Diagnosis and Management of Intraoperative Fractures in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

Femoral stem extraction devices

INTRODUCTION

As the number of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures continues to increase, so too does the demand for revision surgery, with a 43-70% rise in revision THA anticipated by 2030. Femoral stem extraction in revision THA is particularly challenging and may lead to complications like femoral bone loss or fractures. However, increasing catalogue of femoral stems available for primary and revision THA has led technological advances in extraction devices to potentially overcome these limitations. This review aims to discuss the identification of femoral implants and the various femoral stem extraction devices currently available.

METHODS

A scoping review of current literature was conducted to explore currently available femoral extraction devices. The devices not available in literature but used in clinical practice have also been included. This review focused on the technical components, advantages, and limitations of different femoral extraction tools, including osteotomes, reciprocating saws, high-speed burrs, trephines, and extraction systems like the Watson Extraction System, Exodus Revision Hip System, Shukla Hip Universal Stem Extraction System, and DePuy Synthes Extractors.

RESULTS

Identifying femoral implants is a critical step in preoperative planning to allow for appropriate equipment to be available during revision surgery. The present review highlights that no single extraction device is universally applicable. Tools like flexible osteotomes, burrs, and trephines offer versatility but may risk bone damage. Advanced systems like the Watson Extraction System and Shukla Hip Universal Stem Extraction System provide more precise extraction, reducing the likelihood of cortical perforations and decreasing operative time.

CONCLUSIONS

Efficient femoral stem extraction in rTHA is essential for managing complications and preserving bone stock. While traditional tools remain valuable, the development of specialized extraction systems offers improved precision and efficiency. Preoperative planning, including accurate implant identification, and the selection of appropriate extraction devices are crucial for successful outcomes in revision hip arthroplasty.

What is the clinical utility of acoustic and vibrational analyses in uncemented total hip arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Despite recent developments in THA, a more objective method is needed to assist orthopedic surgeons in identifying the insertion endpoint of the broaching procedure. Therefore, this systematic review evaluated the in-vivo efficacy of various acoustic and vibration analyses in detecting proper implant seating, identifying intraoperative complications, and quantifying the accuracy of predictive modeling using acoustics.

METHODS

Four electronic databases were searched on July 23rd, 2023, to retrieve articles evaluating the use of acoustic analysis during THA. The search identified 835 unique articles, which were subsequently screened by two independent reviewers as per our inclusion and exclusion criteria. In total, 12 studies evaluating 580 THAs were found to satisfy our criteria and were included in this review.

RESULTS

Methodologically, analyses have suggested stopping broaching when consecutive blows emit similar acoustic profiles (maximum peak frequency ± 0.5 kHz), which indicates proper implant seating in terms of stability and mitigates subsidence. Also, abrupt large deviations from the typical progression of acoustic signals while broaching are indicative of an intraoperative fracture. Since height, weight, femoral morphological parameters, and implant type have been shown to alter acoustic emissions while hammering, incorporating these factors into models to predict subsidence or intraoperative fracture yielded virtually 100% accuracy in identifying these adverse events.

CONCLUSION

These findings support that acoustic analyses during THA show promise as an accurate, objective, and non-invasive method to predict and detect proper implant fixation as well as to identify intraoperative fractures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration of the study protocol: CRD42023447889, 23 July 2023.

Intraoperative Acetabular Fractures in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Management and Functional Outcomes

PURPOSE

Intraoperative acetabular fracture (IAF) is a non-common complication of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Despite the prevalence of intraoperative periprosthetic fractures are increasing, little has been written about this type of fracture. The main objective is to analyze possible risk factors, treatment options and functional outcomes associated with IAF.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2020, 4 senior arthroplasty surgeons performed 5540 uncemented primary THA. We reviewed our Total Joint Registry and found 18 cases with an IAF. We analyzed demographic factors, medical history, preoperative diagnose, acetabular cups designs, anatomic location of the fracture, treatment, associated complications and functional outcomes. The minimum duration of follow-up was 12 months.

RESULTS

The prevalence of an IAF was 0,3%. All the acetabular cups were hemispherical modular. The most frequent acetabular cup associated with an IAF was the CSF Plus (JRI). In two cases the acetabular components were judged to be stable and no additional treatment was done. In the other sixteen patients, various surgical procedures were carried out. Almost 30% of patients that sustained an IAF had some complication during their follow up. Moreover, poor functionality outcomes were obtained (12.1 ± 4.1). in the final follow up accordance to Postel Merle d'Aubingé score.

