Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture: a more complex episode of care than for cuff tear arthropathy

Clinical and functional outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture versus rotator cuff arthropathy: A retrospective analysis

Introduction

The utility of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has evolved to accommodate many complex shoulder pathologies including proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) and fracture sequelae. Within our aging population, PHFs are occurring at higher rates than ever before. Literature assessing differences in clinical and functional following RTSA for PHF and rotator cuff arthropathy (RCA) is limited. This study aims examine outcomes after RTSA for PHF and RCA at 2-years follow-up.

Methods

Records of who underwent RTSA for PHF and RCA at our institution between July 1, 2009 to October 1, 2019 with a 2-year minimum follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Patient demographic information, postoperative functional measurements, and complications were collected. A 5-year Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed.

Results

Overall, 23 patients underwent RTSA for fracture and 123 for RCA. Fracture patients showed significantly worse forward elevation (128.9° ± 38.8° vs 141.9° ± 21.1°; p-value = 0.0242). No differences were observed in range of motion or strength for external rotation and internal rotation, as well as patient-reported outcome measures. Fracture patients showed a complication rate of 9.1 % and an implant survival rate of 78.0 % after 5 years. RCA patients experienced a 7.4 % complication rate and a 91.5 % survival rate after 5 years.

Discussion

RTSA has been shown to restore shoulder functionality in patients with complex PHFs. In this study, RTSA for fracture resulted in similar functionality, complication rates, and implant longevity when compared to elective indications.

Outliers of total shoulder arthroplasty in the bundled payment era

BACKGROUND

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented the Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Advanced (BPCIA) Model that covers 90-day care episodes after select orthopedic procedures including anatomic or reverse ball-and-socket total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA/rTSA). This study investigated whether patients undergoing TSA/rTSA for nondegenerative processes incur higher costs than patients undergoing arthroplasty for degenerative processes.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients at a single academic medical center enrolled in the BPCIA model for TSA/rTSA from October 1, 2018, through December 31, 2022. We investigated whether patients undergoing arthroplasty for nondegenerative indications accrued more 90-day postoperative costs compared to patients undergoing arthroplasty for degenerative processes. A Break-even ratio was calculated to determine the number of degenerative TSA/rTSA that would need to be performed to account for the increased expenditures associated with nondegenerative TSA/rTSA.

RESULTS

One hundred patients met inclusion criteria during the study period. Costs for TSA/rTSA due to nondegenerative indications exceeded bundle payment amounts at a significantly higher rate compared to degenerative indications (43% vs. 18%, P = .021). TSA/rTSA for nondegenerative indications was also associated with significantly higher total costs ($27,100 vs. $22,200, P = .014), significantly more postoperative emergency department visits (43% vs. 18%, P = .035), and longer hospital length of stay (2.2 vs. 1.6 days, P = .121). Break-even ratio analysis demonstrated 1.22-1.54 TSA/rTSA for degenerative indications need to be performed to equal the total spending of one TSA/rTSA for nondegenerative indications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty for nondegenerative indications within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services BPCIA bundled payments program were at greater risk for incurring higher costs than allocated target payments, as well as significantly higher costs when compared to patients undergoing arthroplasty for degenerative processes. We may need to consider the roles bundled-payment programs have for these patients.

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for elective indications should have separate Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes

BACKGROUND

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) for fracture currently shares a single Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code with RSA for arthropathy despite potential differences in patient factors, procedural demands, postoperative care and needs, and overall hospital systems' resource utilization. We hypothesize that patients indicated for RSA for fracture will have greater medical complexity, require longer operative duration, have higher complication rates, demonstrate inferior functional outcomes, and require greater health care cost expenditures compared to a cohort undergoing RSA for rotator cuff arthropathy.

METHODS

A total of 383 RSAs were retrospectively reviewed from January 2011 to December 2020. Demographics, comorbidities, operative time, financial charge and cost data, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and all-cause revisions were assessed. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain score and active range of motion (AROM) were evaluated at 2, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

After exclusions, 197 total RSAs were included, with 28 for fracture and 169 for arthropathy indications. RSA operative time was longer for fractures with an average of 143.2 ± 33.7 minutes compared with 108.2 ± 33.9 minutes for arthropathy (P = .001). Average cost per patient for RSA for proximal humerus fracture was $2489 greater than the cost for RSA for elective indications; however, no statistically significant difference was noted between average costs (P = .126). LOS was longer for RSA for fracture compared to arthropathy, with a mean of 4.0 ± 3.6 days vs. 1.8 ± 2.3 days (P = .004). The fracture group was 3.6 times more likely to be discharged to a skilled nursing facility or inpatient rehabilitation (32% vs. 9%, P = .002). Early and late all-cause revisions were similar between groups. Differences in postoperative AROM for fracture vs. arthropathy were significant for active forward flexion at 2 months (95.5° ± 36.7° vs. 117.0° ± 32.3°, P = .020) and 6 months (110.9° ± 35.2° vs. 129.2° ± 28.3°, P = .020) as well as active adducted external rotation at 6 months (20.0° ± 20.9° vs. 33.1° ± 12.3°, P = .007) and at 12 months (23.3° ± 18.1° vs. 34.5° ± 13.8°, P = .012). No difference in VAS pain scores were noted between fracture and arthropathy groups at any time point.

