Early Rehabilitation in Elderly after Arthroplasty versus Internal Fixation for Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures of Femur: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Comparative Interrupted Time Series Analysis of Medical Expenses in Patients with Intertrochanteric Fracture Who Underwent Internal Fixation and Hemiarthroplasty

Purpose

The objective of this study was to assess postoperative direct medical expenses and medical utilization of elderly patients who underwent either hemiarthroplasty (HA) or internal fixation (IF) for treatment of a femoral intertrochanteric fracture and to analyze differences according to surgical methods and age groups.

Materials and Methods

Data from the 2011 to 2018 Korean National Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service database were used. Risk-set matching was performed for selection of controls representing patients with the same sex, age, and year of surgery. A comparative interrupted time series analysis was performed for evaluation of differences in medical expenses and utilization between the two groups.

Results

A total of 10,405 patients who underwent IF surgery and 10,405 control patients who underwent HA surgery were included. Medical expenses were 18% lower in the IF group compared to the HA group during the first year after the fracture (difference-in-difference [DID] estimate ratio 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-0.87, P<0.001), and 9% lower in the second year (DID estimate ratio 0.91, 95% CI 0.85-0.99, P=0.018). Length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the IF group compared to the HA group during the first two years after time zero in the age ≥80 group.

Conclusion

A noticeable increase in medical expenses was observed for patients who underwent HA for treatment of intertrochanteric fractures compared to those who underwent IF over a two-year period after surgery. Therefore, consideration of such findings is critical when designing healthcare policy support for management of intertrochanteric fractures.

Early Postoperative Weight-Bearing Ability after Total Hip Arthroplasty versus Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in Elderly Patients with Femoral Neck Fracture

Background: Femoral neck fractures are among the most common types of fractures and particularly affect elderly patients. Two of the most common treatment strategies are total hip arthroplasty (THA) and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BA). However, the role of the different treatment strategies in the postoperative weight-bearing ability in the early postoperative phase is still not entirely clear. Methods: Patients who underwent either THA or BA were consecutively included in our prospective cohort study. Gait analysis was performed during the early postoperative period. The gait analysis consisted of a walking distance of 40 m coupled with the turning movement in between. During the gait analysis, the duration of the measurement, the maximum peak force and the average peak force were recorded. Results: A total of 39 patients were included, 25 of whom underwent BA and 14 of whom underwent THA. The maximum peak force during the gait analysis was, on average, 80.6% ± 19.5 of the body weight in the BA group and 78.9% ± 21.6 in the THA group. The additionally determined average peak force during the entire gait analysis was 66.8% ± 15.8 of the body weight in the BA group and 60.5% ± 15.6 in the THA group. Conclusions: Patients with femoral neck fractures undergoing THA and BA can achieve sufficient weight bearing on the operated leg in the early postoperative period. In our study, BA did not allow for a significantly higher average and maximum loading capacity compared with THA.

The Integral Role of Physiotherapy in Optimizing Movement and Function in a Case of Polytrauma: A Case Report

Multiple fractures are frequently encountered in adults following road traffic accidents. A 32-year-old male presented with multiple fractures in his right lower extremity, including a femoral shaft fracture, distal third fractures of the tibia and fibula, as well as a calcaneal fracture. The patient provided a history indicative of a road traffic accident. X-rays were performed on both hip joints, both knee joints, and the ankle joints. Treatment involved open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with interlocking nailing for the femur, tibia, and fibula, alongside ORIF with plating using a screw-out set (SOS) and cannulated cancellous (CC) screw fixation for the calcaneal fracture. Additionally, the Ilizarov procedure was conducted following debridement over the right foot. Post-surgery, the patient experienced primary symptoms of hip joint pain and restricted hip joint movement. Physiotherapy was initiated to address these issues. Evaluation of outcome measures indicated a reduction in joint pain, significant enhancement in joint mobility, and an increase in muscle strength.

Should trochanteric fractures in elderly patients be treated by arthroplasty or internal fixation?

Most trochanteric fractures are treated by fixation, most often intramedullary. Nevertheless, the desire to have patients walk as soon as possible and the fear of fixation failure has driven some surgeons to carry out an arthroplasty instead, especially for unstable fractures and/or in patients with severe osteoporosis, in order to avoid the difficult conversion to arthroplasty later on if the fixation fails. The aim of this review was to specify the role, technique and results of performing arthroplasty in this context. In which fractures? Unstable fractures (A2.2, A2.3 and A3), especially in osteoporotic bone, which are the most difficult to reduce and fix, and in cases with associated osteoarthritis. For which patients? Arthroplasty should not be done in patients who have ASA≤3 due to greater blood loss and longer operative time. Since the postoperative Parker score often drops, arthroplasty should not be done in patients having a Parker score<6. What are the technical problems? Arthroplasty must be done by an experienced surgeon because of the lack of anatomical landmarks, although fracture fixation has its own demands (satisfactory reduction, appropriate length and position of cervicocephalic screw). What are the results and complications? Despite several comparative studies (randomized trials, meta-analysis and prospective studies), it is difficult to draw any conclusions. These studies show worse performance of dynamic hip screws relative to intramedullary nails. The complication and revision rates were higher for nails than arthroplasty, but not in every study, while the functional outcomes with nails (with or without immediate weightbearing) were better than those of arthroplasty beyond 6 months. What is the mortality rate? It was lower after nailing in a few studies but was mainly determined by the patient's comorbidities and preoperative Parker score. The best indication for arthroplasty may be self-sufficient patients over 70 years of age who have an unstable fracture with severe osteoporosis. Nevertheless, new studies should be done to compare arthroplasty to nailing with immediate return to weightbearing in patients having the same type of fracture, defined using 3D CT scan. Level of evidence: Expert advice.

