The Cost-Effectiveness of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients 80 Years of Age and Older

The cost-effectiveness of guideline-recommended treatments for osteoarthritis: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To critically appraise the literature on the cost-effectiveness of guideline-recommended treatments for osteoarthritis (OA).

DESIGN

Electronic databases were searched for studies that provided incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) for treatments recommended by key international guidelines to manage OA in adults. Treatments were grouped as lifestyle and rehabilitative therapies, pharmacological, injection, or surgical. Primary outcome was ICERs, converted to 2023 US dollars for comparability across studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Consensus on Health Economic Criteria checklist for trials and the Drummond checklist for modelling studies. Studies were deemed cost-effective based on established country-specific thresholds per quality-adjusted life-year.

RESULTS

There were 110 studies that included 33 lifestyle and rehabilitative therapies, 25 pharmacological, 11 injection and 42 surgical studies. Most studies (95%) were conducted in high-income countries. Time horizons varied from 8 weeks to a lifetime. Risk of bias domains were frequently scored poorly related to cost methods. Overall, the cost-effectiveness of lifestyle and rehabilitative therapies and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was mixed. Hyaluronic acid injection was cost-effective in knee OA compared to placebo, usual care and paracetamol but not to corticosteroid injections and NSAIDs. Total hip or knee replacement was cost-effective compared to usual care or no surgery, with early access to replacement cost-effective compared to delaying surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a diversity of analytical perspectives and clinical heterogeneity of interventions. Policymakers should consider their local context when deciding clinical care and resource allocation.

Treatment of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis in the Oldest Old

Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are key diseases of musculoskeletal ageing and are increasing in prevalence and burden with the progressively ageing population worldwide. These conditions are thus particularly common in 'the oldest old', and there are complexities of managing them within the context of extensive multimorbidity, physical and mental disability, and polypharmacy, the rates for all of which are high in this population. In this narrative review, we explore the epidemiology of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis in the oldest old before examining trials and real-world data relating to the pharmacological treatment of these diseases in older adults, including anti-resorptives and bone-forming agents in osteoporosis and symptomatic slow-acting drugs for osteoarthritis, paracetamol, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in osteoarthritis, recognising that the oldest old are usually excluded from clinical trials. We then review the potential benefits of nutritional interventions and exercise therapy before highlighting the health economic benefits of interventions for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The high prevalence of risk factors for both disease and adverse events associated with treatment in the oldest old mean that careful attention must be paid to the potential benefits of intervention (including fracture risk reduction and improvements in osteoarthritis pain and function) versus the potential harms and adverse effects. Further direct evidence relating to such interventions is urgently needed from future research.

Intraarticular hip corticosteroid injections offer no meaningful benefit in delaying time to total hip arthroplasty in patients with hip osteoarthritis

INTRODUCTION

Symptomatic hip osteoarthritis (OA) causes significant morbidity and functional limitations. While corticosteroid injections (CSI) are commonly offered and administered for OA pain relief, it is unknown if they offer any clinically meaningful long-term benefit or reduce the overall need for surgical intervention.

METHODS

A cross-sectional retrospective cohort study was performed on primary hip osteoarthritis patients from a single academic tertiary-care center arthroplasty clinic from 2014 to 2019. Patients were divided into three groups. CSI + THA: hip CSI patients who underwent subsequent ipsilateral THA. CSI-noTHA: hip CSI who have not had ipsilateral THA to date. THA-noCSI: a control group of consecutive hip OA patients who underwent primary THA without prior CSI. Demographic variables, injection relief duration, and radiographic arthritis severity were recorded. Time from clinic presentation to injection and/or THA were compared.

RESULTS

357 patients met inclusion criteria and underwent guided, arthroplasty provider-ordered CSI. Mean duration of relief was 6.7 weeks (SD 8.7). 244 injection patients (67.2%) subsequently underwent THA (CSI + THA). 150 of 390 patients have not undergone THA at mean of 25.5 months follow-up. Mean time from clinic presentation to THA was 8.6 months longer after CSI (16.3, SD 17.8) months in CSI patients compared to 7.7 (SD 10.6) months for patients without CSI (p < 0.001). Of 117 patients in the CSI-noTHA group at mean 25 months follow-up, only 43 (12% of all injection patients) had not had THA because they found injections effective. The remaining 74 (63%) of CSI-noTHA patients have been deemed medically unfit for surgery or are currently scheduled for THA.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest the utilization of intra-articular CSI as conservative treatment in an arthroplasty clinic does not prolong time to THA for a clinically important duration. The use of CSI should be reserved for diagnostic purposes and/or short-term pain relief in poor surgical candidates.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Health State Utilities and Cost-Effectiveness Economic Evaluation for Treatment of a Symptomatic Accessory Navicular

BACKGROUND

Treatment strategies for a symptomatic accessory navicular include both operative and nonoperative approaches. The primary aim of this study is to define health utility values for 7 health states experienced by those with a symptomatic accessory navicular who undergo operative and/or nonoperative treatment. Secondarily, the study incorporates the health utility values with treatment costs, probabilities of various outcomes, and duration of health states into a cost-effectiveness model comparing the nonoperative treatment protocol at our institution vs surgical excision.

