Outcome oriented clinical research and quality measurement in fracture care

Objective

The paradigm shift according to the principles of Value-Based Healthcare is receiving growing attention. In Orthopedic Trauma care, there are no defined standards to provide an incentive system to recompensate for quality instead of quantity. The definitions of quality from the patient's view have to be validated and included in the reimbursement cycle. In our Department, we now have fully standardized and structured documentation and outcome measurement workflow from the clinical point of view.

Methods

We set up a Fracture Registry with a REDCap® Database to document every patient with surgical treatment. Included are all surgically treated fractures of the extremities, excluding the hand. Furthermore pelvic, acetabular, and periprosthetic fractures, joint dislocations, and tendon ruptures. With interfaces to our Clinical Documentation Systems, the administrative effort became very efficient. The interfaces provide a possibility to identify every patient with inclusion criteria and implement reminder feedback for Surgeons. We collect PROMs with the heartbeat-Software, and document CROMs with REDCap®. We merged these data using the software ‘R’. The documentation of each patient is completed with a database for Adverse Events.

Results

Data-entry rates were less than 50% in 2018 and have reached 99.1% for 2020 and 99.5% for 2021 for surgically treated fracture patients. Until the submission of this abstract, 2382 surgical procedures have been performed at our Department on 2073 hospitalized patients. 972 patients were included in the Fracture Registry (47%). In a feasibility study, we have merged clinical data with the PROMs of patients treated for distal radius (DR) and proximal humerus (PH) fractures. The baseline values for DR of the quality-of-life questionnaire EQ5D was 0.83 (n=144), after 3months 0.9 (n=58) and 0.97 one year after treatment (n=6). Although not more than a trend, we realized the same pattern for PH-patients with an EQ5D-Baseline of 0.75 (n=63), three months values of 0.75 (n=58), and one-year results of 0.87 (n=6).

Conclusion

Collecting structured data allows combining routine clinical data with PROMs and CROMs. This information is of inestimable value to define the quality of care for Orthopedic Trauma Surgery. Our combination of Databases to collect diagnosis, subjective and objective outcome measures has been proven feasible and showed high data quality.

Outcome measurement in trauma surgery with a fracture database and clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs)

Objective

Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) gain growing attention. The Food and Drug Administration suggested in 2009 to have PROMs for every new treatment and technology. The use of PROMs was further promoted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 in the USA. Recommendations from other national and international organizations include the OECD's Project of Patient-Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) and the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM). Our development and initiation of a Fracture Database started early in 2018. We orientated our database on the role model of the Swedish Fracture Registry.

Methods

REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) is a web interface for a SQL (Structured Query Language)-Database. We used it to program the Fracture Registry. We collect data about demographics, diagnosis, treatment, adverse events, clinical outcomes, and PROMs. The PROMS are recorded with the Software 'Heartbeat ONE' vs. 6.15.4. Inclusion criteria are all patients with fractures of the upper and lower extremity, including the pelvis and multiple injuries, treated surgically. Excluded are all patients with fractures of the hand as monotrauma and non-surgical treatment. We established questionnaire sets for each anatomical region. Every hospitalized patient is screened for inclusion criteria to get the baseline PROMs. Follow-up PROMs are collected at 3-months and 12-months in our outpatient clinic.

Results

In five months of collecting PROMs, we have evaluated 599 patients, 521 fulfilling the inclusion criteria. 329 (63%) questionnaire sets were completed. The mean time for answering the questions was 11-20 minutes. The input rate of 63% for PROMs accounts for the start of the process, with 22 (4%) patients being dismissed before answering the questionnaires. 93 (18%) patients denied participation. 52 (10%) patients were not able to participate (dementia, delirium). Other causes for missing data were language barriers (n = 28; 5%), medical reasons like polytraumatized patients (n = 4; 0.8%), and deceased patients (n = 15; 2.9%).

Conclusion

Most Orthopaedic Trauma centers publish data about PROMs from surgically treated patients. Starting in the first quarter of 2021, we will include non-surgically treated patients. We have optimized the process of including patients. Our aim is a response rate of more than 80% within this year to get representing data.