DISCUSSION

RSA for fractures vs. arthropathy have substantial differences in patient characteristics, surgical complexity, and hospital resource utilization. This is of importance given the currently available CPT code does not differentiate indications for RSA, especially if intending to accurately document the surgical care delivered.

What are we matching on and why? A systematic review of matched study designs in shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Establishing patient-matched cohorts can be a valuable technique for minimizing selection bias in outcomes research pertaining to shoulder arthroplasty. This systematic review evaluated the variety and inconsistency with which matching techniques are employed in matched studies assessing outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane computerized databases were queried from their inception through December 2023 to identify clinical outcome studies of shoulder arthroplasty that employed a matched study design. Study quality was assessed via the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies criteria. Matching techniques, covariates included, and covariate justification were aggregated.

RESULTS

Among 110 studies encompassing 483,738 shoulder arthroplasties, 82 (74.6%) studies employed direct matching and 28 (25.5%) employed propensity score matching. Seventy-four distinct covariates were used in at least one study, with 86 unique combinations of covariates employed. Studies used a median of 4 covariates (range 1-27). The most common covariates were age (94.5%), sex (89.1%), body mass index (26.4%), smoking (19.1%), and follow-up duration (19.1%). Only 16 (14.6%) studies reported justification for the covariates included.

CONCLUSIONS

There are marked methodological discrepancies among studies using covariate matching methods in the shoulder arthroplasty literature. Future matched studies in shoulder arthroplasty should provide justification for included covariates and properly account for matching in their statistical analyses to enhance the validity of study findings. When patient matching is deemed appropriate, key variables to consider for matching may include patient age, sex, comorbidity burden and, when analyzing multiple clinical conditions, surgical indication.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty policy in Germany - an analysis of the health care reality from 2010 to 2022

BACKGROUND

The last few years have been characterized by increasing numbers of reverse shoulder arthroplasties. In addition to the classic indication of cuff tear arthropathy, the use for complex proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) and rotator cuff tear (RCT) in very old patients have been established. The objective of this study is to clarify and substantiate the above statements specifically for Germany (based on official data from 2010 to 2022). Since substantial changes in the structure of the population are expected over time, all data must be adjusted for these changes. The hypotheses are (1) the German population is ageing with a shift to more elderly patients over time, and (2) the general use of shoulder arthroplasty (total anatomic - shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) and reverse - rTSA) has increased during the time period, but the effect is beyond the shift of age stratification but attributable to a change of hospital admissions and surgical therapy for PHF and RCT.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, data were collected from the National Bureau of Statistics in Germany for the period of 2010 to 2022. Three different data sources were combined for the analysis: a database regarding the structure of the population in age groups for every year, a database reporting relevant operation codes, and the data on hospital admissions based on ICD-10 codes. The relevant data were extracted and combined using Excel spread sheets (Microsoft Corporation, version 2019). Absolute numbers are reported and adjusted for 100.000 inhabitants in each age group in order to calculate the incidence.

RESULTS

Only slight change in absolute numbers of the population (n = 81751602 to 84358845, +3%) was observed, but a substantial shift toward the group of elderly people: the peak age group has shifted from 40-50 to 55-65. The number of TSA has significantly increased (n = 15000 to n = 28117, +187%; incidence 18.35 to 28.53, +155%). The number of rTSA has largely increased (n = 5326 to n = 24067, +452%; incidence 6.51 to 28.53, +438%), whereas the number of aTSA steadily decreased (n = 9674 to n = 4050, -42%; incidence 11.83 to 4.80, -41%). The number of revision arthroplasties has increased 1.8-fold (n = 2179 to n = 3893; incidence 1.7-fold). The peak revision rate shifted from the age group 70-75 toward 90- 95; 76% of all revision cases were performed in patients 65 years and older in 2010 increasing to 87% in 2022. Hospital admissions for PHF have increased 7.8-fold (n = 110091 to n = 810907). The peak in the age groups has shifted by a decade from 70-74 to 80-84. The absolute number of surgical therapy for PHF has decreased (n = 12816 to n = 9562, 75%; incidence 72%). The number of hospital admissions for RCT increased by 2.6-fold (n = 47004 to n = 124096; incidence + 255%). The number of surgical interventions for RCT increased by 3.7% (n = 51350 to n = 53294; incidence 62.8 to 63.2). Combined numbers for the operative therapy of PHF, RCT, and rTSA show an increase of +124% (n = 69491 to n = 86715) with a peak shift on one decade toward the age group 60-94 with 79% of the patients in 2022. The increased use of rTSA, as expressed by incidence, is strongly correlated with the increasing proportion of people aged 65 and over.

CONCLUSION

The data show a substantial increase in the use of shoulder arthroplasty procedures in Germany in the observed time period, with the main driving factor being the increase of rTSA, whereas aTSA numbers decreased. The combined analysis of the hospital admissions and operative procedures performed to treat PHF and RCT indicated a shift of treatment numbers from open reduction and internal fixation and rotator cuff repair in the elderly toward the alternative use of rTSA in this age group. The observed shift of the stratification of age groups gives a further explanation for the increase in rTSA use: the number of patients in the age groups with the typical and alternative indications for rTSA substantially increased with a shift of the peak age group towards the elderly of one decade. Healthcare officials should be aware of these fundamental changes in the population, which create further demands on the health care system. The expected continuation of rising numbers of rTSA needs to be addressed by providing adequate resources such as reimbursement, surgical and rehabilitation facilities, and staff.