METHODS

Institutional review board approval was obtained to call parents of patients 10-20 years old at the time of interview who were evaluated for a symptomatic accessory navicular from February 1, 2016, to March 2, 2023, at a single institution by one of 4 pediatric orthopaedic surgeons. Participants were asked to rate 7 health states from 0 to 100, with 0 representing death (if 18 years or older) or the worst health imaginable (if under 18 years) and 100 representing perfect health. Using published values for the probabilities of various treatment outcomes, time spent in various health states, and Medicare costs from the perspective of the payor and society, a decision analysis was constructed.

RESULTS

Health utility values for 7 health states were obtained. Operative treatment was preferred to nonoperative treatment in the base case model. Surgery was more expensive ($16 825) than nonoperative treatment ($7486). Using a willingness-to-pay threshold of <$50 000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY), surgery was cost-effective compared to nonoperative treatment with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $20 303/QALY. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the only variable that indicated a preference for nonoperative treatment is a 71% likelihood of nonoperative treatment resolving the condition.

CONCLUSION

Unless a physician suspects at least a 71% chance of a symptomatic accessory navicular resolving without operative treatment, surgical excision is recommended from a cost-effectiveness perspective.

Hemiarthroplasty vs. internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fracture in mainland China: a cost-effectiveness analysis

Objective

Nondisplaced femoral neck fractures constitute a substantial portion of these injuries. The optimal treatment strategy between internal fixation (IF) and hemiarthroplasty (HA) remains debated, particularly concerning cost-effectiveness.

Methods

We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis using a Markov decision model to compare HA and IF in treating nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients in China. The analysis was performed from a payer perspective with a 5-year time horizon. Costs were measured in 2020 USD, and effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Sensitivity analyses, including one-way and probabilistic analyses, were conducted to assess the robustness of the results. The willingness-to-pay threshold for incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was set at $11,083/QALY following the Chinese gross domestic product in 2020.

Results

HA demonstrated higher cumulative QALYs (2.94) compared to IF (2.75) but at a higher total cost ($13,324 vs. $12,167), resulting in an ICER of $6,128.52/QALY. The one-way sensitivity analysis identified the costs of HA and IF as the most influential factors. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that HA was more effective in 69.3% of simulations, with an ICER below the willingness-to-pay threshold of $11,083 in 58.8% of simulations.

Conclusions

HA is a cost-effective alternative to IF for treating nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients in mainland China.

Optimizing Acetabular Positioning: A Comprehensive Review of Contemporary Strategies in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a widely practiced surgical intervention to alleviate pain and reinstate functionality in individuals afflicted with hip joint pathology. The positioning of the acetabulum assumes paramount significance in determining the efficacy of THA, exerting profound influences on biomechanical dynamics, stability, and the durability of outcomes over time. This comprehensive review meticulously evaluates contemporary methodologies for optimizing acetabular positioning in THA, encompassing advanced technologies such as computer-assisted navigation systems, patient-specific instrumentation, robotic-assisted surgical approaches, image-based planning techniques, and intraoperative fluoroscopy. Crucially, key discoveries underscore the pivotal role of precise acetabular alignment in mitigating complications such as dislocation, component wear, and impingement. Moreover, the implications for clinical practice accentuate the imperative of continuous education and training to ensure effective deployment of sophisticated methodologies. Recommendations for furthering research and enhancing practice development underscore the necessity of scrutinizing long-term prognoses, assessing cost-effectiveness, and embracing technological innovations perpetually refining THA outcomes. Collaborative endeavors among researchers, practitioners, and industry stakeholders emerge as indispensable drivers of advancement in this domain, fostering an environment conducive to elevating the standard of care for individuals undergoing THA.