A Comparative Study of Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Intertrochanteric Fracture: Direct Anterior Approach versus Conventional Posterolateral Approach

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare short-term results from use of the direct anterior approach (DAA) and the conventional posterolateral approach (PLA) in performance of bipolar hemiarthroplasty for treatment of femoral intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of 100 patients with intertrochanteric fractures who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty was conducted. The PLA was used in 50 cases from 2016 to 2019; since that time we have used the DAA in 50 cases from 2019 to 2021. Measurements of mean operative time, blood loss, hospitalization period, and ambulation status, greater trochanter (GT) migration and stem subsidence were performed. And the incidence of complications was examined.

Results

Operative time was 73.60±14.56 minutes in the PLA group and 79.80±8.89 minutes in the DAA group (P<0.05). However, after experiencing 20 cases using DAA, there was no statistically difference in operative time between two groups (P=0.331). Blood loss was 380.76±180.67 mL in the PLA group and 318.14±138.51 mL in the DAA group (P<0.05). The hospitalization was 23.76±11.89 days in the PLA group and 21.45±4.18 days in the DAA group (P=0.207). In both groups, there were no progressive GT migration, intraoperative fractures or dislocations, although there was one case of infection in the PLA group.

Conclusion

Although use of the DAA in performance of bipolar hemiarthroplasty required slightly more time in the beginning compared with the PLA, the DAA may well be an alternative, safe surgical technique as a muscle preserving procedure in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures.

Effect of knee osteoarthritis on the postoperative outcome of proximal femoral nail anti-rotation in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly: a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

The proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) is a commonly used internal fixation system for intertrochanteric fractures (IFs) in older adults. Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative lower extremity disease that occurs most frequently in the elderly. Some patients have already had KOA before the IFs. However, whether KOA impacts the postoperative outcome of IFs has not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of KOA on the fracture side on the outcome after PFNA for IFs in the elderly.

METHODS

Between January 2016 and November 2021, 297 elderly patients treated with PFNA for IFs were enrolled in this study. They were divided into two groups according to the American Rheumatism Association KOA clinical and radiographic criteria: the control group and the KOA group. Intraoperative bleeding, operative time, length of hospital stay, postoperative time out of bed, fracture healing time, postoperative complications, postoperative Harris hip function score, and Barthel ability to daily living Score were compared between the two groups. Follow-up was routinely scheduled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Based on the exclusion criteria, 254 patients who met the requirements were left to be included in this study, including the control group (n = 133) and the KOA group (n = 121). Patients were followed up for a mean of 17.5 months (12-24 months). There was no significant difference between the two groups in preoperative demographic data, intraoperative blood loss, operation time, and length of stay in the hospital. The control group was statistically significant compared to the KOA group in terms of postoperative time out of bed (17.8 ± 4.0 days vs. 19.1 ± 5.8 days), fracture healing time (13.7 ± 2.2 weeks vs. 14.6 ± 3.7 weeks), and postoperative complications (12.8 vs. 23.1%). The Harris hip function score and Barthel ability to daily living score were higher in the control group than in the KOA group at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively (the control group: 63.8 ± 10.9, 71.8 ± 10.3, 81.5 ± 8.7, and 91.6 ± 6.3 vs. The KOA group 61.0 ± 10.4, 68.6 ± 9.1, 79.0 ± 9.2, and 88.5 ± 5.9).

CONCLUSIONS

In elderly patients with IFs combined with KOA of the fracture side treated with PFNA internal fixation, KOA increases the incidence of postoperative complications of the fracture, prolongs postoperative time out of bed and fracture healing, and reduces postoperative hip function and ability to daily living. Therefore, treating KOA on the fractured side needs to be considered when treating IFs in the elderly.

Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty in Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures with an Effective Wiring Technique

Purpose

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty has recently been acknowledged as an effective option for treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fracture. Trochanteric fragment nonunion can cause postoperative weakness of the abductor muscle and dislocation; therefore, reduction and fixation of the fragment is essential. The purpose of this study was to perform an evaluation and analysis of the outcomes of bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a useful wiring technique for management of unstable intertrochanteric fractures.

Materials and Methods

A total of 217 patients who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a cementless stem and a wiring technique for management of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures (AO/OTA classification 31-A2) at our hospital from January 2017 to December 2020 were included in this study. Evaluation of clinical outcomes was performed using the Harris hip score (HHS) and the ambulatory capacity reported by patients was classified according to Koval stage at six months postoperatively. Evaluation of radiologic outcomes for subsidence, breakage of wiring, and loosening was also performed using plain radiographs at six months postoperatively.