CONCLUSION

Although IAF is a rare complication of THA, maintaining a high index of suspicion is important as they can be difficult to identify. Still with an adequate early treatment they have poor functionality and high risk of associated complications.

Total Hip Arthroplasty with Extra-small Femoral Stems in Extremely Hypoplastic Femurs: A Case-Series Study

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with hypoplastic femurs presents a significant challenge to orthopedic surgeons due to the limited space available for implant placement. Therefore, the extra-small femoral stems have been proposed as a solution to this problem, but there are limited data on the outcomes. We aimed to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes of THA in patients with extremely hypoplastic femurs using the Bencox CM stem (Corentec), an extra-small femoral stem.

Methods

We included 6 hips from 4 patients. The mean age of the patients was 41.2 years (range, 19.6-60.4 years). The mean height was 135.1 cm (range, 113.6-150.0 cm) with a mean body mass index of 25.7 kg/m2 (range, 21.3-31.1 kg/m2). The diagnoses for THA were sequelae of septic arthritis in childhood, pseudoachondroplasia, spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Preoperative computed tomography scans were conducted to assess the extent of proximal femoral hypoplasia. The clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Harris Hip Score, while the radiological outcomes were evaluated using radiographs. The mean follow-up was 2.3 years (range, 1.0-5.9 years).

Results

The average modified Harris Hip Score improved to 88.8 at the final follow-up. Intraoperative femoral fractures occurred in 2 cases (33.3%). During the follow-up, 1 stem underwent varus tilting from postoperative 6 weeks to 6 months without subsidence. Otherwise, all stems showed good osteointegration at the latest follow-up. No hip dislocations, periprosthetic joint infection, or loosening of the prosthesis occurred.

Conclusions

The use of extra-small femoral stems in THA for extremely hypoplastic femurs can provide reasonable clinical and radiological outcomes with minimal complications. We suggest that this femoral stem could be a viable option for patients with extremely hypoplastic femurs.

Periprosthetic fracture following arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture: is a cemented stem protective?

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) carry significant morbidity following arthroplasty for femoral neck fracture (FNF). This study assessed fracture complications following arthroplasty for FNF and the effect of cement fixation of the femoral component on intraoperative and post-operative PFF.

METHODS

Between February 2014 and September 2021, 740 patients with a FNF who underwent arthroplasty were analyzed for demographics, surgical management, use of cement for fixation of the femoral component, and subsequent PFF. Variables were compared with Mann-Whitney or Chi-square as appropriate. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess independent risk factors associated with intraoperative or post-operative PFF.

RESULTS

There were 163 THAs (41% cemented) and 577 HAs (95% cemented). There were 28 PFFs (3.8%): 18 post-operative and 10 intraoperative. Fewer post-operative PFFs occurred with cemented stems (1.63% vs. 6.30%, p = 0.002). Mean time from surgery to presentation with post-operative PFF was 14 months (0-45 months). Mean follow-up time was 10.3 months (range: 0-75.7 months). In multivariate regression, use of cement and THA was independently associated with decreased post-operative PFF (cement: OR 0.112, 95% CI 0.036-0.352, p < 0.001 and THA: OR 0.249, 95% CI 0.064-0.961, p = 0.044). More intraoperative fractures occurred during THA (3.68% vs. 0.69%, p = 0.004) and non-cemented procedures (5.51% vs. 0.49%, p < 0.001). In multivariate regression, use of cement was protective against intraoperative fracture (OR 0.100, CI 0.017-0.571, p = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with a FNF treated with arthroplasty, cementing the femoral component is associated with a lower risk of intraoperative and post-operative PFF. Choice of procedure may be based on patient factors and surgeon preference.

Conversion Birmingham Hip Resurfacing in Managing Post-traumatic Arthritis With Retained Femoral Hardware: A Case Report

CASE

A 70-year-old man with a year-long history of arthritic pain in his left hip presented to our clinic. He had a left intertrochanteric hip fracture 6 years ago, fixed with an open reduction internal fixation with a cephalomedullary nail. He underwent a conversion Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) with removal of the proximal helicoidal blade and retention of the intramedullary nail. At 7-year follow-up, the patient reported satisfactory clinical outcomes and excellent radiographic fixation.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights using conversion BHR in patients with post-traumatic arthritis with retained femoral hardware as an alternative to conventional total hip arthroplasty.

Long-term survival and complication rate of cementless prosthetic stems in primary total hip arthroplasty categorized by types according to Mont classification: a regional registry-based study on 53,626 implants

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this retrospective registry-based study is to assess survival and causes of failure of cementless stem implants used in total hip arthroplasty (THAs), to ascertain if there are differences when these are categorized according to the six types described by Mont.

