). Stratified for gender, age, ASA score, dementia, Index of Activities of Daily Living (KATZ-6 ADL score), living situation and nutritional status, the correlation coefficient varied between 0.40-0.84. For patients aged 90 and over and having an ASA score of III-IV who suffered from dementia, had a KATZ-6 ADL score of 1-6, lived in an institution and/or were malnourished, the correlation was moderate.

CONCLUSION

The Fracture Mobility Score is overall strongly correlated with the Parker Mobility Score and can be considered as a valid score to measure hip fracture patient mobility. This may encourage other hip fracture audits to also use the Fracture Mobility Score, which would increase the uniformity of mobility score results among national hip fracture audits and decrease the overall registration load.

Cemented or uncemented hemiarthroplasty for displaced intracapsular fractures of the hip: a randomized trial of 400 patients

AIMS

Debate continues about whether it is better to use a cemented or uncemented hemiarthroplasty to treat a displaced intracapsular fracture of the hip. The aim of this study was to attempt to resolve this issue for contemporary prostheses.

METHODS

A total of 400 patients with a displaced intracapsular fracture of the hip were randomized to receive either a cemented polished tapered stem hemiarthroplasty or an uncemented Furlong hydroxyapatite-coated hemiarthroplasty. Follow-up was conducted by a nurse blinded to the implant at set intervals for up to one year from surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients died in the year after surgery. There was a tendency towards a slightly higher mortality in those treated with the uncemented prosthesis after one year (64 vs 51; p = 0.18). For the survivors, there was no significant difference in pain score at any of the time intervals. Patients treated using the cemented hemiarthroplasty recovered mobility better than those treated with the uncemented hemiarthroplasty (mean decrease in mobility score at one year: 1.7 vs 1.1, SD 1.9; p = 0.008). There was a tendency to more periprosthetic fractures in the uncemented group (five vs two cases; p = 0.45), but overall the need for further surgery was similar in both groups (nine vs seven cases). There were four perioperative deaths in the cemented group.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that a contemporary cemented hemiarthroplasty gives better results than an uncemented hemiarthroplasty for patients with a displaced intracapsular fracture of the hip. When the condition of the patient permits, a cemented hemiarthroplasty should be used. Cite this article: Bone Joint J. 2020;102-B(1):11-16.

Preliminary effect and feasibility of physiotherapy with strength training and protein-rich nutritional supplement in combination with anabolic steroids in cross-continuum rehabilitation of patients with hip fracture: protocol for a blinded randomized controlled pilot trial (HIP-SAP1 trial)

BACKGROUND

A 2014 Cochrane review evaluating the effect of anabolic steroids after hip fracture concluded that the quality of the studies was insufficient to draw conclusions on the effects and recommended further high-quality trials in the field. Therefore, the aim of this pilot trial is to determine the preliminary effect and feasibility of a 12-week multimodal intervention consisting of physiotherapy (with strength training), protein-rich nutritional supplement and anabolic steroid on knee-extension muscle strength and function 14 weeks after hip fracture surgery.

METHODS

We plan to conduct a randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial with 48 patients operated for acute hip fracture. The patients are randomized (1:1) to either (1) physiotherapy with protein-rich nutritional supplement plus anabolic steroid or (2) physiotherapy with protein-rich nutritional supplement plus placebo. Outcome assessments will be carried out blinded at baseline (3-10 days after surgery) and at 14 weeks after entering the trial. Primary outcome is the change from baseline to follow-up in maximal isometric knee-extension muscle strength in the fractured limb. Secondary outcomes are physical performance test, patient-reported outcomes, and measures of body composition.

DISCUSSION

If the trial is found feasible and the results show an indication of anabolic steroid being a relevant addition to further enhance the recovery of muscle strength and function in an enhanced recovery after surgery program, this trial will constitute the basis of a larger confirmatory trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03545347. Preregistered on 4 June 2018.

