Hospitalizations for total hip arthroplasty after renal transplantation in the United States

Biomarkers from subcutaneous engineered tissues predict acute rejection of organ allografts

Invasive graft biopsies assess the efficacy of immunosuppression through lagging indicators of transplant rejection. We report on a microporous scaffold implant as a minimally invasive immunological niche to assay rejection before graft injury. Adoptive transfer of T cells into Rag2-/- mice with mismatched allografts induced acute cellular allograft rejection (ACAR), with subsequent validation in wild-type animals. Following murine heart or skin transplantation, scaffold implants accumulate predominantly innate immune cells. The scaffold enables frequent biopsy, and gene expression analyses identified biomarkers of ACAR before clinical signs of graft injury. This gene signature distinguishes ACAR and immunodeficient respiratory infection before injury onset, indicating the specificity of the biomarkers to differentiate ACAR from other inflammatory insult. Overall, this implantable scaffold enables remote evaluation of the early risk of rejection, which could potentially be used to reduce the frequency of routine graft biopsy, reduce toxicities by personalizing immunosuppression, and prolong transplant life.

Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty in Solid Organ Transplant Patients: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study for Aseptic and Infected Revisions

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that solid organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) are at an increased risk of postoperative complications. The purpose of this study is to use a large, national database to investigate revision THA (rTHA) outcomes in SOT patients.

Methods

Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) from 2010-2018 was used, and ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes were used to identify all patients who underwent rTHA, including those with history of SOT. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to analyze rTHA outcomes in SOT patients comparted to matched controls. Separate analysis performed for patients undergoing rTHA for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) vs other causes.

Results

A total of 414,756 rTHA, with 1837 of those being performed in SOT patients, were identified. Of these, 65,961 and 276 were performed for PJI in non-SOT and SOT patients, respectively. For non-PJI patients, SOT patients had higher 90-day all-cause readmission rates (24.0% vs 19.4%, P = .03) but lower rate for readmission related to rTHA (6.0% vs 9.2%, P = .03), but no difference readmission for specific rTHA complications, mortality (0.6% vs 1.3%, P = .20), or revision rTHA. Of PJI patients, SOT patients had no difference in overall 90-day readmission (38.6 vs 31.3%, P = .280), readmission for specific rTHA complications, re-revision, or mortality (4.7% vs 6.0%, P = .63).

Conclusions

SOT patients undergoing rTHA for aseptic reasons are higher risk of overall readmission but lower risk of readmission related to rTHA than appropriately matched controls. SOT PJI patients undergoing had similar rates of readmission, mortality, and revision surgery compared to matched non-SOT PJI patients.

Comparing Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Renal Transplant Recipients to Patients on Dialysis for End-Stage Renal Disease: A Nationally Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

Renal transplants are the most commonly performed solid-organ transplants worldwide. It is unclear whether a kidney transplant is associated with reduced postoperative complications in comparison with patients on dialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The purpose of this study was to utilize a national database to compare readmissions, complications, and costs associated with primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) between matched renal transplant recipients (RTRs) and patients on dialysis for ESRD.

METHODS

Patients with a renal transplant (N = 1,401) and those on dialysis for ESRD (without a transplant) (N = 1,463) prior to being treated with a THA from 2010 to 2019 were identified within the PearlDiver database. RTRs and patients on renal dialysis were frequency-matched 1:1 on the basis of 9 patient characteristics, resulting in 582 patients in each group. Length of hospital stay, readmissions, complication rates up to 2 years, and total costs up to 1 year were compared between the groups using chi-square and multivariable logistic regression analyses to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Patients on renal dialysis had an increased mean length of stay (6.3 days) compared with RTRs (4.6 days, p < 0.01). After adjusting for age, tobacco use, and diabetes, patients on renal dialysis were more likely to be readmitted by 90 days (OR = 1.59; CI = 1.11 to 2.29, p < 0.01) and have mechanical complications (OR = 2.13; CI = 1.08 to 4.45, p = 0.03) and revisions (OR = 2.14; CI = 1.14 to 4.01, p = 0.01) by 2 years. Patients on renal dialysis were also more likely to have periprosthetic joint infections at 1 year (OR = 1.91; CI = 1.02 to 3.71, p = 0.04). Patients on dialysis incurred 14% higher costs at 1 year (p = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients on renal dialysis had more readmissions, complications, and costs after THA when compared with RTRs. Specifically, patients on renal dialysis were more likely to have longer index lengths of stay, more readmissions by 90 days, and more mechanical complications and revision surgery by 2 years. Patients on dialysis also incurred higher costs and had greater odds of PJI. These results suggest that joint surgeons may consider delaying THA in suitable patients until after renal transplantation to reduce postoperative complications and costs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Total Hip Replacements in Patients with Rare Pathologic Conditions Affecting Bone