Treatment of humeral fractures with long PHILOS plates using a modified technique and approach avoids radial nerve palsy in the last 10 years

Objective

Radialis paresis is a known complication of plate osteosynthesis of the proximal humeral shaft. There are major differences with regard to surgical approach and implant. The standard treatment is a lateral-lateral approach. Here, iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve is a relevant complication. In our institution, these fractures have been treated with an adapted procedure for about 10 years. A long Philos plate is inserted proximally via a deltoido-pectoral approach. The plate is first torqued distally by about 45°-90° and then lies anteriorly on the humerus. The distal screws can be placed via anterior stab incisions. The advantage of this technique is that the implant and approach respect the anatomical course of the radial nerve and it does not have to be manipulated in an open exploratory manner. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of the surgical technique in relation to iatrogenic radial nerve paresis in comparison to the literature.

Methods

We analysed patients with a proximal humeral shaft fracture who were treated at our clinic with a long torqued philos plate using the adapted surgical method over the last 10 years. The fracture, the occurrence of iatrogenic radial damage and biometric data of the patients were analysed retrospectively.

Results

We found a total of 59 patients who underwent surgery according to the above-mentioned scheme between 2010 and 2020. The average age was 70.1 (40-101) years. There were 44 women and 15 men. 2 patients had a preoperatively documented radial nerve damage. In 57 patients, no damage could be found in the radialis supply area both pre- and postoperatively. 2 patients died shortly after surgery, 6 patients were loss to follow up. 2 patients had a tear of the distal plate bearing (1 malcompliance/1 pseudarthrosis). Both had to be revised. In the remaining 47 patients (78%), the healing process was unremarkable.

Conclusion

The described treatment of the proximal humeral shaft fracture has been successfully practised at our clinic for 10 years. Most of the fractures healed without complications. Compared to the exploration of the nerve, this method respects the anatomical course of the nerve and shows in the retrospective analysis that no iatrogenic damage to the radial nerve occurred. Thus, the surgical method represents a valid alternative to the established implants and classical surgical treatments.

Evaluation of radiographic fracture position 1 year after variable angle locking volar distal radius plating: a prospective multicentre case series

Treatment with a variable angle locking plate can, in theory, maintain near anatomic reduction of intra-articular distal radius fractures, but it is unknown to what extent reduction is maintained as measured by computed tomography. We assessed changes in radiographic fracture position 1 year post-operatively. We included 73 patients of whom 66 patients (90%) had radiographs available for review at 1 year post-operatively. We found a small (less than 2 mm or 2°) but statistically significant change in several measures. Accounting for inter-observer variability, this is probably within measurement error. We found no difference in change in fracture position or range of motion, grip strength or patient-reported outcome between the use of one or two distal rows of screws. Our results show that minimal changes in reduction can be expected after volar plate fixation in most patients. We recommend using only one screw row routinely, limiting costs, surgical time and the risk of misplacement of screws.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Interpretation of Post-operative Distal Humerus Radiographs After Internal Fixation: Prediction of Later Loss of Fixation

PURPOSE

Stable fixation of distal humerus fracture fragments is necessary for adequate healing and maintenance of reduction. The purpose of this study was to measure the reliability and accuracy of interpretation of postoperative radiographs to predict which implants will loosen or break after operative treatment of bicolumnar distal humerus fractures. We also addressed agreement among surgeons regarding which fracture fixation will loosen or break and the influence of years in independent practice, location of practice, and so forth.

METHODS

A total of 232 orthopedic residents and surgeons from around the world evaluated 24 anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of distal humerus fractures on a Web-based platform to predict which implants would loosen or break. Agreement among observers was measured using the multi-rater kappa measure.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of prediction of failure of fixation of distal humerus fracture on radiographs was 63%, specificity was 53%, positive predictive value was 36%, the negative predictive value was 78%, and accuracy was 56%. There was fair interobserver agreement (κ = 0.27) regarding predictions of failure of fixation of distal humerus fracture on radiographs. Interobserver variability did not change when assessed for the various subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

When experienced and skilled surgeons perform fixation of type C distal humerus fracture, the immediate postoperative radiograph is not predictive of fixation failure. Reoperation based on the probability of failure might not be advisable.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic III.

Classification and treatment of distal radius fractures: a survey among orthopaedic trauma surgeons and residents

Purpose

Classification, the definition of an acceptable reduction and indications for surgery in distal radius fracture management are still subject of debate. The purpose of this study was to characterise current distal radius fracture management in Europe.

Methods

During the European Congress of Trauma and Emergency Surgery (ECTES) 2015 a 20-question multiple-choice survey was conducted among the attending surgeons and residents of the hand and wrist session. Consensus was defined as more than 50 % identical answers (moderate consensus 50–75 % and high consensus more than 75 %).