Mobility after intertrochanteric hip fracture fixation with either a sliding hip screw or a cephalomedullary nail: Sub group analysis of a randomised trial of 1000 patients

AIMS

The aim of this study was to determine if different patient groups have superior mobility regain following intertrochanteric hip fracture fixation with a cephomedullary nail compared to a sliding hip screw (SHS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The present study is a subgroup analysis of patients which were enrolled into a randomized controlled trial which randomized 1000 patients with an intertrochanteric hip fracture to fixation with either a short cephomedullary nail (Targon® PF or PFT) or a SHS. In the present study the two treatment groups were dicotomised on the basis of six variables determined at the time of admission; age (<80; ≥80 years), sex, residence (admitted from own home; institutional care), mobility (mobility score ≥7 [good]; <7 [poor]), mental status (AMTS < 7 [cognitively impaired]; ≥7) and health status (ASA < 3; ≥3). The primary outcome measure was the difference between mobility score pre-fracture and mobility score during the year after hip fracture fixation.

RESULTS

Patients less than 80 years of age, those admitted from their own home, cognitively intact patients and patients who mobilised without assistance pre-fracture, recovered superior mobility when fracture fixation was performed with a nail compared to a SHS. Those patients admitted from institutional care, those with significant cognitive or mobility impairment at the time of the injury did not have any significantly improved benefit in mobility regain with a nail compared to a SHS.

CONCLUSION

Fixation of an intertrochanteric hip fracture with a cephomedullary nail results in superior recovery of mobility for younger patients who prior to the injury were more mobile, cognitively intact and living at home.

Management and outcome of the dislocated hip hemiarthroplasty

AIMS

This study describes and compares the operative management and outcomes in a consecutive case series of patients with dislocated hemiarthroplasties of the hip, and compares outcomes with those of patients not sustaining a dislocation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Of 3326 consecutive patients treated with hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur, 46 (1.4%) sustained dislocations. Of the 46 dislocations, there were 37 female patients (80.4%) and nine male patients (19.6%) with a mean age of 83.8 years (66 to 100). Operative intervention for each, and subsequent dislocations, were recorded. The following outcome measures were recorded: dislocation; mortality up to one-year post-injury; additional surgery; residential status; mobility; and pain score at one year.

RESULTS

Of 43 dislocations, 30 (70%) occurred within one month and 42 (98%) occurred within three months of hip fracture surgery. Seven (16%) of these patients were treated with a single closed reduction and sustained no further dislocations. Four (9%) were treated with open reduction and experienced no further dislocations. Three (7%) hips were left dislocated and the remaining 32 (74%) patients required additional surgery of further closed reduction, revision, or excision arthroplasty. The one-year mortality rates for patients treated with two or fewer reductions (open or closed), successful revision arthroplasty, and excision arthroplasty were 3/14 (21%), 1/7 (14%), and 8/14 (57%) respectively. The only statistically significant difference in mortality was the difference between patients who did not sustain a dislocation and those who did and were treated by excision arthroplasty (p = 0.03). Patients treated by excision arthroplasty had the greatest reduction in mobility scores and highest pain scores. The excision arthroplasty group also included the greatest proportion of patients not able to mobilize and the smallest proportion of patients remaining in their own home.

CONCLUSION

Most dislocations of hemiarthroplasties of the hip occur within one month of surgery. Closed reduction is generally unsuccessful. For those patients with unsuccessful closed reduction, revision arthroplasty should be considered when possible, as this results in a better functional outcome with a lower mortality than excision arthroplasty.

Pre-operative haemodynamic monitoring and resuscitation in hip fracture patients: Protocol for a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

In a frail patient group often suffering from dehydration, hip fracture is potentially fatal partly because of the blood loss and thus deteriorated circulation. An important goal for haemodynamic monitoring and resuscitation is early detection of insufficient tissue perfusion. "The peripheral perfusion index" reflects changes in peripheral perfusion and blood volume. We hypothesize that hip fracture patients are hypovolaemic with poor peripheral perfusion and accordingly respond to controlled fluid resuscitation. The peripheral perfusion index might reflect restricted tissue perfusion in spite of stable central haemodynamic variables.