Results

Among 217 patients, five patients died during the follow-up period as a result of problems unrelated to the operation. The mean HHS was 75±12 and the mean Koval category before the injury was 2.5±1.8. A broken wire was detected around the greater trochanter and lesser trochanter in 25 patients (11.5%). The mean distance of stem subsidence was 2.2±1.7 mm.

Conclusion

Our wiring fixation technique can be regarded as an effective additional surgical option for fixation of trochanteric fracture fragments during performance of bipolar hemiarthroplasty.

Analysis of the Effects of COVID-19 on Hip Fractures in Korea Without Lockdown: Interrupted Time Series Analysis Using a Nationwide Cohort

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the change in the incidence rate, length of hospital stay (LOS), in-hospital mortality rate, and surgical method of hip fractures during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in South Korea where lockdown restrictions were not implemented.

METHODS

We calculated the expected values of the incidence of hip fractures, in-hospital mortality and LOS of hip fracture patients in 2020 (COVID period) based hip fracture database of the Korean National Health Insurance Review and Assessment (HIRA) during a 9-year period from 2011 to 2019 (pre-COVID period). A generalized estimating equation model with Poisson distribution and logarithmic link function was used to estimate adjusted annual percent change (PC) of incidence rate and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Then, we compared the annual incidence, in-hospital mortality rate and LOS in 2020 with the expected values.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate of hip fracture in 2020 was not significantly different from the expected value (PC, -5%; 95% CI, -13 to 4; P = 0.280). In women, the incidence rate of hip fracture in age groups over 70 years was smaller than the predicted value (P < 0.001). The in-hospital mortality rate was not significantly different from the expected value (PC, 5%; 95% CI, -8 to 19; P = 0.461). The mean LOS was larger than the expected value by 2% (PC, 2%; 95% CI, 1 to 3; P < 0.001). In intertrochanteric fracture, the proportion of internal fixation was smaller than the predicted value by 2% (PC, -2%; 95% CI, -3 to -1; P < 0.001), and that of hemiarthroplasty was larger than the predicted value by 8% (PC, 8%; 95% CI, 4 to 14; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In 2020, the incidence rate of hip fracture did not significantly decrease, and in-hospital mortality rate did not significantly increase compared to the expected rates, which were projected based on the HIRA hip fracture data from 2011 to 2019. Only LOS increased slightly.

Distal fixation modular stem hemiarthroplasty versus proximal femoral nailing for unstable intertrochanteric fractures: a retrospective cohort study

The treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures (UITF) is a controversial issue in the current literature. The aim of this study was to compare the curative effects of distal fixation modular stem (DFMS) hemiarthroplasty with proximal femoral nailing (PFN) on UITFs in the elderly. From February 2017 to November 2019, 98 elderly (≥65 years) patients with UITF were included in this single-center retrospective cohort study. Mean follow-up duration was 24.1±11.9 months. Patients were divided into the DFMS group (52 patients) and the PFN group (46 patients). In the DFMS group, trochanteric fixation was performed using a trochanteric cable plate system. Primary outcome measures included Harris hip score (HHS), mobility score, implant related complications and mortality. Secondary outcome measures included hospitalization duration, surgical time and transfusion rate. Mean age of the patients was 78.7±7.2 years (65-96 years). DFMS group had longer surgical time, higher transfusion rates and longer hospital stays (p<0.05). Mean HHS was 80.7±10.5 and 81.9±12.2 in the DFMS group and PFN group, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of HHS, mobility score and mortality. Implant failure rates were significantly higher in the PFN group (p=0.015). Implant failure, one year mortality and overall mortality rates were 0%, 15.4% and 17.3% in DFMS group and 10.9%, 15.2% and 19.5% in PFN group, respectively. Both surgical methods can be effectively used in the treatment of UITFs with similar satisfactory functional results and similar mortality rates. In addition, the DFMS group exhibited significantly lower implant failure rates and PFN group provided significantly lower surgical time duration, transfusion rate and hospital stay duration.

Fracture fixation versus hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

There are three common types of operative options for unstable intertrochanteric fracture (ITF), i.e. dynamic hip screw (DHS), proximal femoral nail (PFN), and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BHA). Results of these operations are still inconclusive. This systematic review and network meta-analysis was therefore conducted to compare the efficacy among those operative strategies.

HYPOTHESIS

These three operative techniques (i.e., DHS, PFN, and BHA) were not different in operative failure, reoperation, and Harris Hip Score (HHS) for unstable ITF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing outcomes among DHS, PFN, and BHA in patients with unstable ITFs were searched from Medline and Scopus databases. Primary outcomes included operative failure, reoperation, and HHS. Direct meta-analysis (DMA) and network meta-analysis (NMA) were performed to compare among three operative techniques. Qualitative and quantitative evidences of all included studies were tested for heterogeneity, transitivity, and consistency in NMA. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to estimate the probability of being the best in lowering poor clinical outcomes, but high HHS.