Reverse versus anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty: A large matched cohort analysis

Introduction

The annual utilization of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) and anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (ATSA) has grown exponentially, in part due to the expanded indications of RTSA. This evolution in shoulder arthroplasty prompts the need to evaluate outcomes between ATSA and RTSA. However, many other studies comparing outcomes between ATSA and RTSA lacked a large nationally-represented sample, a matched cohort analysis, or both. In this study, we compare outcomes between patients undergoing ATSA or RTSA in a large matched-cohort analysis.

Methods

Patients undergoing RTSA or ATSA from the National Inpatient Sample database between 2016 and 2019 were identified. Groups were propensity-matched based on demographics and comorbidities. We compared medical and surgical complications, length of stay, and total hospital charges. T-tests and chi-square tests were performed for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Odds ratios were calculated as a ratio between RTSA and ATSA groups.

Results

Following matching, there were 38,782 patients in the ATSA group and 35,461 patients in the RTSA group. The RTSA group had higher odds of acute renal failure (OR 1.35), blood loss anemia (OR 1.39), and pneumonia (OR 1.19). There were no differences for myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, mortality, periprosthetic fracture, or dislocation. The RTSA group had higher odds of periprosthetic mechanical complication (OR 1.92), but lower odds of periprosthetic joint infection (OR 0.65). The mean length of stay and total hospital charges were both higher in the RTSA group (p < 0.001).

Discussion

We found patients undergoing RTSA are at higher odds of inpatient medical complications, including acute renal failure and acute blood loss anemia. RTSA is associated with higher odds of short-term periprosthetic mechanical complications.

Identifying clinically meaningful subgroups following open reduction and internal fixation for proximal humerus fractures: a risk stratification analysis for mortality and 30-day complications using machine learning

Background

Identification of prognostic variables for poor outcomes following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of displaced proximal humerus fractures have been limited to singular, linear factors and subjective clinical intuition. Machine learning (ML) has the capability to objectively segregate patients based on various outcome metrics and reports the connectivity of variables resulting in the optimal outcome. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to (1) use unsupervised ML to stratify patients to high-risk and low-risk clusters based on postoperative events, (2) compare the ML clusters to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification for assessment of risk, and (3) determine the variables that were associated with high-risk patients after proximal humerus ORIF.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was retrospectively queried for patients undergoing ORIF for proximal humerus fractures between 2005 and 2018. Four unsupervised ML clustering algorithms were evaluated to partition subjects into "high-risk" and "low-risk" subgroups based on combinations of observed outcomes. Demographic, clinical, and treatment variables were compared between these groups using descriptive statistics. A supervised ML algorithm was generated to identify patients who were likely to be "high risk" and were compared to ASA classification. A game-theory-based explanation algorithm was used to illustrate predictors of "high-risk" status.

Results

Overall, 4670 patients were included, of which 202 were partitioned into the "high-risk" cluster, while the remaining (4468 patients) were partitioned into the "low-risk" cluster. Patients in the "high-risk" cluster demonstrated significantly increased rates of the following complications: 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission rates, 30-day reoperation rates, nonroutine discharge rates, length of stay, and rates of all surgical and medical complications assessed with the exception of urinary tract infection (P < .001). The best performing supervised machine learning algorithm for preoperatively identifying "high-risk" patients was the extreme-gradient boost (XGBoost), which achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 76.8%, while ASA classification had an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 61.7%. Shapley values identified the following predictors of "high-risk" status: greater body mass index, increasing age, ASA class 3, increased operative time, male gender, diabetes, and smoking history.

Conclusion

Unsupervised ML identified that "high-risk" patients have a higher risk of complications (8.9%) than "low-risk" groups (0.4%) with respect to 30-day complication rate. A supervised ML model selected greater body mass index, increasing age, ASA class 3, increased operative time, male gender, diabetes, and smoking history to effectively predict "high-risk" patients.

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fracture has comparable 10-year outcomes to elective indications: results from the New Zealand Joint Registry

HYPOTHESIS AND BACKGROUND

Recently, the indication of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has expanded beyond rotator cuff arthropathy to include treatment of complex acute proximal humeral fracture (PHF). Limited previous studies have compared the long-term clinical and functional outcomes of patients undergoing RTSA for PHF vs. elective indications for degenerative conditions. The purpose of this study was to compare implant survivorship, reasons for revision and functional outcomes in patients undergoing RTSA for acute PHF with those undergoing elective RTSA in a population-based cohort study.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data from the New Zealand Joint Registry from 1999 to 2021 and identified 6862 patients who underwent RTSA. Patients were categorized by preoperative indication, including PHF (10.8%), rotator cuff arthropathy (RCA) (44.5%), osteoarthritis (OA) (34.1%), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (5.5%), and old traumatic sequelae (5.1%). Revision-free implant survival and functional outcomes (Oxford Shoulder Scores [OSSs] at the 6-month, 5-year, and 10-year follow-ups) were adjusted by age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, and surgeon experience and compared.