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As a result of the advances in surgical technique and implant design, total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasingly offered for the management of osteoarthritis of the hip in patients with fragile or pathologic bone.

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Posttraumatic or congenital deformities associated with fragile or pathologic bone are frequently encountered and necessitate diligent preoperative planning.

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Surgeons should be prepared to evaluate and manage intraoperative iatrogenic fracture.

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While there is limited evidence to date, components made with computer-assisted design can be considered, given the unique and highly variable patient population.

Complications of total joint arthroplasty in solid organ transplant patients versus a large control group

BACKGROUND

Solid organ transplant patients are theoretically at increased risk for complications after total joint replacement due to immunosuppressive medication regimens and multiple medical co-morbidities. There are a number of studies that report on outcomes of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) following solid organ transplant, however, the results are heterogeneous. This study evaluated the outcomes of TJA in solid organ transplant patients as compared to non-organ transplant controls at one academic medical center.

METHODS

This study was a single institution retrospective review of a consecutive series of patients who underwent joint replacement following solid organ transplant as compared to a control cohort over a 10-year period. Univariable and multivariable generalized linear mixed effects models were used to compare the odds of readmission, infection, mortality, and being discharged home between transplanted (cases) and non-transplanted (control) patients.

RESULTS

Transplant and non-transplant cohorts had similar BMI, although transplant patients were younger (61 versus 65 years) and had a higher incidence of Diabetes (55% vs. 16%). On multivariable analysis, there was no difference in the odds of re-admission or rate of infection, but there was an increased risk of death and admission to a rehab facility in the transplant cohort.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this study demonstrates that solid organ transplant alone does not increase the risk of peri-operative complications in patients who underwent hip and knee replacement. However, it should be expected that these patients have a higher mortality rate and that many of them will need to be discharged to a post-acute care facility.

Mid-Term Outcomes of Primary Hip Replacement in Patients with End-Stage Chronic Renal Disease

Purpose — to evaluate mid-term outcomes of primary hip replacement in patients with end-stage chronic renal disease and to develop an algorithm for selection of surgical tactics and perioperative treatment.

Materials and Methods. The authors evaluated outcomes of primary hip replacement in 45 patients receiving renal substitution therapy and 47 patients without chronic renal disease. Patients with end-stage chronic renal disease (CRD) were divided into two groups: group I included 30 (66.6%) patients receiving chronic hemodialysis (CH) and group II included 15 (33.4%) patients after renal transplantation (RT). Group III of 47 (51.1%) patients without any signs of CRD who underwent hip arthroplasty within relevant period of time was established to evaluate the effectiveness of primary hip replacement. Blood serum Ca2+ and P5+ levels as well as levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 1.25-dihydroxyvitamin D were measured to determine the rate of calcium- phosphoric metabolism disturbance. Multi-spiral CT scans of hip joint were performed to identify bone mineral density and the mean Hounsfield (Hu) value was calculated for which the data was obtained from five various points on the proximal femur and acetabulum. Beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) blood test was performed to confirm amyloid bone disease.