METHODS

This prospective observational study assess to what extend hip fracture patients suffer from hypovolaemia and respond to a stroke volume-guided fluid challenge. The secondary objectives are to evaluate correlation between the non-invasive peripheral perfusion index and minimally invasive measures of stroke volume, changes in blood volume and near-infrared spectroscopy determined tissue- and cerebral oxygenation and to compare results to prevalence of post-operative complications including mortality. We will include 50 patients (>65 years) presenting a hip fracture and treated in a multimodal fast-track regimen when written informed consent is available.

DISCUSSION

This is likely the first study to address pre-operative haemodynamic monitoring and resuscitation in hip fracture patients where adequate resuscitation is easily missed. We aim to evaluate feasibility of pre-operative stroke volume-guided haemodynamic optimization in the context of minimally- and non-invasive monitoring of peripheral perfusion and measure of blood volume.

Does a fixed offset hemiarthroplasty implant have any effect on pain and function in patients with a femoral neck fracture?

INTRODUCTION

Hip hemiarthroplasty is the commonest operation performed for a displaced intracapsular hip fracture in the UK. A variety of implants including fixed offset prostheses are utilised. There has been no study investigating the relationship between restoration of femoral offset and long term pain and function. This study aims to evaluate long-term pain and functional outcomes of a fixed offset hemiarthroplasty implant (the Exeter trauma system).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients were retrospectively reviewed from a prospectively collected database. In all, 338 patients met the criteria for evaluation. Patients native offset were calculated from the contralateral hip. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed using validated outcome measures.

RESULTS

There were no differences found across a range of natural offsets for long-term pain and functional recovery.

CONCLUSION

Our experience with the Exeter trauma system suggests that a 40 mm offset implant is a good standard offset to use.

Physiotherapy following fragility fractures

Physiotherapy can play a vital role in the pathway of care of people after fragility fracture and includes interventions of early mobilisation and prescription of structured exercise programmes for maximising functional recovery and reducing the risk of falls and further fractures. Although the optimal nature of physiotherapist interventions after hip and vertebral fracture requires further investigation in large-scale trials, evidence supports the prescription of high-intensity and extended exercise interventions. This article will overview interventions in the acute and chronic phases after hip fractures, interventions after vertebral fracture and the role of physiotherapy in the prevention of further fractures.

Early mobilisation of patients with community-acquired pneumonia reduce length of hospitalisation-a pilot study

[Purpose] To examine if length of stay was reduced following an early mobilisation programme in patients with community-acquired pneumonia, and secondary, if such a program influenced short-term rehospitalisation and mortality rates. [Participants and Methods] Ninety seven consecutive patients (51% men; over all mean ± SD age 71.9 ± 16.5 years) with community-acquired pneumonia were included in the intervention group, and compared with a historical control group of 97 patients, matching at case level. Early mobilisation was defined as more than 20 minutes out of bed within 24 hours of hospitalisation. [Results] Eighty out of 97 patients in the intervention group were mobilised within 24 hours and length of stay for all patients was reduced with an average of 1.5 (95%CI: -0.2; 3.2) days compared to the control group. There was no significant difference between the two groups according to 30-day rehospitalisation and mortality. [Conclusion] An early mobilisation program seem to reduce the length of stay for patients with community-acquired pneumonia, and without an increase in short-term mortality and re-hospitalisation rates.

The impact of psychomotor subtypes and duration of delirium on 6-month mortality in hip-fractured elderly patients

OBJECTIVE

Studies exploring the incidence and impact of the psychomotor subtypes of postoperative delirium (POD) on the survival of hip fracture patients are few, and results are inconsistent. We sought to assess the incidence of POD subtypes and their impact, in addition to delirium duration, on 6-month mortality in older patients after hip-fracture surgery.

METHODS

This is a prospective study involving 571 individuals admitted to an Orthogeriatric Unit within a 5-year period with a diagnosis of hip fracture. Survival status was assessed 6 months after posthip fracture surgery. Postoperative delirium was diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Postoperative delirium subtypes were classified according to Lipowski's criteria. Cox regressions were used to evaluate the associations between POD subtypes, POD duration, and 6-month mortality, adjusting for covariates.