RESULTS

Revision-free implant survival at 10 years for RTSA for PHF was 97.3%, compared with 96.1%, 93.7%, 92.8%, and 91.3% for OA, RCA, RA and traumatic sequelae, respectively. When compared with RTSA for PHF, the adjusted risk of revision was significantly higher for traumatic sequelae (hazard ratio = 2.3, P = .023) but not for other elective indications. The most common reason for revision in the PHF group was dislocation or instability (42.9%), which was similar to the OA (47.6%) and traumatic sequelae (33.3%) groups. At 6 months post-surgery, OSSs were significantly lower for the PHF group compared with the RCA, OA, and RA groups (31.1 vs. 35.6, 37.7, and 36.5, respectively, P < .001), and similar to traumatic sequelae (31.7, P = .431). At 5 years, OSSs were only significantly lower for PHF compared with OA (37.4 vs. 41.0, P < .001) and there was no difference between the PHF and other groups. At 10 years, there were no significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

RTSA for PHF demonstrated reliable long-term survivorship and functional outcomes compared with elective indications. Despite lower functional outcomes in the early postoperative period for the PHF group, implant survivorship was similar in patients undergoing RTSA for the primary indication of acute PHF compared with RCA, OA, and RA and superior compared to the primary indication of traumatic sequelae.

The relationship between preoperative opioid use and adverse events following total shoulder arthroplasty

Introduction

Few studies have analyzed the effect of preoperative opioid use on postoperative outcomes after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

Methods

Patients undergoing TSA were identified in the Pearldiver Humana Claims Dataset and stratified by level of preoperative opioid use. Primary outcomes were 90-day complications, readmissions, and revision surgery. Chi-square test and ANOVA were used to evaluate categorical and continuous variables respectively. A multivariable logistic regression analysis and a sub analysis excluding fracture as a primary diagnosis were completed.

Results

18,791 patients underwent aTSA and rTSA including 9933 opioid naïve patients, 3016 sporadic opioid users and 5842 persistent opioid users. Significant differences were found in complications (6.0% vs 6.1% vs 9.1%, p < .001), readmission (7.6% vs 8.2% vs 12.6%, p < .001), and revision procedures (1.1% vs 1.1% vs 2.3%, p < .001) which remained significant after excluding fractures. After adjusting for comorbidity burden, persistent opioid use was associated with increased likelihood of complications (OR 1.4, 1.2-1.6), readmission (OR 1.6, 1.5-1.8) and revision procedures (OR 1.9, 1.5-2.4). This association remained after excluding fractures.

Conclusion

Persistent preoperative opioid use is associated with increased risk of early postoperative complications, readmission, and revision surgery for patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty.

Primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for fractures requires more revisions than for degenerative conditions 1 year after surgery: an analysis from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register

BACKGROUND

Although reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is considered a viable treatment strategy for proximal humeral fractures, there is an ongoing discussion of how its revision rate compares with indications performed in the elective setting. First, this study evaluated whether RTSA for fractures conveyed a higher revision rate than RTSA for degenerative conditions (osteoarthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, rotator cuff tear, or rheumatoid arthritis). Second, this study assessed whether there was a difference in patient-reported outcomes between these 2 groups following primary replacement. Finally, the results of conventional stem designs were compared with those of fracture-specific designs within the fracture group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective comparative cohort study with registry data from the Netherlands, generated prospectively between 2014 and 2020. Patients (aged ≥ 18 years) were included if they underwent primary RTSA for a fracture (<4 weeks after trauma), osteoarthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, rotator cuff tear, or rheumatoid arthritis, with follow-up until first revision, death, or the end of the study period. The primary outcome was the revision rate. The secondary outcomes were the Oxford Shoulder Score, EuroQol 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) score, numerical rating scale score (pain at rest and during activity), recommendation score, and scores assessing change in daily functioning and change in pain.

RESULTS

This study included 8753 patients in the degenerative condition group (mean age, 74.3 ± 7.2 years) and 2104 patients in the fracture group (mean age, 74.3 ± 7.8 years). RTSA performed for fractures showed an early steep decline in survivorship: Adjusted for time, age, sex, and arthroplasty brand, the revision risk after 1 year was significantly higher in these patients than in those with degenerative conditions (hazard ratio [HR], 2.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.66-3.77). Over time, the HR steadily decreased, with an HR of 0.98 at year 6. Apart from the recommendation score (which was slightly better within the fracture group), there were no clinically relevant differences in the patient-reported outcome measures after 12 months. Patients who received conventional stems (n = 1137) did not have a higher likelihood of undergoing a revision procedure than those who received fracture-specific stems (n = 675) (HR, 1.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.91-3.17).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing primary RTSA for fractures have a substantially higher likelihood of undergoing revision within the first year following the procedure than patients with degenerative conditions preoperatively. Although RTSA is regarded as a reliable and safe treatment option for fractures, surgeons should inform patients accordingly and incorporate this information in decision making when opting for head replacement surgery. There were no differences in patient-reported outcomes between the 2 groups and no differences in revision rates between conventional and fracture-specific stem designs.