Early morbidity and mortality after one-stage bilateral shoulder arthroplasty

PURPOSE

One-stage bilateral shoulder arthroplasty has the advantage of requiring a single hospital stay and a single anaesthesia. The topic has been little reported, unlike one stage bilateral hip and knee arthroplasty, which have demonstrated their interest. The aim of the present study was to determine peri- and early post-operative morbidity and mortality after this procedure. The study hypothesis was that peri- and early post-operative morbidity and mortality in one stage bilateral shoulder arthroplasty is low in selected patients and that satisfaction is high.

METHODS

A single-centre retrospective study assessed peri- and early post-operative morbidity and mortality in one stage bilateral shoulder arthroplasty. Twenty-one patients, aged < 80 years, with ASA score ≤ 3, were consecutively operated on between 1999 and 2020. Indications comprised primary osteoarthritis, aseptic osteonecrosis, inflammatory arthritis, massive rotator cuff tear, and dislocation fracture, involving both shoulders.

RESULTS

There were no early deaths. The complication rate was 10% (4/21 cases). No prosthesis dislocation or sepsis was reported. Mean blood loss was 145 ± 40 cc, mean surgery time 164 ± 63 min, and mean hospital stay five ± four days. Only one patient required postoperative transfusion. Functional results at six months showed significantly improved range of motion and good patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

One-stage bilateral shoulder arthroplasty was feasible in selected patients. Mortality was zero, and morbidity was low. Surgery time was reasonable and required no repositioning. Postoperative home help is indispensable for patient satisfaction during rehabilitation.

Long-term health-related quality of life of total hip arthroplasty patients and cost-effectiveness analysis in the Japanese universal health insurance system

AIM

Total hip arthroplasty can effectively improve patients' motility with end-stage osteoarthritis. This study aimed to: (1) compare gradual changes in utility values with total hip arthroplasty and estimated values without; (2) evaluate total hip arthroplasty cost-effectiveness; and (3) evaluate cost-effectiveness by age, diagnosis, and comorbidity.

METHODS

Patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty between January 2008 and December 2009 were included. Patients completed the EuroQol preoperatively and at 1, 3, 5 and 7 years postoperatively. To derive the quality-adjusted life years gained, a utility score was obtained from the EuroQol item scores and combined with 7 years, and estimates were obtained by discounting the postoperative 1-year utility value at an annual rate of 2%-4%. Mixed-effects regression models were used to compare the estimated and the measured utility values.

RESULTS

Mean total cost was 1,921,849 yen, and quality-adjusted life years gain score was 1.746 with per cost as 1,100,715 yen. Compared with actual measurements, the estimated values from 1 to 7 years post-surgery differed significantly, and interaction was observed. Regarding age, the older the patient, the higher the cost per quality-adjusted life years. Patients with lower preoperative physical function had higher quality-adjusted life years gains, while the cost per quality-adjusted life years was lower.

CONCLUSIONS

Total hip arthroplasty was cost-effective. Compared with actual measurements, the estimated utility values from 1 to 7 years post-surgery significantly differed. Even among older patients and those with impaired preoperative physical functions, its cost was lower than patients' willingness to pay in Japan.

Operative and Nonoperative Treatment of Humeral Shaft Fractures: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

BACKGROUND

Decision-making with regard to the treatment of humeral shaft fractures remains under debate. The cost-effectiveness of these treatment options has yet to be established. This study aims to compare the cost-effectiveness of operative treatment with that of nonoperative treatment of humeral shaft fractures.

METHODS

We developed a decision tree for treatment options. Surgical costs included the ambulatory surgical fee, physician fee, anesthesia fee, and, in the sensitivity analysis, lost wages during recovery. We used the Current Procedural Terminology codes from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery to determine physician fees via the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services database. The anesthesia fee was obtained from the national conversion factor and mean operative time for included procedures. We obtained data on mean wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and data on weeks missed from a similar study. We reported functional data via the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores obtained from existing literature. We used rollback analysis and Monte Carlo simulation to determine the cost-effectiveness of each treatment option, presented in dollars per meaningful change in DASH score, utilizing a $50,000 willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold.