RESULTS

The incidence of psychomotor POD subtypes was hypoactive 57 (10.0%), hyperactive 84 (14.7%), and mixed 79 (13.8%). Six-month mortality rates were 8.3%, 10.7%, 36.8%, and 29.1% in the no-delirium, hyperactive, hypoactive, and mixed-delirium subgroups, respectively. In adjusted models, the hypoactive subgroup (Hazard Ratio, HR = 3.14, 95% Confidence Intervals, CI, 1.63-6.04) and mixed subgroup (HR = 2.89, 95% CI, 1.49-5.62) showed high mortality rates and a significantly increased risk of mortality associated with POD duration as well.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperactive delirium was the most common POD psychomotor subtype, but hypoactive and mixed POD were associated with 6-month mortality risk. Moreover, the risk of death 6 months after surgery increased for both subgroups (hypoactive and mixed) with increasing duration of POD.

Protocol for a single-centre prospective observational study of postoperative delirium following total joint arthroplasties among South East Asians

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative delirium is a serious and common complication in older adults following total joint arthroplasties (TJA). It is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications, mortality, length of hospital stay and postdischarge institutionalisation. Thus, it has a negative impact on the health-related quality of life of the patient and poses a large economic burden. This study aims to characterise the incidence of postoperative delirium following TJA in the South East Asian population and investigate any risk factors or associated outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a single-centre prospective observational study recruiting patients between 65 and 90 years old undergoing elective total knee arthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty. Exclusion criteria included patients with clinically diagnosed dementia. Preoperative and intraoperative data will be obtained prospectively. The primary outcome will be the presence of postoperative delirium assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method on postoperative days 1, 2 and 3 and day of discharge. Other secondary outcomes assessed postoperatively will include hospital outcomes, pain at rest, knee and hip function, health-related quality of life and Postoperative Morbidity Survey-defined morbidity. Data will be analysed to calculate the incidence of postoperative delirium. Potential risk factors and any associated outcomes of postoperative delirium will also be determined.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Singapore General Hospital Institutional Review Board (SGH IRB) (CIRB Ref: 2017/2467) and is registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov registry (Identified: NCT03260218). An informed consent form will be signed by all participants before recruitment and translators will be made available to non-English-speaking participants. The results of this study will be presented at international conferences and submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. The data collected will also be made available in a public data repository.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03260218.

Physical performance following acute high-risk abdominal surgery: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Acute high-risk abdominal (AHA) surgery is associated with high mortality, multiple postoperative complications and prolonged hospital stay. Further development of strategies for enhanced recovery programs following AHA surgery is needed. The aim of this study was to describe physical performance and barriers to independent mobilization among patients who received AHA surgery (postoperative days [POD] 1-7).

METHODS

Patients undergoing AHA surgery were consecutively enrolled from a university hospital in Denmark. In the first postoperative week, all patients were evaluated daily with regards to physical performance, using the Cumulated Ambulation Score (CAS; 0-6 points) to assess basic mobility and the activPAL monitor to assess the 24-hour physical activity level. We recorded barriers to independent mobilization.

RESULTS

Fifty patients undergoing AHA surgery (mean age 61.4 ± 17.2 years) were included. Seven patients died within the first postoperative week, and 15 of 43 (35%) patients were still not independently mobilized (CAS < 6) on POD-7, which was associated with pulmonary complications developing (53% v. 14% in those with CAS = 6, p = 0.012). The patients lay or sat for a median of 23.4 hours daily during the first week after AHA surgery, and the main barriers to independent mobilization were fatigue and abdominal pain.

CONCLUSION

Patients who receive AHA surgery have very limited physical performance in the first postoperative week. Barriers to independent mobilization are primarily fatigue and abdominal pain. Further studies investigating strategies for early mobilization and barriers to mobilization in the immediate postoperative period after AHA surgery are needed.