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humeral Fractures and Sequalae Compared to Non-Fracture Indications: A Matched Cohort Analysis of Outcome and Complications

Background: With the increase in utility and popularity of the reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) within the last decades, indications for RTSA have expanded. As well as the established indications such as cuff tear arthropathy and massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, RTSA for complex proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients has been proven to be a reliable treatment option. Methods: A prospectively enrolled RTSA database of 1457 RTSAs implanted between September 2005 and November 2020 was reviewed. Patients treated with RTSA for a complex proximal humerus fracture and fracture sequalae (F-RTSA) were 1:1 matched with a group of patients who were treated electively with RTSA for indications other than a fracture (E-RTSA). Matching criteria included sex, age, length of follow-up and body mass index. Evaluation after a minimum of 2 years follow-up included evaluation of the absolute and relative Constant–Murley score (aCS; rCS), subjective shoulder value (SSV), range of motion (ROM) assessment and complications. Results: Each of the matched cohorts comprised 134 patients with a mean follow-up of 58 ± 41 months for the fracture group and 58 ± 36 months for the elective group. The mean age for both groups was 69 ± 11 years in the F-RTSA and 70 ± 9 years for the E-RTSA group. There were no significant differences in clinical outcome measures including aCS, rCS and SSV (p > 0.05). There was a significant difference in mean active external rotation with 20° ± 18° in the F-RTSA group compared with 25° ± 19° in the E-RTSA group (p = 0.017). The complication rate was not significantly different, with 41 complications in 36 shoulders in the F-RTSA and 40 complications in 32 shoulders in the E-RTSA group (p = 0.73). The main complication for the F-RTSA group was dislocation of the greater tuberosity (6%), whereas acromial fractures (9%) were the leading complication in the E-RTSA group. There was also no significant difference in revision rate comparing F-RTSA with E-RTSA (10% vs. 14%; p = 0.25). Conclusions: RTSA for complex proximal humeral fractures and its sequalae leads to a comparable clinical outcome as that for patients treated electively with RTSA for indications other than fracture. There was, however, a significant difference in active external rotation, with inferior rotation in patients undergoing RTSA for fracture. This valuable information can help in requesting informed consent of patients with proximal humeral fractures.

Trends in operative duration of total shoulder arthroplasty from 2008 to 2018: a national database study

Background

As total shoulder arthroplasty has emerged as the fastest growing joint replacement performed, optimizing surgical efficiency and patient outcomes is essential. The goals of the current study were to identify trends and factors affecting the operative time of total shoulder arthroplasty over a 10-year period.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was analyzed to determine the operative time and 30-day complications of total shoulder arthroplasty from 2008 to 2018. Factors affecting total shoulder arthroplasty operative time were also assessed. Multivariable linear regression was used to analyze operative time over years studied while controlling for patient demographics and comorbidities.

Results

A total of 20,587 total shoulder arthroplasty cases from 2008 to 2018 were included. Mean operative time in 2008 was 139.0 min, while in 2018, mean operative time decreased to 105.6 min (P < .001). Male sex, outpatient surgery, increased body mass index, and low preoperative hematocrit were associated with longer operative times, while elevated international normalized ratio, resident involvement, and elective surgeries were associated with decreased operative duration.

Discussion

Operative time for total shoulder arthroplasty has decreased from 2008 to 2018. Patient factors and comorbidities are associated with operative time, and such factors are important to consider in operative planning to ensure appropriate patient and surgeon expectations.

Shoulder Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Proximal Humeral Fractures: Current Concepts

Complex proximal humeral fractures, especially in elderly patients, often require arthroplastic surgical treatment. Traditionally, shoulder hemiarthroplasty (HA) is the method of choice, resulting in long implant survival and a painless shoulder; however, shoulder HA has heterogeneous clinical outcomes related to the correct position of the implant, both in terms of height and version, and the anatomical consolidation of tuberosities. Today, reverse shoulder arthroplasties are increasingly used to treat such fractures. These techniques result in better functional outcomes compared to HAs, especially regarding anterior flexion, but implant longevity has not been established. The development of specific prosthetic humeral components for the treatment of fractures, which were recently introduced in the clinical practice, led to better clinical outcomes.

Comparison of 30-day complications between reverse shoulder arthroplasty and open reduction internal fixation for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures

PURPOSE

While the use of open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) has remained stable over the last decade, there has been a significant increase in the use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for proximal humerus fractures (PHFs). This study sought to compare the complication profiles of RTSA to ORIF in a large, validated, retrospective cohort.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical treatment for PHFs with RTSA or ORIF were identified in a national database (NSQIP) using CPT and ICD codes. Demographics and comorbidities were identified for each cohort of patients. Thirty-day complications were analyzed with univariate and multivariate analyses using Chi-square, Fischer's exact and analysis of variance testing.

RESULTS

The total number of patients included in this study was 2157.522 (24.2%) underwent RTSA and 1635 (75.8%) underwent ORIF. Patients undergoing RTSA were older with an average age of 73.52 years compared with 63.84 years in those undergoing ORIF (p < 0.001). Patients with RTSA were more likely to experience any complications (p < 0.001), pulmonary complications (p = 0.029), extended length of stay > 3 days (p < 0.001), and perioperative transfusion requirement (p < 0.001) after univariate analysis. After controlling for demographic differences, the only statistically significant complication was perioperative transfusion requirement (OR 1.383).

CONCLUSION

After controlling for demographic variables and comorbidities, RTSA placed patients at increased risk for perioperative blood transfusion. Patients undergoing RTSA should be counseled prior to surgery regarding the risk for transfusion and potentially optimized medically through multidisciplinary care if the surgeon elects to proceed with RTSA versus ORIF for the treatment of PHFs.