METHODS

Data collected from the regional registry regarding all primary THAs performed from 2000 to 2019 were analyzed. Femoral prosthetic stems were divided into the six types of Mont classification. For each stem type, number of implants, survival and causes of failure were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

The most frequently implanted stem type was the 3c type (53.4%). Type 1 had the lowest stem failure rate (1.6%), and type 6 showed the highest (3.9%). Periprosthetic fracture was the most frequent complication in type 6, accounting for 34.5% of failures. Aseptic loosening was the main complication in type 2 stems, accounting for 36.4% of failures. Pairwise comparisons showed significant higher survival of type 1 compared to type 3c (p = 0.000026) and type 6 (p = 0.000076), and between type 3a compared to type 3c (p = 0.03) and type 6 (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

Significant variations in implant survival rates were found among the six Mont-types of cementless stems. These findings emphasize the paramount importance of stem design and fixation area in determining long-term survival, providing a guidance for orthopedic surgeons in the selection of the most appropriate stem for primary THA, contributing to our understanding of cementless stem performance, presenting invaluable insights to further improve patient outcomes in THA surgery.

Treatment of Intraoperative Trochanteric Fractures During Primary and Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty

Intraoperative trochanteric fractures during primary and revision total hip arthroplasty typically occur during femoral canal preparation and component placement. Several fixation strategies, including wires, cables, cable grips, and plating, are available for fracture fixation. Surgeons should consider patient activity level preoperatively, bone mineral density, and fracture morphology when deciding on fixation strategies. Patient activity must be modified postoperatively to prevent fracture displacement and additional complications. Patients must be counseled postoperatively about the possibility of decreased clinical outcomes.

Incidence and Distribution of Deep Vein Thrombosis Following Total Hip Arthroplasty Using an Anterolateral Supine Approach

Purpose

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potential major complication in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, the incidence of VTE following THA using anterolateral supine approach (ALS) has not been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of perioperative VTE and the distribution and characteristics of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following ALS THA.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective single-arm study analyzed the 182 consecutive hips of 164 patients who underwent primary ALS THA. Pharmacological prophylaxis consisted of enoxaparin 20 mg twice daily for approximately 6 days starting 24 h postoperatively until duplex ultrasonography was performed to determine whether postoperative DVT was present. DVT was assessed by whole-leg Doppler ultrasound, and the location and characteristics of any thrombus were recorded. If pulmonary thromboembolism was suspected, contrast-enhanced computed tomography was performed.

Results

The overall incidence of VTE was 9.9% for DVT (18/182 hips) and 0.5% for pulmonary thromboembolism (1/182 hips). Most DVTs were in the soleal vein on the affected side and showed isoechoic or hypoechoic echogenicity. All thrombi were non-floating.

Conclusion

Following ALS THA with standard pharmacological prophylaxis and an early weight-bearing protocol, the incidence of perioperative DVT was approximately 10%, mostly occurring in the lower leg.

Periprosthetic acetabular fractures as a complication of total hip arthroplasty

Periprosthetic acetabular fractures are rare but potentially devastating complications of total hip arthroplasty. As the number of total hip arthroplasties performed annually increases, so has the incidence of periprosthetic fractures, with the topic being spotlighted more frequently in the orthopaedic community. There is a particular sparsity of literature regarding periprosthetic acetabular fractures, with periprosthetic femoral fractures after total hip arthroplasty being traditionally far more commonly reported. This article aims to provide an up-to-date review of the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, classifications, and management strategies for periprosthetic acetabular fractures after total hip arthroplasty.

Global Research Trends on Periprosthetic Fractures After Artificial Joint Replacement Between 2000 and 2021: A Bibliometric Analysis and Visualized Study

Background

Periprosthetic fractures after prosthetic joint replacement have received increasing attention over the past decades. The purpose of this study was to estimate the trends and state of research in periprosthetic fractures.

Methods

Articles on periprosthetic fractures were retrieved from the Web of Science database. Information about each article, including country/region, author, institution, issue, journal, and keywords, was recorded for bibliometric analysis. The analysis included only English-language articles from 2000 to 2021, from 58 countries and regions.

Results

A total of 1668 original articles meeting the research requirements were obtained. The number of manuscripts on periprosthetic fractures has experienced rapid growth, especially since 2009. Productivity was dominated by the USA, followed by the UK and Germany. The most prolific institution was Mayo Clinic. The most cited article was published by Sharkey, P.F. in 2002. The five most frequent keywords were "periprosthetic fractures", "total hip arthroplasty", " revision", "arthroplasty", "total knee arthroplasty".