RESULTS

The cost per meaningful change in DASH score for operative treatment was $18,857.97 at the 6-month follow-up and $25,756.36 at the 1-year follow-up, by Monte Carlo simulation. Wage loss-inclusive models revealed values that fall even farther below the WTP threshold, making operative management the more cost-effective treatment option compared with nonoperative treatment in both settings. With an upward variation of the nonoperative union rate to 84.17% in the wage-exclusive model and 89.43% in the wage-inclusive model, nonoperative treatment instead became more cost-effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Operative management was cost-effective at both 6 months and 1 year, compared with nonoperative treatment, in both models. Operative treatment was found to be even more cost-effective with loss of wages considered, suggesting that an earlier return to baseline function and, thus, return to work are important considerations in making operative treatment the more cost-effective option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Economic and Decision Analysis Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Quantifying the primary and secondary effects of antimicrobial resistance on surgery patients: Methods and data sources for empirical estimation in England

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) may negatively impact surgery patients through reducing the efficacy of treatment of surgical site infections, also known as the "primary effects" of AMR. Previous estimates of the burden of AMR have largely ignored the potential "secondary effects," such as changes in surgical care pathways due to AMR, such as different infection prevention procedures or reduced access to surgical procedures altogether, with literature providing limited quantifications of this potential burden. Former conceptual models and approaches for quantifying such impacts are available, though they are often high-level and difficult to utilize in practice. We therefore expand on this earlier work to incorporate heterogeneity in antimicrobial usage, AMR, and causative organisms, providing a detailed decision-tree-Markov-hybrid conceptual model to estimate the burden of AMR on surgery patients. We collate available data sources in England and describe how routinely collected data could be used to parameterise such a model, providing a useful repository of data systems for future health economic evaluations. The wealth of national-level data available for England provides a case study in describing how current surveillance and administrative data capture systems could be used in the estimation of transition probability and cost parameters. However, it is recommended that such data are utilized in combination with expert opinion (for scope and scenario definitions) to robustly estimate both the primary and secondary effects of AMR over time. Though we focus on England, this discussion is useful in other settings with established and/or developing infectious diseases surveillance systems that feed into AMR National Action Plans.

Quantifying the primary and secondary effects of antimicrobial resistance on surgery patients: Methods and data sources for empirical estimation in England

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) may negatively impact surgery patients through reducing the efficacy of treatment of surgical site infections, also known as the “primary effects” of AMR. Previous estimates of the burden of AMR have largely ignored the potential “secondary effects,” such as changes in surgical care pathways due to AMR, such as different infection prevention procedures or reduced access to surgical procedures altogether, with literature providing limited quantifications of this potential burden. Former conceptual models and approaches for quantifying such impacts are available, though they are often high-level and difficult to utilize in practice. We therefore expand on this earlier work to incorporate heterogeneity in antimicrobial usage, AMR, and causative organisms, providing a detailed decision-tree-Markov-hybrid conceptual model to estimate the burden of AMR on surgery patients. We collate available data sources in England and describe how routinely collected data could be used to parameterise such a model, providing a useful repository of data systems for future health economic evaluations. The wealth of national-level data available for England provides a case study in describing how current surveillance and administrative data capture systems could be used in the estimation of transition probability and cost parameters. However, it is recommended that such data are utilized in combination with expert opinion (for scope and scenario definitions) to robustly estimate both the primary and secondary effects of AMR over time. Though we focus on England, this discussion is useful in other settings with established and/or developing infectious diseases surveillance systems that feed into AMR National Action Plans.

Does Implant Selection Affect Patient-Reported Outcome Measures After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a reliable operation, but it is critical that orthopaedic surgeons characterize which surgical factors influence patient-reported outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine whether implant selection at the time of THA affects the odds of having (1) inadequate improvement according to patient-reported pain, function, and activity; (2) failure to achieve a substantial clinical benefit (SCB) with respect to pain; or (3) failure to achieve a patient-acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) according to pain and function.

METHODS

Prospective data were collected from 4,716 patients who underwent primary THA (from July 2015 to August 2018) in a single health-care system with standardized care pathways. Patients were categorized according to the type of femoral and acetabular components and bearing surface used. Outcomes included 1-year postoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and improvement in the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) activity score. Inadequate improvement was defined as PROMs that changed by less than the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the HOOS pain and physical function short form (PS) and as failure to improve beyond a mostly homebound activity status for the UCLA activity score (a score of ≤3). The MCID and SCB thresholds were set at values reported in the literature.

RESULTS

One-year PROM data were available for 3,519 patients (74.6%). There were no differences in the proportion of patients who attained the MCID in terms of HOOS pain, HOOS PS, or UCLA activity scores at 1 year for all analyzed implant parameters. Multivariate regression demonstrated that implant selection was not a significant driver of inadequate improvement, according to HOOS pain and HOOS PS (p > 0.05). Larger (36-mm) femoral heads demonstrated lower odds of inadequate improvement versus 28-mm femoral heads according to UCLA activity scores (odds ratio [OR]: 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.47 to 0.86; p = 0.003). Implant-related criteria were not significant drivers of attaining a PASS or achieving an SCB with respect to HOOS pain.