Outcomes of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasties Performed for Proximal Humeral Fractures Versus Elective Etiologies

BACKGROUND

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty is commonly performed for elective indications, such as cuff tear arthropathies, salvage arthropathies and tumours with excellent outcomes. However, its use in treating acute conditions such as 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures in the elderly has been more controversial. The aim of our study is to directly compare the short-term intra-operative and post-operative outcomes of RTSA for traumatic proximal humeral fractures as compared to elective shoulder arthroplasty.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 78 consecutive patients who had undergone RTSA from 2009 to 2018 at a tertiary hospital. These patients were classified by etiology as either elective or trauma cases. Comparative analysis of the baseline demographics, as well as post-operative surgical, functional and range-of-movement outcomes between the two groups was performed.

RESULTS

57 Patients made up the elective cohort and 14 patients made up the trauma cohort. The elective cohort was significantly older compared to the traumatic fracture cohort (73.2 vs 78.6, p = 0.026). No significant differences were observed when comparing post-operative surgical outcomes. At 6 months, the elective cohort demonstrated greater forward flexion (105.8° vs 127.2°, p = 0.041), as well as higher SF-36 PCS (27.85 vs 43.99, p = 0.018) and ASES scores (35.5 vs 76.31, p = 0.009). However, these differences resolved by 1-year post-op and no significant differences were noted comparing functional and range-of-movement outcomes at 1-year post-op.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that the application of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in the management of traumatic humeral fractures may produce similarly favourable 1-year outcomes to that performed for elective etiologies.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-022-00625-4.

A validated preoperative risk prediction tool for discharge to skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility following anatomic or reverse shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

As bundled payment models continue to spread, understanding the primary drivers of cost excess helps providers avoid penalties and ensure equal health care access. Recent work has shown discharge to rehabilitation and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) to be a primary cost driver in total joint arthroplasty, and an accurate preoperative risk calculator for shoulder arthroplasty would not only help counsel patients in clinic during shared decision-making conversations but also identify high-risk individuals who may benefit from preoperative optimization and discharge planning.

METHODS

Anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty cohorts from 2 geographically diverse, high-volume centers were reviewed, including 1773 cases from institution 1 (56% anatomic) and 3637 from institution 2 (50% anatomic). The predictive ability of a variety of candidate variables for discharge to SNF/rehabilitation was tested, including case type, sociodemographic factors, and the 30 Elixhauser comorbidities. Variables surviving parameter selection were incorporated into a multivariable logistic regression model built from institution 1's cohort, with accuracy then validated using institution 2's cohort.

RESULTS

A total of 485 (9%) shoulder arthroplasties overall were discharged to post-acute care (anatomic: 6%, reverse: 14%, P < .0001), and these patients had significantly higher rates of unplanned 90-day readmission (5% vs. 3%, P = .0492). Cases performed for preoperative fracture were more likely to require post-acute care (13% vs. 3%, P < .0001), whereas revision cases were not (10% vs. 10%, P = .8015). A multivariable logistic regression model derived from the institution 1 cohort demonstrated excellent preliminary accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]: 0.87), requiring only 11 preoperative variables (in order of importance): age, marital status, fracture, neurologic disease, paralysis, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, gender, electrolyte disorder, chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes, and coagulation deficiency. This model performed exceptionally well during external validation using the institution 2 cohort (AUC: 0.84), and to facilitate convenient use was incorporated into a freely available, online prediction tool. A model built using the combined cohort demonstrated even higher accuracy (AUC: 0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

This validated preoperative clinical decision tool reaches excellent predictive accuracy for discharge to SNF/rehabilitation following shoulder arthroplasty, providing a vital tool for both patient counseling and preoperative discharge planning. Further, model parameters should form the basis for reimbursement legislation adjusting for patient comorbidities, ensuring no disparities in access arise for at-risk populations.

Comparison of Early Range of Motion in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty Based on Indication: A Single Center Retrospective Review

Background

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is commonly used in the treatment of rotator cuff arthropathy. Indications for RSA have expanded to include complex proximal humerus fractures. Studies directly comparing outcomes between traumatic and traditional elective indications are limited. The purpose of this study was to compare early active range of motion (aROM) within the first two years postoperatively between traumatic and non-traumatic primary RSA, as well as compare ASES scores, and patient satisfaction at final follow-up.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of all RSA performed by a single surgeon between January 2000 and December 2018. Patients were grouped by indication into traumatic and non-traumatic elective groups. Demographics, surgical data, and routine aROM data were collected. aROM was compared at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and patient satisfaction were determined at the time of this investigation.

Results

367 RSA procedures were performed by the senior author during the study period, 88 for fracture (24%), and 279 for non-traumatic elective indications (76%). Forward elevation and external rotation were inferior in the fracture group at all time points in the first two years. Internal rotation was equivalent throughout the first two years. Final ASES scores were 77.6 versus 83.5 in the fracture and non-fracture groups, respectively (p = .33).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing RSA for fracture had statistically significant inferior aROM in forward elevation and external rotation throughout the first two years. Despite having inferior aROM, ASES scores and patient satisfaction at final follow-up were statistically equivalent.