RESULTS

Seven RCTs (n=528) were eligible. DMA showed that DHS and PFN were significantly higher risk of operative failure compared with BHA with risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval of 7.98 (1.35, 47.06) and 3.08 (1.00, 9.51), respectively. Compared with BHA, PFN was 4.47 (1.04, 21.60) times significantly higher risk of reoperation, and lower HHS at 3-6months [mean difference (MD)=-5.41 (-15.91, 5.10)], but higher HHS at>6-12months [MD 11.67 (2.98, 20.36)], although these HHSs were not significant. NMA and SUCRA demonstrated the highest ranks for operative failure and reoperation were DHS and PFN, whereas the highest HHS was BHA.

DISCUSSION

In specific group of unstable ITF, BHA might be the best operative technique in term of lower operative failure and reoperation, and highest HHS during short to intermediate period comparing with PFN and DHS. However, PFN had higher long-term HHS than BHA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I, meta-analysis of RCTs.

Factors Associated with Mechanical Complications in Intertrochanteric Fracture Treated with Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation

Purpose

Although proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA; Synthes, Switzerland) has demonstrated satisfactory results when used for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures, mechanical complications may occur. To better quantify the risk of mechanical complications when proximal femoral nail antirotation is used to treat intertrochanteric fractures, this study aimed to: (1) characterize the frequency of mechanical complications and extent of blade sliding and their correlation with reduction quality and (2) identify factors associated with mechanical complications.

Materials and Methods

A review of medical records from 93 patients treated for intertrochanteric fractures with a minimum of 6-months of follow-up between February 2014 and February 2019 was conducted. Blade position was evaluated using Tip-apex distance (TAD) and Cleveland index. The extent of blade sliding was evaluated using the adjusted Doppelt's method for intramedullary nailing. Individuals were classified as having or not having mechanical complications, and reduction quality and radiologic outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

Mechanical complications occurred in 12 of 94 hips (12.8%), with 11 out of 12 being from the intramedullary reduction group. There was no significant difference in TAD between groups; however, there were significant differences were noted in Cleveland index, AO/OTA classification, reduction quality and extent of blade sliding. The mean blade sliding distance was 1.17 mm (anatomical group), 3.28 mm (extramedullary group), and 6.11 mm (intramedullary group), respectively (P<0.001). Data revealed that blade sliding was an associated factor for mechanical complications (odds ratio 1.25, 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.51).

Conclusion

The extent of blade sliding determined using the adjusted Doppelt's method was significantly associated with mechanical complications suggesting that prevention of excessive sliding through proper intraoperative reduction is important to help achieve satisfactory treatment outcomes.

Relationship between Charlson comorbidity index, early recovery and 2-year mortality in elderly patients undergoing surgical treatment of inter-trochanteric fractures: a retrospective analysis

The aim of this study was to evaluate how the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores contribute to early recovery and 2-year mortality in elderly patients undergoing surgical treatment of inter-trochanteric fractures. 60 cases with unilateral intertrochanteric fracture were retrospectively analyzed and divided into Low-CCI group (CCI: 1–4) or high-CCI groups (CCI: 5–6). All the patients’ electronic hospital records were reviewed. The preoperative situations (demographic data, comorbidities and fracture conditions), perioperative situations (wait time, operation time, implant choice, blood loss, transfusion or not) and postoperative situations (complications, first time out of bed, function about 1-/2- week and 2-year mortality) were recorded. 51.67% were in low-CCI group and 48.33% in high-CCI group. The survival rates in low- and high-CCI group were 93.5% and 86.2% respectively. According to the functional results of 1- or 2- week after operation, no significant difference was found (P = 0.955, 0.140). Log-rank analysis showed that the main prognostic factors were blood loss, first time out of bed and complication (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed that complication and first time out of bed were significant factor on survival rate (P = 0.029, 0.010). Charlson comorbidity index maybe not the indicator of 2-year mortality in older patients with intertrochanteric fractures. In order to improve the prognosis, more attentions should be paid to reduce the complications and encourage postoperative earlier excise out of bed.

Fixation options for reconstruction of the greater trochanter in unstable intertrochanteric fracture with arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

With the aggravation of population aging, the incidence of intertrochanteric fracture also increases dramatically. Patients are often elderly accompany with severe osteoporosis and various complications. Therefore, we should select an individualized treatment based on the each patient's state. Arthroplasty is recommended for unstable fractures with obvious osteoporosis, ipsilateral femoral head necrosis or arthritis. Rigid fixation of the greater trochanter with arthroplasty is challenging because of the powerful pulling forces created by multiple muscles being transmitted to the greater trochanter. Currently, there are few contemporary literatures on the evaluation of unstable intertrochanteric fracture with efficient fixation of the greater trochanter. Moreover, there is no consensus to choose which implant to immobilize the greater trochanter. The purpose of this study was to review previous literatures and provide a valuable guidance.

CONCLUSIONS

The locking plate, which not only provides rigid fixation but also results in lower rate of postoperative complications. However, further prospective randomized and cohort studies are needed.