CONCLUSIONS

For the most part, THA implant characteristics are not drivers of inadequate improvement with respect to pain and function. Surgeons should utilize implants with an acceptable track record that allow stable fixation and restoration of hip biomechanics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Reduction of Periprosthetic Proximal Femur Fracture in Direct Anterior Total Hip According to Stem Design

The direct anterior approach (DAA) is gaining popularity in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Although DAA has demonstrated many advantages over other surgical approaches, periprosthetic femur fractures (PPFF) rates continue to be higher. Femoral stem designs that allow for easier insertion via a DAA may contribute to the higher rates of fracture seen in this approach. Certain stem designs and fixation methods may reduce the risk of PPFF via a DAA in primary THA.

Cost-effectiveness analyses comparing cemented, cementless, hybrid and reverse hybrid fixation in total hip arthroplasty: a systematic overview and critical appraisal of the current evidence

Background: This study aims to present an overview and critical appraisal of all previous studies comparing costs and outcomes of the different modes of fixation in total hip arthroplasty (THA). A secondary aim is to provide conclusions regarding the most cost-effective mode of implant fixation per gender and age-specific population in THA, based on high quality studies.Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs) comparing different modes of implant fixation in THA. Analysis of results was done with solely CEAs that had a high methodological quality.Results: A total of 12 relevant studies were identified and presented, of which 5 were considered to have the methodological rigor for inclusion in the analysis of results. These studies found that either cemented or hybrid fixation was the most cost-effective implant fixation mode for most age- and gender-specific subgroups.Conclusion: Currently available well performed CEAs generally support the use of cemented and hybrid fixation for all age-groups relevant for THA and both genders. However, these findings were mainly based on a single database and depended on assumptions made in the studies' methodology. Issues discussed in this paper have to be considered and future work is needed.

Cost effectiveness analyses of total hip arthroplasty for hip osteoarthritis: A PRISMA systematic review

BACKGROUND

Healthcare services are facing economic constraints globally with an increasingly elderly population, and greater burdens of osteoarthritis. Because of the chronic nature of osteoarthritis and the costs associated with surgery, arthroplasty is seen as potentially cost saving. There have been no systematic reviews conducted on cost effectiveness analysis (CEA) studies of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the management of osteoarthritis. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate CEAs conducted on THA for osteoarthritis to determine if THA is a cost-effective intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using five databases to identify all clinical CEAs of THA for osteoarthritis conducted after 1 January 1997. Twenty-eight studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. The Quality of Health Economic Analysis (QHES) checklist was employed to assess the quality of the studies.

RESULTS

The average QHES score was 86 indicating high quality studies. All studies reviewed concluded that THA was a cost-effective intervention. In younger patients, cementless THA and ceramic on polyethylene implants were found to be most cost effective. Hybrid THA and metal on polyethylene implants had the greatest cost utility in older patients. In patients with acetabular defects, cemented cup with impaction bone grafting was most cost effective, while dual mobility THA was most cost effective in patients with high risk of dislocation.

CONCLUSION

We have shown that THA is a cost-effective treatment for hip osteoarthritis. These findings should be implemented into clinical practice to improve cost utility in health services across the world.

How Are We Measuring Cost-Effectiveness in Total Joint Arthroplasty Studies? Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

As volumes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) continue to rise, it is important to understand their economic impact. No systematic review on cost-effectiveness of THA/TKA has been performed since 2016 despite recent changes in the healthcare environment. The purpose of the study is to provide a contemporary analysis of the cost-effectiveness of total joint arthroplasty and the use of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

METHODS

A systematic review was performed from 2005 to 2020. Online databases (OVID Medline, PubMed, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry, Google Scholar, Elton B. Stephens Co) were queried to identify economic analyses that evaluated the cost-effectiveness of THA/TKA.

RESULTS

In total, 38 studies met the screening criteria. Study designs were primarily Markov models (68%), cohort studies (16%), and randomized trials (8%). Most studies adopted either a societal perspective (45%) or a health system perspective (39%). Analysis revealed that THA/TKA was strongly cost-effective compared to nonsurgical treatment. THA/TKA procedures that were not delayed were more cost-effective than delayed intervention. The majority of studies used QALYs as the primary quality metric (82%); in all these studies there was a significant improvement in QALYs gained.