Level of Evidence

Level III; Retrospective Cohort Comparision; Prognosis Study

Clinical outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for elective indications versus acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) has continued to increase in clinical utility and popularity as an effective treatment for cuff tear arthropathy (CTA), irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs), osteoarthritis, and acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures. Performing RTSA for acute proximal humeral fractures presents the unique challenges of tuberosity management, bone loss, and instability compared with elective indications such as CTA or irreparable RCTs. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes, active range of motion (ROM), radiographic outcomes, and complications between patients undergoing elective RTSA (RTSA-E) and those undergoing RTSA for fracture (RTSA-F).

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We queried 3 electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed) using the search term "reverse" AND "shoulder" AND "arthroplasty." Studies investigating the clinical outcomes of RTSA for traumatic and/or elective indications were included. Studies were excluded if they included RTSA performed for fracture sequelae, inflammatory arthritis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, or avascular necrosis. Data collected included patient demographic characteristics, subjective outcome measurements, ROM, and complications. The pooled means and proportions along with their 95% confidence intervals were generated by a random-effects model that incorporated the between-study variations in weighting.

RESULTS

A total of 134 studies (11,651 shoulders) investigating the clinical outcomes of RTSA-E patients and 66 studies (3117 shoulders) investigating RTSA-F patients were included in this systematic review. Analysis of patient-reported outcomes demonstrated that RTSA-F patients experienced significantly lower Constant scores than RTSA-E patients; however, relative Constant scores, Simple Shoulder Test scores, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores, and visual analog scale pain scores were similar. RTSA-F patients also had significantly lower forward elevation, abduction, and external rotation. RTSA-F patients experienced tuberosity complications at a significantly higher rate than RTSA-E patients (25.9% vs. 4.1%). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of other complications such as heterotopic ossification, radiographic loosening, revision, nerve injury, postoperative stiffness, infection, dislocation, and component loosening.

DISCUSSION

RTSA performed for acute 3- and 4-part proximal humeral fractures yields overall worse clinical outcomes and active ROM compared with RTSA performed for elective indications including CTA, massive irreparable RCTs, and osteoarthritis with deformity. Tuberosity healing may be a major contributing factor to the difference in clinical outcomes. In the setting of RTSA-F, patient and surgeon expectations may need to be tempered and appropriate measures undertaken to optimize tuberosity healing.

Implant Selection for Proximal Humerus Fractures

Proximal humerus fractures (PHF) are a common orthopedic injury; however, their treatment remains largely controversial with evidence supporting a wide array of treatments. Although many injuries can be treated nonoperatively, there has been much debate about surgical management of PHF. A detailed review of the literature was performed relative to operative management options specifically related to implant choices. Although no definitive answers are available regarding best practice, there is literature to guide operative decision-making and implant selection based on both patient- and surgeon-specific factors.

Real-World Evidence: A Review of Real-World Data Sources Used in Orthopaedic Research

SUMMARY

Real-world data (RWD) play an increasingly important role in orthopaedics as demonstrated by the rapidly growing number of publications using registry, administrative, and other databases. Each type of RWD source has its strengths and weaknesses, as does each specific database. Linkages between real-world data sets provide even greater utility and value for research than single data sources. The unique qualities of an RWD data source and all data linkages should be considered before use. Close attention to data quality and use of appropriate analysis methods can help alleviate concerns about validity of orthopaedic studies using RWD. This article describes the main types of RWD used in orthopaedics and provides brief descriptions and a sample listing of publications from selected, key data sources.

Efficacy of the modified Frailty Index and the modified Charlson Comorbidity Index in predicting complications in patients undergoing operative management of proximal humerus fracture

BACKGROUND

Comorbidity indices such as the 5-factor modified Frailty Index (mFI-5) and modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (mCCI) are widely used in outcomes research.

METHODS

A total of 3893 patients who underwent total shoulder arthroplasty (n=975), hemiarthroplasty (n=495), or open reduction and internal fixation (n=2423) for the treatment of proximal humerus fracture from 2005-2017 were identified from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Data regarding demographics, comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, and postoperative complications were collected, and the mFI-5 and mCCI were calculated for each case. Multivariate logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The patient population had a mean age of 68.0 ± 13.2 years, body mass index of 29.1 ± 8.1 and mean operative time of 119.9 ± 55.5 minutes. The most common complications within this cohort were extended length of stay (4 days or more) (1085/3893; 27.87%), transfusion (377/3893; 9.68%), unplanned reoperation (97/3893; 2.49%), urinary tract infection (43/3893; 1.10%), death (42/3893; 1.08%), and deep vein thrombosis (40/3893; 1.03%). After accounting for patient demographics, the mFI-5 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.105, P < .001) and mCCI (OR = 1.063, P < .001) were significantly associated with incidence of any adverse event. Both comorbidity indices had low positive predictive value and high negative predictive value for all adverse events.

CONCLUSION

The comorbidity indices mCCI and mFI-5 are both strongly associated with adverse events but have moderate ability to predict complications following surgical treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

Biological sex impacts perioperative complications after reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in complication rates between males and females undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures. We hypothesized that (1) females were more likely to undergo reverse shoulder arthroplasty for fracture, and (2) males were more likely to sustain a perioperative complication.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried to identify patients who underwent reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture between 2011 and 2018. Patients were stratified based on biological sex. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and 30-day perioperative complication rates were collected. Univariate analyses and multiple variable logistic regression modeling were performed.