Conclusions

Based on the current trends of globalization, there is a rising trend in publications on periprosthetic fractures, with the largest annual contributions made by the United States. The most influential contributors are researchers from the United States and England. In addition, Journal of Arthroplasty is the journal with the most research in this field. Geriatric trauma and dual mobility are the new hot topics in this field. Together these studies have played a key role in periprosthetic fractures decision-making and management.

Undetected Intraoperative Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures in Patients Undergoing Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case Series and Literature Review

OBJECTIVE

Periprosthetic fracture in total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be catastrophic, and early detection and appropriate management are vital to the overall prognosis. This study aimed to describe and summarize the features of undetected intraoperative periprosthetic femoral fractures (IPFFs) in primary THA patients and treatment measures and to review the relevant literature.

METHODS

We reviewed a total of 6350 primary THAs performed at our institution between January 2013 and December 2020 and screened all IPFFs. Of 138 IPFFs, 24 were undetected and met the inclusion criteria. We recorded and compared basic patient and operative information and measured some parameters to evaluate canal morphologies based on preoperative radiographs. We also compared fracture line characteristics using postoperative radiographs to summarize the features of intraoperative fractures and propose treatment strategies. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to test the normality of the variable distributions. Measured parameters in all groups were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and compared using Dunnett's test. The χ² and Fisher exact tests were used to compare reoperation rates across the groups. Interrater and intrarater reliability were evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

Among the 24 hips, there was no significant difference in patient demographics, basic operative information or morphology. The incidence of IPFFs in primary THA patients was 2.17%, and up to 17.4% of IPFFs were undetected until postoperative fluoroscopy. The incidence of undetected IPFFs among all primary THA patients was 0.38% and varied by stem type, with the highest incidence in femurs with either anatomical (1.04%, 4/385) or modular stems (0.90%, 9/1003). Femurs with anatomical stems had a higher reoperation rate. The distal periprosthetic (Gruen zone 4) fracture line of femurs with tapered stems was more prone to involve the medial or lateral bone cortex, which could cause instability.

CONCLUSION

An undetected IPFF is most likely in femurs fitted with a prosthesis of an inappropriate size or type. Anatomical stems will most likely cause unstable fractures; thus, it is recommended to use them with caution and note the possibility of medial distal femoral fracture. Improper modular stem type or size selection results in longitudinal fractures of the distal femur, and prophylactic cerclage wire binding is recommended in dysplastic hips. Incorrect use of tapered stems in well-ossified femurs may cause distal femoral fractures involving the medial or lateral bone cortex. Intraoperative fluoroscopy after implantation may help detect hidden fractures.

Cerclage wire or positional cortical screw for the treatment of intraoperative calcar fractures during primary total hip arthroplasty? A biomechanical study

BACKGROUND

During primary total hip arthroplasty, intra-operative calcar fractures have been historically treated with cerclage wires. However, interfragmentary screw fixation technique can possibly achieve the same results with technical advantages. The aim of this biomechanical study was to assess stability of calcar fractures fixed using interfragmentary screw technique compared to a traditional cerclage system specifically in context of total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

Thirty-two periprosthetic fractures were reduced using either a single cerclage cable or an intracortical positional screw perpendicular to the fracture line. Axial and torsional load testing was terminated after experimental model failure.

FINDINGS

No significant difference was obtained for all output parameters when comparing cerclage wires versus interfragmentary screw fixation respectively. Load at failure: 8043 ± 712 N vs 7425 ± 854 N (p = 0.115). Load at calcar fracture propagation: 6240 ± 2207 N versus 6220 ± 966 N (p = 0.668). Maximum stiffness before failure: 617 ± 115 N/mm vs 839 ± 175 N/mm (p = 0.100) and stiffness at calcar fracture propagation reached 771 ± 153 Nmm vs 886 ± 129 N/mm (p = 0.197). Torque to failure levels obtained were 59.4 ± 7.1 N*m vs 60.9 ± 12.0 N*m (p = 0.908). Torque to calcar fracture propagation, 51.6 ± 6.1 N*m vs 48.5 ± 9.8 N*m (p = 0.298). Torsional stiffness at failure, 0.38 ± 0.03 N*m\deg. vs 0.43 ± 0.13 N*m\deg. (p = 0.465). Torsional stiffness at calcar fracture propagation were 0.37 ± 0.03 N*m\deg. vs 0.45 ± 0.17 N*m\deg. (p = 0.462).