CONCLUSION

Given the high economic impact of arthroplasty, ongoing assessment of cost-effectiveness is needed. Twenty-four percent of studies included in this systematic review were published in the last 4 years of this 15-year study period, highlighting the need for continuous assessment of aggregate data. Future studies should incorporate the cost-effectiveness of THA and TKA with respect to the work-value provided by surgeon providers to support health policy and reimbursement.

Systematic Review of the Evolution of Health-Economic Evaluation Models of Osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To comprehensively synthesize the evolution of health-economic evaluation models (HEEMs) of all osteoarthritis (OA) interventions, including preventions, core treatments, adjunct nonpharmacologic interventions, pharmacologic interventions, and surgical treatments.

METHODS

The literature was searched within health-economic/biomedical databases. Data extracted included OA type, population characteristics, model setting/type/events, study perspective, and comparators; the reporting quality of the studies was also assessed. The review protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42018092937).

RESULTS

Eighty-eight studies were included. Pharmacologic and surgical interventions were the focus in 51% and 44% of studies, respectively. Twenty-four studies adopted a societal perspective (with increasing popularity after 2013), but most (63%) did not include indirect costs. Quality-adjusted life years was the most popular outcome measure since 2008. Markov models were used by 62% of studies, with increasing popularity since 2008. Until 2010, most studies used short-to-medium time horizons; subsequently, a lifetime horizon became popular. A total of 86% of studies reported discount rates (predominantly between 3% and 5%). Studies published after 2002 had a better coverage of OA-related adverse events (AEs). Reporting quality significantly improved after 2001.

CONCLUSION

OA HEEMs have evolved and improved substantially over time, with the focus shifting from short-to-medium-term pharmacologic decision-tree models to surgical-focused lifetime Markov models. Indirect costs of OA are frequently not considered, despite using a societal perspective. There was a lack of reporting sensitivity of model outcome to input parameters, including discount rate, OA definition, and population parameters. While the coverage of OA-related AEs has improved over time, it is still not comprehensive.

Screw Fixation Versus Hemiarthroplasty for Nondisplaced Femoral Neck Fractures in the Elderly: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of screw fixation versus hemiarthroplasty for nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in low-demand elderly patients.

METHODS

We constructed a Markov decision model using a low-demand, 80-year-old patient as the base case. Costs, health-state utilities, mortality rates, and transition probabilities were obtained from published literature. The simulation model was cycled until all patients were deceased to estimate lifetime costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio with a willingness-to-pay threshold set at $100,000 per QALY. We performed sensitivity analyses to assess our parameter assumptions.

RESULTS

For the base case, hemiarthroplasty was associated with greater quality of life (2.96 QALYs) compared with screw fixation (2.73 QALYs) with lower cost ($23,467 vs. $25,356). Cost per QALY for hemiarthroplasty was $7925 compared with $9303 in screw fixation. Hemiarthroplasty provided better outcomes at lower cost, indicating dominance over screw fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemiarthroplasty is a cost-effective option compared with screw fixation for the treatment of nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in the low-demand elderly. Medical comorbidities and other factors that impact perioperative mortality should also be considered in the treatment decision.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Patient outcomes after total hip arthroplasty in extreme elderly patients older than 80 years

BACKGROUND

While extreme elderly patients (age 80 and above) benefit from joint replacement, there is controversy about whether their physical function improves as much as younger individuals following total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

We completed a retrospective cohort study comparing extreme elderly total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients to younger patients. We obtained data from a large institutional repository of 2327 consecutive THAs performed from April 2011 through July 2016 at an American academic medical centre. We performed multivariate regression analyses to determine associations between age group and clinically significant improvement in the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-10 physical component summary (PCS) score. Secondary outcomes included the magnitude of PCS change, length of stay (LOS), and facility discharge.

RESULTS

There were 187 THAs (8.0%) in patients age ⩾ 80 years compared to 2140 THA procedures in patients < age 80. Extreme elderly patients had similar adjusted odds of achieving clinically significant PCS improvement after THA (p = 0.528) and there were no statistical differences in adjusted postoperative PCS score improvements between the cohorts. Extreme elderly patients were associated with a 0.68 day longer adjusted LOS (p < 0.001) and demonstrated higher adjusted odds of facility discharge following THA (OR 8.96, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to younger patients, extreme elderly individuals had similar adjusted postoperative functional outcomes following THA but utilised substantially more resources in the form of increased time in the hospital and higher rates of facility discharges.

Health State Utilities in Children and Adolescents With Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee

Background:

The impact of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions of the knee on a child’s health-related quality of life has not previously been quantified. Preference-based health utility assessment allows patients to assign quality-of-life valuations (utilities) to different health states and conditions.