Clinical Practice Guideline for Postoperative Rehabilitation in Older Patients With Hip Fractures

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of hip fractures is increasing worldwide with the aging population, causing a challenge to healthcare systems due to the associated morbidities and high risk of mortality. After hip fractures in frail geriatric patients, existing comorbidities worsen and new complications are prone to occur. Comprehensive rehabilitation is essential for promoting physical function recovery and minimizing complications, which can be achieved through a multidisciplinary approach. Recommendations are required to assist healthcare providers in making decisions on rehabilitation post-surgery. Clinical practice guidelines regarding rehabilitation (physical and occupational therapies) and management of comorbidities/complications in the postoperative phase of hip fractures have not been developed. This guideline aimed to provide evidence-based recommendations for various treatment items required for proper recovery after hip fracture surgeries.

METHODS

Reflecting the complex perspectives associated with rehabilitation post-hip surgeries, 15 key questions (KQs) reflecting the complex perspectives associated with post-hip surgery rehabilitation were categorized into four areas: multidisciplinary, rehabilitation, community-care, and comorbidities/complications. Relevant literature from four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed) was searched for articles published up to February 2020. The evidence level and recommended grade were determined according to the grade of recommendation assessment, development, and evaluation method.

RESULTS

A multidisciplinary approach, progressive resistance exercises, and balance training are strongly recommended. Early ambulation, weigh-bearing exercises, activities of daily living training, community-level rehabilitation, management of comorbidities/complication prevention, and nutritional support were also suggested. This multidisciplinary approach reduced the total healthcare cost.

CONCLUSION

This guideline presents comprehensive recommendations for the rehabilitation of adult patients after hip fracture surgery.

Comparison of clinical outcomes with hip replacement versus PFNA in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA)

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of HR and PFNA in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly.

METHODS

We carried out this review according to the principle of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline. The clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective cohort studies, retrospective cohort studies (RCSs), and case-control studies involving HR and PFNA in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly from 2000 to 2020 were compared by searching Web of Science, Pubmed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase. The quality of the included cohort study (CS) lines was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The quality of the included RCT lines was evaluated using Jadad. Forest plots were drawn by RevMan5.4 software based on the results and the data were analyzed.

RESULTS

After screening, a total of 9 articles were included, of which one was a clinical RCT and eight were RCSs with 1374 patients. The operative time of the PFNA group was shorter [WMD = 15.20; 95% CI (13.17, 17.23), P < .05] and the intraoperative blood loss was less [WMD = 178.81; 95% CI (97.24, 260.38), P < .05] than the HR group, while the first weight-bearing time of the HR group was shorter [WMD = -7.70; 95% CI (-10.54, -4.86), P  < .05] than the PFNA group. There was no significant difference in the length of hospital stay, HHS, postoperative orthopedic complications, and postoperative medical complications between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

With the development of HR technology and minimally invasive technology, the trauma caused by surgery is decreasing. Under the premise of improving perioperative management, such as optimizing the preoperative preparation and postoperative management, shortening the operative time, reducing intraoperative blood loss, and actively managing co-existing diseases, HR has more advantages than PFNA in the treatment of senile intertrochanteric fractures.

Predictors of Long-Term Pain After Hip Arthroplasty in Patients With Femoral Neck Fractures: A Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

To identify factors associated with the development of prolonged pain after hip fracture surgery.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Eighty hospitals in 10 countries.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

One thousand four hundred forty-one hip fracture patients in the HEALTH trial.

INTERVENTIONS

Total hip arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Moderate-to-severe pain (at least 2 activities on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis questionnaire pain subscale with scores ≥2) at 12 and 24 months after hip arthroplasty.

RESULTS

Of 840 and 726 patients with complete baseline data and outcomes at 1-year and 2-year follow-up, 96 (11.4%) and 80 (11.0%) reported moderate-to-severe pain, respectively. An increased risk of pain at both 1 and 2 years after surgery was associated with reporting moderate-to-severe hip pain before fracture [absolute risk increase (ARI) 15.3%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 6.44%-24.35%; ARI 12.5%, 95% CI 2.85%-22.12%, respectively] and prefracture opioid use (ARI 15.6%, 95% CI 5.41%-25.89%; ARI 21.1%; 95% CI 8.23%-34.02%, respectively). Female sex was associated with an increased risk of persistent pain at 1 year (ARI 6.2%, 95% CI 3.53%-8.84%). A greater risk of persistent pain at 2 years was associated with younger age (≤79-year-old; ARI 6.3%; 95% CI 2.67%-9.91%) and higher prefacture functional status (ARI 10.7%; 95% CI 3.80%-17.64%).

CONCLUSIONS

Among hip fracture patients undergoing arthroplasty, approximately one in 10 will experience moderate-to-severe pain up to 2 years after surgery. Younger age, female sex, higher functioning prefracture, living with hip pain prefracture, and use of prescription opioids were predictive of persistent pain.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Reoperation rate, mortality and ambulatory ability after internal fixation versus hemiarthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients: a study on Korean Hip Fracture Registry

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients is challenging and how to treat these patients remains controversial. The purposes of this study were to compare (1) reoperation rate, (2) mortality and (3) the postoperative change of walking ability between patients undergoing internal fixation (IF) and those undergoing bipolar hemiarthroplasty (HA) due to this type of fracture based on the data from the Korean Hip Fracture Registry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between July 2014 and June 2016, we extracted 623 unstable intertrochanteric fractures (616 patients aged ≥ 65 years) according to the classification of the Association for the Study of Internal Fixation-American Orthopaedic Trauma Association. Among the 564 patients, 396 were treated with IF (IF group) and 168 with bipolar HA (HA group). We compared the reoperation rate and mortality between IF group and HA group. In patients, who were followed up more than 2 years after the surgery, we compared the postoperative change of walking activity from ambulatory outdoors (Koval's grade 1, 2, 3) to housebound (Koval's grade 4, 5, 6).