Results

A total of 46 surgeons and residents participated in the survey. High consensus was found among both surgeons and residents for defining the AO/OTA classification as the preferred classification system. For the definition of an acceptable reduction, a moderate to high consensus could be determined. Overall, high consensus was found for non-operative treatment instead of operative treatment in dislocated extra- and intra-articular distal radius fractures with an acceptable closed reduction, regardless of age. We found high (surgeons) and moderate (residents) consensus on the statement that an intra-articular gap or step-off ≥2 mm, in patients younger than 65 years, is an absolute indication for ORIF. The same applied for ORIF in dislocated fractures without an acceptable closed reduction in patients younger than 75 years of age.

Conclusion

Current distal radius fracture management in Europe is characterised by a moderate to high consensus on the majority of aspects of fracture management.

[FLS - three letters alter secondary fracture prevention]

The increasing importance of preventive measures in the field of orthopedics and trauma surgery becomes apparent because of the demographic changes and the high risk for secondary fractures following osteoporotic fractures. Within the fracture treatment chain, orthopedics and trauma surgery are in the "pole position" to initiate these measures in geriatric patients. In the past orthopedists and trauma surgeons have constantly accused of neglecting secondary fracture prevention in fragility fracture patients. There are several reasons that speak in favor of us undertaking a role in secondary fracture prevention: osteoporosis medication is highly effective in fracture prevention when correctly indicated, the positive effects of osteoporosis therapy on fracture healing and legal issues. Arguments that have been used to justify neglect of secondary fracture prevention are undesired side effects related to osteoporosis medications, such as atypical femoral fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaws, interference of some specific drugs with fracture healing and the working conditions in emergency departments. These run contrary to the consideration of chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, secondary osteoporosis and the underlying disease could be overlooked and the increasing complexity of medicinal osteoporosis therapy. In the first part of the article these arguments are weighed against each other. In the second part the concept of a fracture liaison service (FLS) is discussed. The FLS framework now allows an active role to be taken with respect to secondary fracture prevention despite the busy daily routine schedule. Implementation of an FLS is facilitated by dedicated instruction protocols and programs. Self-financing of an FLS is currently possible only in some specific healthcare systems. In healthcare systems in German-speaking areas a cross-financing must be available and the value of an FLS indirectly presented. Apart from the financial aspects, implementation of a FLS is also worthwhile because it can be looked on as the future driving force of innovation.

Orthogeriatric care pathway: a prospective survey of impact on length of stay, mortality and institutionalisation

INTRODUCTION

Care pathways for elderly hip fracture patients are increasingly implemented but there has been only limited evaluation of their use. Our objective was to investigate the impact of such a care pathway on the use of healthcare resources and on patients' outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prospective survey covered 493 hip fracture patients 65 years of age or older that were treated either before "Usual Care = (UC)" or after "Co-Managed-Care = (CMC)" implementation of the care pathway. Primary outcome was length of stay (LoS). Secondary outcomes were 1-year mortality and change in residential status from prefracture baseline to 1-year after surgery. Data were analysed by descriptive and interferential statistics and adjustment for baseline differences amongst the two patient groups was done.

RESULTS

Patients in the CMC sample had more preexisting comorbidities (CCI 2.5 versus 2.1). Prior to the fracture, a larger proportion amongst them needed help in ADL (49 versus 26%), and they were more likely to reside in a nursing home (36 versus 29%). Prefracture mobility status was equal in both samples. In the CMC sample LoS was significantly shorter (LoS 8.6 versus 11.3 days, p < 0.01) and patients were less likely to experience a complication (59 vs 73%, p < 0.01) while being in the hospital. There was no significant difference in 1-year mortality or in change of residential status.

CONCLUSIONS

A care pathway for elderly hip fracture patients allowed decreased LoS without affecting mortality or change of residential status 1 year after fracture compared to prefracture baseline.

Recent aspects on outcomes in geriatric fracture patients

As the population ages, the number of fragility fractures is expected to increase dramatically. These injuries are frequently associated with less than satisfactory outcomes. Many of the patients experience adverse events or death, and few regain their pre-injury functional status. Many also lose their independence as a result of their fracture. This manuscript will explore problems and some potential solutions to evaluate the outcomes of geriatric fracture care. Specific, system-wide, and societal concerns will be discussed. Limited suggestions will be made for future steps to improve outcomes assessments.

[Osteosynthesis of combined radius head and capitulum humeri fractures with mini-implants]

INTRODUCTION

Combined injuries of the capitellum humeri and the radial head are rare. Most of them show combined osteocartilaginous lesions and collateral ligament lesions. Recommendations for treatment of these fatal injuries of the elbow are missing.