Purpose:

To determine (1) patient-reported utility scores for health states associated with pediatric OCD lesions of the knee and (2) whether these scores are associated with patient demographics or disease severity.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Children, adolescents, and young adults being treated for OCD of the knee were interviewed to assess utilities for each of the 6 health states commonly encountered in the treatment of OCD: (1) symptomatic lesion, (2) nonoperative rehabilitation, (3) postoperative rehabilitation, (4) intermediate treatment success, (5) early degenerative knee changes, and (6) successful treatment (asymptomatic). Patients were asked to assign health utilities to each state using a standardized feeling thermometer (scale, 0-100), which were converted to a health state utility (scale, 0-1 [1 = perfect health]). Utilities were reported with descriptive statistics, and comparative analyses were performed to test whether assignments were associated with patient age, sex, or whether the OCD lesion required surgical intervention.

Results:

A total of 100 participants treated or undergoing treatment for OCD were prospectively enrolled; 74% were male (n = 74). The median age at the time of survey was 15 years (interquartile range, 13-16.5 years). Utility scores were as follows: symptomatic OCD lesion, 0.15; nonoperative rehabilitation, 0.30; postoperative rehabilitation, 0.30; early degenerative changes, 0.58; intermediate treatment success, 0.65; and successful treatment, 1.0. Utility scores were not associated with age, sex, or whether the participant underwent surgical treatment for the OCD lesion.

Conclusion:

The current study quantified patient-reported utilities for 6 OCD lesion health states, which may be used for future health-related quality of life, decision analysis, and quality/safety/value studies. These utility scores were stable and not affected by patient age, sex, or treatment strategy.

Early morbidity and mortality after one-stage bilateral THA: Anterior versus posterior approach

BACKGROUND

Advantages of performing bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) in one stage include a single hospital stay, a single exposure to anaesthesia risks, and expedited rehabilitation. Controversy persists however, regarding safety, notably morbidity and mortality rates. Importantly, few studies have compared the anterior to the posterior approach for single-stage bilateral THA (1B-THA). The objective of this retrospective study in a uniform patient population was to compare the anterior and posterior approaches for 1B-THA in terms of: 1) early mortality rates, 2) early complications, 3) and 90-day re-admission rates, hospital stay lengths, and blood loss.

HYPOTHESIS

1B-THA in patients younger than 80 years who have an ASA score of 1 or 2 is associated with no early mortality and with low early morbidity rates regardless of whether the anterior or posterior approach is used.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A single-centre retrospective comparative design was used to assess 90-day mortality and morbidity rates in consecutive patients who underwent 1B-THA between 2004 and 2018. The groups managed with the anterior approach (AA) without traction table and posterior approach (PA) were compared. The ASA score was ≤2 and age ≤80 years in all patients. The groups were comparable for age, sex distribution, ASA score, pre-operative haemoglobin level, and reason for THA.

RESULTS

We included 55 patients managed via the AA and 82 managed via the PA. No patients died in either group. Early complications occurred in 3 patients in the AA group and 6 in the AP group (p=0.74). No differences were noted between the two groups for each type of complication. In the AA group, 3 patients experienced major complications (p=0.06) (2 cerebrovascular events and 1 peri-prosthetic fracture). In the PA group, 6 patients experienced minor complications (1 case each of dislocation, piriformis syndrome, sacral pressure sore, and deep vein thrombosis and 2 cases of ilio-psoas irritation; p=0.08). Operative time was 144minutes (range, 110-195minutes) in the AA group and 171minutes (range, 108-255minutes) in the PA group (p<0.001). Mean hospital stay length was 7.6 days (range, 3-13 days) overall, 6.7 days (range, 5-11 days) in the AA group, and 8.2 days (range, 3-13 days) in the PA group (p<0.001). The early re-admission rate was 2.9% overall, with no difference between the AA group (3.6% [2/55]) and the PA group (2.4% [2/82]) A post-operative blood transfusion was required by 34/137 (24.8%) patients overall, 15/55(27.3%) patients in the AA group and 19/82 (23.2%) patients in the PA group (p=0.58).

DISCUSSION

In selected patients (ASA score 1 or 2 and age ≤80 years), 1B-THA was not followed by any early deaths in the patients managed using the anterior or posterior approach. Total early morbidity rates were low. Neither the types of complications nor the early re-admission rates differed between the AA and PA groups. The shorter operative time in the AA group is ascribable to change in patient installation between the two arthroplasties when the PA is used.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, comparative study of consecutive patients.