Variation in Functional Status After Hip Fracture: Facility and Regional Influence on Mobility and Self-Care

BACKGROUND

Recent reports show substantial geographic variation in postacute health care spending. Little is known about variation in functional outcomes after postacute rehabilitation for patients with hip fracture. We examined variation in mobility and self-care after hip fracture rehabilitation across inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs), hospital referral regions (HRRs) and states.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study using data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) from 2006 to 2009. Study sample included 149,258 records from patients 66 years and older at 1,166 IRFs located within 292 HRRs and across 50 states. Hip fracture cases were defined by CMS impairment group codes (08.11, 08.12). Hierarchical generalized linear models were used to assess discharge mobility and self-care functional status, adjusting for individual patient characteristics and the random effect of IRFs, HRRs, and states.

RESULTS

Variation in discharge mobility status as assessed by the intraclass correlation percentage (ICC%) was 8.8% across IRFs, 4.0% across HRRs, and 1.8% across states. For self-care, the ICCs were 10.2% across IRFs, 4.8% across HRRs, and 2.4% across states. The range of discharge mobility scores (maximum functional status rating to minimum functional status rating) showed a 9.6-point difference for IRFs, 6.5 for regions, and 2.6 for states. Range of discharge self-care scores were 13.1 for IRFs, 6.8 for HRRs, and 3.4 for states.

CONCLUSION

Variation in functional status following postacute hip fracture rehabilitation appears to occur primarily at the level of facilities rather than geographic location.

The Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Danish Patients Hospitalised with Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) are prevalent conditions in the elderly. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between CAP, OD, and frailty in patients admitted to a department of respiratory medicine at a regional hospital. The outcome was mortality during hospitalization and within 30 days of discharge and rehospitalization within 30 days of discharge. A total of 154 consecutive patients (54.5% male, mean age 77.4 years (SD 11.51)) hospitalized because of CAP from September 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014 at North Denmark Regional Hospital were included in this study. The volume-viscosity swallow test was conducted for each patient. A total of 34.42% patients presented with OD. Patients with OD and CAP presented significant differences in age, CURB-65, and dementia compared with those of patients with CAP alone. The majority lived in nursing homes, had a lower body mass index, Barthel 20 score, and handgrip strength, and had poor oral health compared with patients with CAP only. Patients with OD presented an increased length of stay in hospital (P < 0.001), intra-hospital mortality (P < 0.001), and 30-day mortality rate (P < 0.001) compared with those of patients with CAP only. Their rate of rehospitalization 0-30 days after discharge was also increased (P < 0.001) compared with that of patients with CAP only. Thus, OD is related to frailty and poor outcome.

Femoral Medialization, Fixation Failures, and Functional Outcome in Trochanteric Hip Fractures Treated With Either a Sliding Hip Screw or an Intramedullary Nail From Within a Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine if femoral medialization influences residual pain and mobility and to determine if fixation method or fracture pattern influences the tendency to medialize.

DESIGN

This study used data from within a randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Peterborough City Hospital, UK.

PATIENT/PARTICIPANTS

Eight hundred forty-four patients presenting with a trochanteric hip fracture were randomized. Five hundred thirty-eight were available for 1-year follow-up. Fractures were classified according to OTA/AO classification as 31 A1, A2, and A3.

INTERVENTION

Randomized to fixation with a Targon proximal femoral nail or sliding hip screw (SHS).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Femoral medialization was calculated from follow-up x-rays at a minimum of 28 days post-fixation. Pain and mobility scores were assessed at 1 year by an independent blinded observer. Fixation failure and revision procedures were assessed at a minimum of 1 year from injury.

RESULTS

Patients with >50% medialization had worse pain (P = 0.012) and mobility scores (P = 0.013) at 1 year. They also had more fracture healing complications (P = 0.021) and required more revision procedures (P = 0.014). Fractures treated with SHS were more likely to medialize >50% compared with intramedullary nail (P < 0.001). A2 and A3 fractures were more likely to medialize, and A3 fractures were more likely to undergo >50% medialization (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates the previously theoretical predisposition for unstable hip fractures treated with SHS to undergo femoral medialization and correlates this with worse functional outcomes. It supports the use of intramedullary nails for A3 fractures, which have a significant tendency to medialize.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.