TYPE OF STUDY

Five cases were investigated in an retrospective analysis. The same approach was used for the osteocartilaginous lesion of the capitellum as well as the injury of the radial head. Internal fixation was done with mini-titanimplants, three of them combined with resorbable pins.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1996-1999 five patients (four men, one woman) with combined injury of the radial head and the capitellum were stabilized. The average age was 34 years (31-40 years). All fractures were stabilized by a direct radial approach with 1.5 mm or 2.0 mm lag screws partly with resorbable pins. All patients were evaluated radiologically and clinically according to the Mayo-elbow-performance score.

RESULTS

All patients were personally examined after an average period of 12.8 month (8-24 month) by an independent investigator. 4/5 patients were assessed for their satisfaction. No radiological signs of avascular necrosis of the capitellum or arthrosis were found. Three patients showed periarticular calcifications. The range of motion was averagely 124 degrees (extension 5-30 degrees, flexion 110-145 degrees), in three of five cases a secondary intervention for improvement of joint mobility was necessary. The Mayo-elbow-performance score rated for 85 points in average (range 70-100 points).

CONCLUSION

Direct screw fixation with mini-implants, eventually combined with resorbable pins allows to use the same approach for anatomic reconstruction and fixation of the capitellum humeri and radial head. Transarticular fragment fixation of the capitellum allows for safe compression. Therefore early functional rehabilitation is possible postoperatively. Secondary interventions for improve joint motion were necessary in three of five cases.

[Intramedullary nailing of humeral shaft fractures--initial experiences with an unreamed humerus nail]]

Interlocking intramedullary nailing has become the preferred method of internal fixation for diaphyseal fractures of the lower extremity. In shaft fractures of the humerus however open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws is still considered the gold standard for operative treatment. The unreamed humerus nail (UHN) is a new implant for interlocking intramedullary nailing, which allows for stable fixation of humerus shaft fractures and immediate functional after treatment. The UHN could thus become an equal alternative to plate osteosynthesis. From this point of view we analyzed retrospectively 19 shaft fractures of the humerus, which have been treated at our institution with an UHN. Infections and iatrogenic nerve lesions did not occur. One patient with a rotational malalignment of 45 degrees underwent a secondary procedure. In two out of ten fresh fractures the bone healing failed and resulted in a non-union. In all cases of pathological fractures a good palliation could be achieved. With exception of two patients the range of motion of the shoulder and elbow was symmetric. We conclude that the UHN is a real alternative to plate osteosynthesis. Compared with most series of plate osteosynthesis published in the literature the risk for iatrogenic lesions of the radial nerve appears to be lower. Even in this small series we found however a rather high rate of non-unions.

[Distal radius fractures]

Fractures of the distal end of the radius are the most common fractures in humans. The variants of type of fracture and associated injuries are numerous, depending on the mechanism of injury, the amount of energy absorbed and the quality of the bone. Treatment concepts evolve as our understanding of the physiopathology of this heterogeneous group of injuries increases. It is now commonly accepted that extraarticular anatomy and joint congruency, as well as ligamentous integrity, should be restored to obtain a good functional result. This paper provides an overview of current knowledge and discusses possible future trends.

The unstable shoulder girdle: early functional treatment utilizing open reduction and internal fixation

The unstable shoulder girdle--a combination of a scapular neck fracture with a clavicular fracture, acromioclavicular dislocation, or sternoclavicular dislocation--represents a rare and often underestimated injury. Sufficient treatment to permit early function is necessary to avoid a frozen shoulder as well as to treat concomitant thoracic injuries. This is possible only by open reduction and internal fixation. In most cases this can be achieved by a sole osteosynthesis of the clavicular injury. We retrospectively analyzed 12 cases and classified the results according to the Constant Score. This analysis showed excellent functional results in nearly all cases.

The coronal suture, a useful bony landmark in neurosurgery? Craniocerebral topography between bony landmarks on the skull and the brain

In the present study the variation of the localisation and the course of the coronal suture (CS) was examined on the lateral skull X-ray. The study shows a variation of the localisation and course of the CS from the average position within +/- 4 mm in 65-77% and extreme differences between minimum and maximum values between 16 and 21 mm. The CS has also a considerable variation in its localisation relative to the precentral gyrus. Additionally the craniocerebral relationships and the localisation of the precentral gyrus and pyramidal tract are altered by the lesion or the space occupying process itself. A more exact localisation of the precentral gyrus, respectively the pyramidal tract can be obtained with CT and intraoperative cortical stimulation of the motor strip.