Cost and Clinical Outcome of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgeries-Experience From a Nonprofit Community Hospital

Background

Recognition of the variables that drive the cost of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) surgeries will help physicians and hospitals to initiate cost-effective measures. The purpose of this study is to analyze the hospital costs and clinical outcome for AIS surgeries.

Methods

A total of 6417 individual hospital costs and charges for 42 consecutive AIS surgeries were reviewed. The patients' demographic, surgical, and radiographic data were recorded. The costs were categorized. The relationships between total costs, categorized costs, and the independent variables were analyzed. Perioperative and postoperative complications were reviewed. Back pain, leg pain, and Oswestry Disability Index scores were obtained.

Results

The patients' mean age was 15 years, and 37 patients were female. Their mean main curve measured 55°. A total of 39 patients had posterior-only procedures, and 3 patients had anterior/posterior procedures. The average number of levels fused was 8. The mean hospital charge was $126,284 (range, $76,171-$215,516). The mean hospital cost was $44,126 (range, $23,205-$74,302). The average hospital stay was 5 days, with an average cost per day of $8825. The largest contributors to the overall hospital cost were spinal implants (31%), and surgery department labor cost (23%). Other categoric cost contributors included medical/surgical bed (19%), central supply/operating room supplies (9%), intensive care unit (6%), bone graft (3%), and others. No complications or revision surgeries occurred in these patients. For patients who had back and/or leg pain preoperatively, their back pain visual analog scale scores improved 1.8 points (4.5 versus 2.7 points, P < .05) and their leg pain visual analog scale scores improved 1.5 points (2.1 versus 0.6 points, P < .05). Their Oswestry Disability Index scores improved 6.1 points (17.3 versus 11.2 points, P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The hospital cost for AIS surgeries is significant, with spinal implants and surgery department labor being the largest contributors. These are also areas for potential cost-effective measures.

A Comparative Study Between Uncemented and Hybrid Total Hip Arthroplasty in Octogenarians

BACKGROUND

The aim of this prospective cohort study is to evaluate the outcome of octogenarian patients undergoing uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) with a control group of similarly aged patients undergoing hybrid THA with a minimum 5-year follow-up.

METHODS

Clinical outcomes including intraoperative and postoperative complications, blood transfusion, revision rate, and mortality were recorded. Radiological analysis of preoperative and postoperative radiographs assessed bone quality, implant fixation, and any subsequent loosening.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-three patients (mean age 86.2 years) were enrolled in the study. Seventy-six patients underwent uncemented THA and 67 underwent hybrid THA. The uncemented cohort had a significantly lower intraoperative complication rate (P = .017) and also a lower transfusion rate (P = .002). Mean hospital stay (P = .27) was comparable between the 2 groups. Two patients underwent revision surgery in each cohort.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that uncemented THA is safe for the octogenarian patient and we recommend that age should not be a barrier to the choice of implant. However, intraoperative assessment of bone quality should guide surgeons to the optimum decision regarding uncemented and hybrid implants.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Improves the Quality-Adjusted Life Years in Patients Who Exceeded the Estimated Life Expectancy

BACKGROUND

Hip osteoarthritis is a leading cause of functional decline and disability in the elderly. Although patients older than 80 years could significantly benefit from an elective total hip arthroplasty (THA), they pose a significant challenge to both anesthesiologist and arthroplasty surgeon. The purpose of this study was to report the clinical outcomes, complication rate, mortality, and quality-adjusted life year (QALY) of THA in patients who already exceeded the average life expectancy.

METHODS

Patients treated with elective THA for debilitating hip osteoarthritis and already exceeded the average life expectancy in Switzerland (n = 100) were included. The complication rate, QALY, and 30-day, 1-year, and midterm mortality were assessed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The overall complication rate was 12%. The 30-day and 1-year mortality was 3% and 6%, respectively. The Harris hip score increased significantly from an average of 50 preoperative to 93 points postoperative. Most of the patients (98%) had an improvement in the Harris hip score that was above the threshold for minimally significant change, whereas 75% reported an increase that exceeded the moderate improvement threshold. The average QALY was 4 years.

CONCLUSION

THA might be a safe and cost-effective procedure for improving pain, function, and quality of life with low mortality in selected elderly patients who already exceeded the average life expectancy. Hence, the arthroplasty surgeons should not hesitate to operate relatively active, independent, and cognitively intact elderly patients having debilitating hip osteoarthritis based only on the patient's age. Nevertheless, careful patient selection, surgical indications, and aggressive perioperative optimization might be necessary to minimize the risk of preoperative complications.