RESULTS

The rate of reoperation was higher in the IF group (24/396, 6.1%) than in the HA (4/168, 2.4%) (p = 0.046). At the final follow-up, 79 (35.7%) of the 221 IF patients became housebound, whereas 21 (23.3%) of the 90 HA patients became housebound (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSION

This study showed HA was associated with lower rate of reoperation and lower decrement rate of walking ability compared to IF in elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures.

Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty should not be selected as the primary option for intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients aged 85 years or more

This study aimed to compare the early outcome of proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BPH) in elderly intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs) patients aged 85 years or more.This is a prospective cohort study, and we analyzed 120 elderly patients aged 85 years or more presented with ITFs who underwent BPH and PFNA between January 2017 and July 2018. 84 patients treated with PFNA were set as Group A, and 36 patients treated with BPH were set as Group B. Data such as gender, age, period of follow-up, fracture classification (according to Evans-Jensen classification), preoperative ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) physical status, interval between injury and operation, method of anaesthesia, duration of operation time, blood loss during surgery, time of weight bearing after operation, incidence of complications 2 weeks after operation, mortality rates and Harris Hip Score 12 months after operation were recorded and compared.There are no statistically significant differences when compared general data in patients from group A and B (P > .05). Operation time in Group A is less than Group B (103.33, 40-230 min vs 122.64, 75-180 minute, P < .01). Blood loss during surgery in Group A is less than Group B (70.24, 50-100 mL vs 194.44, 100-500 mL, P < .01). Time of weight bearing after operation in Group A is longer than Group B (50.70, 7-100 days vs 6.67, 4-14 days, P < .01). Incidence of complications 2 weeks after operation in Group A is less than Group B (14.12% vs 36.11%, P < .01). Mortality rates 12 months after operation in Group A is similar with Group B (13.10% vs 19.44%, P > .05). Harris Hip Score 12 months after operation in Group A is similar with Group B (64.64,0-91 points vs 64.41, 0-90 points, P > .05).Although BPH and PFNA have similar functional outcome and mortality rates 12 months after operation, BPH has more postoperative complications in elderly patients aged 85 years or more with ITFs, Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty should not be selected as the primary option for ITFs in elderly patients aged 85 years or more.

Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty should not be selected as the primary option for intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients

Intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs) in the elderly are still a big challenge for clinical doctors. Although proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BPH) are selected by most of the orthopaedic surgeons for elderly ITFs patients, there is still no consensus on the superiority of PFNA and BPH for ITFs in elderly. In this study, we hypothesized that BPH should not be selected as the primary option for ITFs in elderly patients, and analyzed clinical data of 202 elderly ITFs patients aged 80 years or more treated with PFNA (Group A) and BPH (Group B) to compare the early outcome of PFNA and BPH for ITFs in elderly patients aged 80 years or more. We found that operation time and blood loss during surgery in group A are less than in Group B. Time of weight bearing after operation in Group A is longer than in Group B. Incidence of complications 2 weeks after operation in Group A is 9.29% less than 25.81% in Group B (χ² = 9.539, p = 0.002). Mortality rates 12 months after operation in Group A is 11.43% similar with 19.35% in Group B (χ² = 2.261, p = 0.133). Harris Hip Score 12 months after operation in Group A is 68.00 ± 29.11 points similar with 65.73 ± 33.29 points in Group B (t = 0.490, p = 0.625). Therefore, for elderly ITFs patients aged 80 years or more, BPH should not be selected as the primary option for ITFs in elderly patients.

Which implant is better for beginners to learn to treat geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures: A randomised controlled trial of surgeons, metalwork, and patients

BACKGROUND

We wondered whether the third-generation gamma nail-3 (GN-3) was better for junior surgeons to learn to treat geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures than proximal femoral nail antirotation-II (PFNA-II).

METHODS

This is a prospective randomised study of 350 patients who underwent GN-3 fixation and PFNA-II carried out by junior orthopaedic trauma surgeons from January 2011 February 2017. We compared nail positioning, complication rates, operative and fluoroscopy time, blood transfused, time to mobilisation, hospital stay, fracture union, mismatch, mortality and postoperative outcomes. The minimum follow-up was 12 months (mean, 27.2 months; range, 12-42 months).

RESULTS

The recovery rate of the GN-3 group was higher than that of the PFNA-II group significantly. Compared with the PFNA-II group, the GN-3 group was superior in fracture gap, while operative time, fluoroscopy time, blood transfused, time to mobilisation, hospital stay, Harris Hip Score, reoperation, mortality and so on had no significant difference between two groups. There were five cases with cutout through the femoral neck in the GN-3 group, whereas in the PFNA-II group, we only had two cases with significant difference. The area of match in the GN-3 group conformed to that of the femur of Asian population better than that in the PFNA-II group.