INTERPRETATION

The strength of fixation and stability of the implant were similar for both techniques. In the synthetic bone model tested, using an interfragmentary screw conveyed similar stability to the constructs in the management of an intra-operative medial calcar fractures. Thus, potentially giving surgeons an alternative option for intraoperative fracture fixation during primary total hip arthroplasty.

Are immediate postoperative X-Rays valuable in evaluating complications of primary total hip arthroplasty?

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the complications of primary total hip arthroplasty based on immediate postoperative X-rays. The overall quality and cost of X-rays were assessed.

METHODS

The institutional database was queried to identify all patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty in a single institution between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018. Immediate postoperative X-rays were reviewed to identify the complications such as periprosthetic fractures, dislocation, and fixation failure. The quality and cost of X-ray were assessed. The complications were categorized as "known" and "unknown" according to the intraoperative fluoroscopic results.

RESULTS

A total of 518 total hip arthroplasties were included in this study. Based on intraoperative fluoroscopy, periprosthetic fractures were found in 10 (2%) THAs. Compared to the X-rays taken immediately after surgery, 9 periprosthetic fractures (recorded as "known") were found and 1 was not (recorded as "unknown"). There was no significant difference between intraoperative fluoroscopy and X-rays (P > 0.05). Of the 518 X-rays, 225 (43%) were of suboptimal quality. The cost of a single portable pelvic X-ray was $647.

CONCLUSION

In total hip arthroplasty, X-rays taken immediately after surgery rarely reveal unknown complications. The X-rays are often of suboptimal quality, have minimal clinical utility, and are less cost-effective.

Technical Considerations and Avoiding Complications in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is considered to be the surgical procedure of the 20th century. Current projections show that by 2030, primary THA is expected to grow by 171%, with revision THA expected to increase by 142% in the same time frame. Although complications are not common, when they occur, they can cause notable morbidity to the patient. Understanding the unique anatomy and needs of each patient will prepare the surgeon to avoid soft-tissue or bony injury, optimize prosthesis placement, and decrease the risk of infection. This article aims to highlight common causes of early revision THA and provide specific technical strategies to avoid these complications. Following a systematic approach to the primary THA and using these techniques will assist the surgeon in avoiding complications to revision hip arthroplasty.

Does intraoperative periprosthetic occult fracture of the acetabulum affect clinical outcomes after primary total hip arthroplasty?

INTRODUCTION

The frequency of intraoperative periprosthetic occult fracture of the acetabulum (IPOA) in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) is relatively high. However, the effect of this fracture on clinical outcome and survival of primary THA remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the impact of IPOA on the outcomes of primary THA during a minimum follow-up of 5 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective case-control study compared the outcomes of primary THA with or without IPOA during a minimum 5-year follow-up. Thirty-eight patients who underwent primary THA with IPOA (O group) were matched to 76 patients without IPOA (C group) between 2004 and 2013 based on age, sex, body mass index, primary diseases, cup diameter, cup design, and additional dome screw. Both groups underwent the same rehabilitation programs after surgery. We evaluated the Japanese Orthopaedic Association clinical outcomes score; postoperative complications, such as nerve injury, dislocation, heterotopic ossification, iliopsoas impingement, or infection; and radiographic outcomes. Additionally, we performed Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with cup aseptic loosening, cup failure revision, and all-cause revision as the endpoints.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the pre- and postoperative clinical scores, postoperative complication rates, and cup sagittal rotation between the two groups. Radiographic evaluations showed no aggravation of cases to overt fractures. Bone ingrowth was observed in all cases, and none of the acetabular cups had a progressive radiolucent line ≥ 2 mm in all the 3 acetabular zones. Ten-year survival rates for cup aseptic loosening and cup failure revision were 100% in both groups; those for all-cause revision were 97.4% (92.0-100%) and 100% in the O and C groups, respectively (p = 0.157).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary THA with IPOA provides favorable mid- to long-term outcomes. On IPOA diagnosis, although radiographic follow-up is necessary, additional treatments or rehabilitation programs are not required. Furthermore, postoperative computed tomography images for the detection of IPOA may be unnecessary.

Management of Periprosthetic Acetabular Fractures: A Critical Analysis and Review of the Literature

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Periprosthetic acetabular fractures are uncommon and infrequently the focus of studies.

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Acetabular fractures are occasionally recognized postoperatively when patients report unremitting groin pain weeks after surgery.

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The widespread use of cementless acetabular cups might lead to a higher number of fractures than are clinically detectable.

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Appropriate recognition, including mindfulness of preoperative patient and surgical risk factors, is critical to the successful management of acetabular complications.