Results

About 905 patients were included in the analysis—175 (19.3%) were male and 730 (80.7%) were female. Males were more likely to sustain perioperative complications (26.3% vs. 14.1%; P < .001)—pneumonia (2.9% vs. 0.5%; P = .016), unplanned intubation (2.3% vs. 0.4%; P = .029), and unplanned reoperation (9.1% vs. 1.1%; P < .001). On multivariate analysis, males were at a 2.4-fold increase risk of developing any complication (OR = 2.38 [95% CI 1.55-3.65]; P < .001) and a 10-fold increase risk of returning to the operating room for an unplanned reoperation (OR = 10.59 [95% CI 4.23-27.49]; P < .001) compared with females.

Conclusion

Females were more likely to undergo reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fracture, but males were at increased risk of sustaining short-term complications. This study provides useful information for clinicians to consider when counseling their patients during the perioperative period.

Does reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture portend poorer outcomes than for elective indications?

BACKGROUND

The number of reverse total shoulder arthroplasties (RTSAs) performed annually has increased, and the indications for RTSA have expanded beyond rotator cuff arthropathy to include treatment of complex proximal humeral fractures. No studies exist comparing clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes in patients receiving RTSA for the treatment of acute fracture vs. those undergoing the procedure for degenerative conditions. This study was designed to fill the void in this knowledge gap. We hypothesized that patients undergoing RTSA for fracture treatment would experience worse clinical outcomes than those undergoing elective RTSA.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database was queried for patients undergoing RTSA between 2007 and 2016. Patients were sorted based on the indication for RTSA: treatment of acute proximal humeral fracture vs. "elective" treatment of degenerative conditions of the shoulder. Baseline demographic characteristics, intraoperative and perioperative complications, and clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes were collected. Only patients with ≥2 years' follow-up were included. Final outcomes were compared between the fracture and elective groups.

RESULTS

In total, 1984 patients met the inclusion criteria, with 1876 in the elective group and 108 in the fracture group. Compared with the elective RTSA group, the group undergoing RTSA for fracture treatment was older, was female dominant, and was less likely to have undergone a previous operation on the ipsilateral shoulder. RTSA for fracture was associated with a longer hospital length of stay and greater intraoperative blood loss. The incidence of postoperative adverse events was 7.1% in the elective group vs. 4.6% in the fracture group. Functional outcomes did not differ beyond 1 year or at mean final follow-up > 40 months.

CONCLUSION

Despite differences in patient demographic characteristics, the outcome and complication profiles are similar between patients undergoing RTSA for acute fracture and those indicated for the treatment of degenerative conditions of the shoulder.

Return to sport following reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the evidence in the literature to ascertain the rate and timing of return to sport following reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA).

METHODS

A systematic literature search based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, using the Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library Databases. Eligible for inclusion were clinical studies reporting on return to sport following RSA. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

RESULTS

Overall, 8 studies including 455 patients (464 shoulders) met our inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were female (77.7%), with an average age of 74.2 years. The overall rate of return to sport was 79.1%; with 66.7% of golfers, 74.3% of swimmers, 50.0%, of tennis players, 94.4% of joggers, and 69.7% of cyclists returning. In addition, 71.4% of patients returned to the same level of sporting activity. The average time to return to sport was 3.4 months with a mean follow-up of 34.0 months.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results from our systematic review show that the majority of patients are able to return to sport following RSA, with a large number returning to the same level of sport. However, results were modest in overhead athletes, with a concerning number unable to return to tennis post-RSA.

The impact of age on 30-day complications following shoulder instability surgery

HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to evaluate short-term outcomes including medical complications, overnight admission, and 30-day readmission with regard to patient age at the time of shoulder instability surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing surgery for glenohumeral instability were collected from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program between the years of 2005 and 2016. These patients were separated into cohorts of younger than 25 years, 25-34 years, and older than 34 years. Medical complications, hospital admission, and 30-day readmission were compared using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 5449 patients included, there were 2035 (37.0%) patients younger than 25 years, 1815 (33.0%) between 25 and 34 years, and 1649 (30.0%) 35 and older. Overall, 81.7% of patients underwent an arthroscopic Bankart repair, 12.6% of patients underwent an open Bankart repair, and 5.7% of patients underwent a Latarjet-Bristow procedure. The risk of 30-day readmission increased with age, ranging from 0.24% for <25 years old to 0.92% for 35 years and older (P = .040). Operative duration greater than 60 minutes (odds ratio [OR] 1.76; P = .001), duration greater than 90 minutes (OR 3.58; P < .001), and American Society of Anesthesiologists class III and IV (OR 1.80; P = .001) were associated with increased risk of overnight hospital stay. Compared with arthroscopic Bankart repair, the Latarjet-Bristow procedure was associated with increased total complications (OR 3.30; P = .021), overnight hospital stay (OR 4.64; P < .001), and 30-day readmission (OR 3.39; P = .013).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that even in the relatively young and healthy shoulder instability patient cohort, patients older than 25 years are almost 4 times more likely to experience a complication. Additionally, Latarjet-Bristow procedures are 3-4 times more likely to experience a complication or readmission than other shoulder instability procedures.