CONCLUSIONS

PFNA-II and GN-3 internal fixation are both effective methods for junior orthopaedic trauma surgeons to treat femoral intertrochanteric fracture. But our study reveals better results of the GN-3 group over the PFNA-II group on recovery rate. There is a high rate of cutout in patients treated with the GN-3, especially for those with bone defect or serious osteoporosis.

THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE

The results of this work have the potential to improve the cognition of geriatric intertrochanteric femur fractures for junior surgeons, supplying the theoretical basis for the selection and comparison of Intramedullary nail. Such a guidance will allow better healing, fewer complications, and ultimately improved outcomes.

Should early weightbearing be allowed after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric femur fractures? A finite element study

BACKGROUND

This study aims to investigate the effects of early weightbearing after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric fractures.

METHODS

Femurs with different types of trochanteric fractures were modeled according to AO/OTA classification. Fractures were ideally reduced with one mm gap between fragments and fixed with intramedullary nails. Forces were applied simulating single- (Body weight: 60 kg, joint reaction force: 1999.2 N, abductor muscle force:1558.8 N) and double-leg standing positions (Joint reaction force: 196 N). In another model, a 500 Nm rotational force was applied as a simulation of a fall.

RESULTS

A higher level of stress was determined at the calcar femorale, the fracture site, the holes for the lag screws, and the hole for the proximal locking screw on the nail, the threadless parts of the lag screws, and the mid-portion of the nail. During the single-leg stance, up to 3 mm displacement was observed with the reverse oblique type of fractures. In the simulation of the fall, 1.5 mm displacement occurred at the fracture site. No displacement was measured at stabile and type 31A2 fracture models. In addition, higher levels of stress were measured at the body of the nail (up to 133 MPa), proximal screws (up to 133 MPa) and at the bone distal to the nail (up to 84.3 MPa), but all values were under the limit of the yield stress of the bone and the titanium.

CONCLUSION

Full weightbearing after intramedullary fixation of trochanteric femur fractures may be allowed except in obese patients and patients with 31A3 type fractures according to the AO/OTA classification. The use of support is recommended in order to prevent complications. Implant removal can be discussed with patients after fracture union in order to prevent possible periprosthetic fractures.

Influence of mobilization and weight bearing on in-hospital outcome in geriatric patients with hip fractures

INTRODUCTION

Early recovery of mobilization after a fracture of the hip is associated with improved long-term ability to walk, lower complication rates, and mortality. In this context, early mobilization and full weight bearing are favorable. The aim of this study was (1) to analyze the influence of time between operation and first mobilization on in-hospital outcome and (2) the influence of early mobilization, full weight bearing, and ASA on pain, mobility of the hip, and ability to walk during the in-hospital phase of recovery.

METHODS

This is a retrospective in-hospital study of 219 patients aged 70 years or older who were treated with surgery after a hip fracture. Data were collected by a review of medical records. The outcomes were mortality, complications, length of stay, and the Merle d'Aubigné score which evaluates pain, mobility of the hip, and ability to walk. Factors were sought in bivariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

A shorter time between operation and first mobilization was significantly associated with lower in-hospital mortality and complications. Early mobilization (within 24 h after the operation) and full weight bearing had no influence on pain, mobility of the hip, and ability to walk as well as length of stay in our cohort. Fracture type and treatment influenced mobility of the hip, while age as well as physical health status affected the ability to walk.

DISCUSSION

Patients with femoral neck fractures, respectively after total hip arthroplasty, had less pain and showed better mobility of the hip and ability to walk during hospitalization than patients with trochanteric fractures; these results were irrespective of early vs. late mobilization and full vs. partial weight bearing. Foremost, a shorter time between operation and first mobilization is associated with lower complication and mortality rates.

Functional Outcomes of Fragility Fracture Integrated Rehabilitation Management in Sarcopenic Patients after Hip Fracture Surgery and Predictors of Independent Ambulation

OBJECTIVES

To compare the changes in the functional level of patients with versus without sarcopenia who received by fragility fracture integrated rehabilitation management (FIRM) after hip fracture (HF) surgery over a 6-month follow-up period and to identify variables influencing independent ambulation (IA) at 6 months after HF.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

Three in-hospital rehabilitation setting.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients older than 65 years of age (N=80) categorized by the presence of sarcopenia.

INTERVENTION

The FIRM program during the-2 week hospital stay after surgery.

MEASUREMENTS

Main outcomes for ambulatory function (Koval score, Functional Ambulatory Category) and other secondary outcomes were measured at rehabilitation admission, at discharge, at 3 months and 6 months after surgery. Other secondary outcomes were measured. The possibility of IA at 6 months after surgery were also investigated.

RESULTS

Sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia patients did not differ significantly in terms of changes in ambulation or other functions over a 6-month follow-up (p < 0.001 or p = 0.001). The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of final functional status (6 months). The IA ratios of the two groups did not significantly differ at 6 months after surgery (sarcopenia [54.3%] and non-sarcopenia [64.5%]). IA before fracture (p = 0.039) and age (≥80 years) (p = 0.03) were independent predictors and sarcopenia was not a predictor for the possibility of IA at 6-months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The FIRM program was effective for promoting functional recovery in older patients with fragility HF, either with or without sarcopenia. The present findings provide evidence of the pressing need for integrated rehabilitation management in fragility fracture care to improve functional recovery in patients with sarcopenia.

Mid-Term Survivals After Cementless Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty for Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures in Elderly Patients

BACKGROUND

Treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients remains challenging. The purpose of this prospective study is to determine clinical and radiological results of cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a fully porous-coated stem in osteoporotic elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures with follow-up over 5 years.

METHODS

From January 2010 to December 2011, we performed 123 cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasties using fully porous-coated stem to treat unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients with osteoporosis. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients died and 14 patients were lost during the follow-up period. Mean follow-up period was 61.8 months postoperatively. Their mean Harris hip score was 77 points (range 36-100). None of these hips had loosening of the stem or osteolysis. Postoperative complications included nonunion of greater trochanter in 2 hips and dislocation in 2 hips. Two patients were reoperated due to periprosthetic fracture. One patient underwent implant revision due to periprosthetic infection. Thirty-one patients maintained walking activities similar to those before fracture. With follow-up period of 83 months, cumulative survival rates were 97.3% and 99.1% with reoperation for any reason and femoral stem revision as endpoint, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Cementless bipolar hemiarthroplasty using a fully porous-coated stem is a useful surgical treatment option for unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients with osteoporosis.

Fixation of Trochanteric Fragments in Cementless Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty of Unstable Intertrochanteric Fracture: Cerclage Wiring

Purpose

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty (HA) is an option for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fracture in elderly patients. There is a raising concern regarding cable-grip related complications for the fixation of trochanteric fragments. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate outcome of cementless HA with fixation for the trochanteric fragments using monofilament wires in unstable intertrochanteric fracture.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed 92 cementless bipolar HAs using a grit-blasted long stem design for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in 91 elderly patients with a mean age of 81.7 years. During the arthroplasty, trochanteric fracture fragments were fixed using 1 or 2 vertical wires and transverse wires. We evaluated the clinical outcomes such as abductor power, ambulatory ability and wire-related complications, and radiologic outcomes including the union of the trochanteric fragment and subsidence of stem.

Results

Sixty-two patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years (mean, 59 months) postoperatively. The mean abductor power and Koval category was 4.1 (range, 3 to 5) and 4.6 (range, 1 to 6). The wire was broken in 3 hips (4.8%) and the nonunion of the greater trochanter occurred in 1 hips (1.6%). Two stems subsided by 3 mm and 8 mm, respectively, during postoperative 6 weeks, after which the subsidence was not progressive.

Conclusion

Cerclage wiring of the trochanter using monofilament wire leads to acceptable outcome in cementless HA for senile patients with unstable intertrochanteric fracture. Cerclage wiring using a monofilament wire is recommended for the fixation of trochanteric fragments.

Surgical treatment of osteoporotic fractures: An update on the principles of management

The treatment of osteoporotic fractures continues to challenge orthopedic surgeon. The fragility of the underlying bone in conjunction with the need for specific implants led to the development of explicit surgical techniques in order to minimize implant failure related complications, morbidity and mortality. From the patient's perspective, the existence of frailty, dementia and other medical related co-morbidities induce a complex situation necessitating high vigilance during the perioperative and post-operative period. This update reviews current principles and techniques essential to successful surgical treatment of these injuries.

A clinical study on arthroplasty for failed internal fixation of hip fractures and review of literature

Background & Objective:

Hip fracture is common osteoporotic fracture associated sometimes with failed internal fixation. Joint replacement is commonly used to salvage failed internal fixation of hip fractures (FIFHF). Our objective was to present the outcome of Arthroplasty after FIFHF in our patients.

Methods:

A prospective analysis was made on consecutive patients who underwent prosthetic replacements for FIFHF in Orthopaedics Department of Xuanwu Hospital between June 2012 and January 2015. Fifty six patients were included. There were 32 cases of failed internal fixation of femoral neck fracture (FIFFNF) and 24 cases of failed internal fixation of intertrochanteric fracture (FIFIF). The reoperations included 36 cases of total hip replacements, and 20 cases of bipolar femoral head replacements. Cemented prostheses were used in 19 patients (long-stems in 7 patients), and uncemented prostheses in 37 patients (long-stems in 12 patients). The patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months or until their death.

Results:

Two patients died of pulmonary infection in the perioperative period, two died of myocardial infarction in two months after the operation, and the rest survived 12 month follow-up at the least. The mean Harris hip scores of the patients were 47 and 85 before and after the operation, respectively. The rate of Excellent and Good results is 82.7%. T tests showed that difference between pre and post-operation Harris hip scores is statistically significant (p <0.001).

Conclusions:

Arthroplasty may serve as a suitable salvage technique for FIFHF, and long-stem prosthesis replacement is proved to obtain reliable curative effect, especially in FIFIF.