Results. The authors did not observe statistically significant differences for arthroplasty outcomes in patients of group II and III. Patients receiving long-term hemodialysis demonstrated significantly lower parameters of Harris score and Barthel’s index of social adaptation after hip replacement as compared to groups II and III: patients of group I demonstrated outcomes improvement at 19.55%, in group II — at 13.03%, in group III — at 10.15% as compared to preoperative status. Decrease of 1.25-dihydroxyvitamin D below 20,0 mcg results in resorption of cancellous bone in proximal femur and acetabulum along with myopathy of gluteus muscles. Sharp increase of parathyroid hormone level (over 600 pcg/ml) was accompanied by inhibition of osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation resulting in substantial impairment of mineralization.

Conclusion. According to the algorithm suggested by the authors the key parameters that need to be evaluated in preoperative period are parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 1.25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Five-fold increase of PTH (>600 pcg/ml) demands parathyroidectomy as the first stage of treatment to decrease risk of early aseptic loosening of hip prosthesis and development of periprosthetic fracture.

PRIMARY HIP ARTHROPLASTY IN PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE (LITERATURE REVIEW)

The authors present a review of current national and international literature related to the specifics of primary hip joint arthroplasty in patients with end-stage of chronic kidney disease. epidemiology aspects of such pathology are covered in detail. Screening of the patients with hip joint pathology undergoing substitute renal therapy remains a significant issue. The authors present the outcomes of use of various implant types and their fixation in primary hip joint arthroplasty such as cemented, cementless and monopolar prostheses, as well as consider features and structure of complications following primary replacements in such patients. unfortunately, the national literature lacks sufficient number of publications on the present problem. In addition, the paper presents a promising area for development of specialized care to patients on hemodialysis with hip joint pathology.

[Safety and efficacy of total hip arthroplasty in patients with end stage renal disease]

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD).

Methods

Between December 2009 and May 2016, 30 THAs were performed in 28 patients with dialysis-dependent renal failure (18 patients) or renal transplantation (10 patients). A retrospective case control study was carried out to compare these 28 ESRD patients (ESRD group) with a matched cohort of 28 nonrenal patients (control group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, hip side, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification, comorbidities, and preoperative Harris score and hemoglobin (Hb) level between 2 groups ( P>0.05). The complications during hospitalization, Hb level changes, perioperative transfusion rate, hospital stay, and hospitalization costs in 2 groups were evaluated; and the creatinine changes of dialysis patients in ESRD group were evaluated. During the follow-up period, 90 days readmissions, periprosthetic infection, prosthesis loosening, hip Harris score, and deaths were recorded.

Results

There was no loss of follow-up. The mean postoperative follow-up of ESRD group was 3.4 years (range, 1.0-7.4 years) and control group was 3.5 years (range, 1.0-7.4 years). Differences in hospital stay and the drop of Hb was not significant between 2 groups ( P>0.05). The hospitalization costs and perioperative transfusion rate were significantly higher in ESRD group than in control group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in creatinine value of dialysis patients in ESRD group between pre- and post-operation ( t=1.804, P=0.089). At last follow-up, the Harris score was significantly higher than preoperative score in both groups ( P<0.05); however, there was no significant difference in Harris score between groups ( t=1.278, P=0.207). In ESRD group, 5 patients presented complications, 1 patient was readmitted to hospital, and 2 patients died during the follow-up. In control group, 1 patient presented complications, and there was no 90 days readmission and no death. During the follow-up period, there was no loosening or revision in 2 groups and the prosthesis was in good position.

Conclusion

THA can improve joint function and life quality of ESRD patients, but the risks of operation, perioperative complications, transfusion rate, and cost are high. Correct perioperative evaluation and management can help ESRD patients safely go through the perioperative period.

Postoperative Impact of Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease, Hemodialysis, and Renal Transplant After Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), hemodialysis (HD), and renal transplantation (RT) is increasing. This study assessed postoperative complications among diabetic patients with CKD, HD, or post-RT after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

Four cohorts were created using a nationwide database: DM&THA, DM&CKD&THA, DM&HD&THA, and DM&RT&THA. Cohorts were matched to a control group by age and gender. Thirty-day medical complications and 90-day and 2-year surgical complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

All 30-day complications were higher in each cohort. Ninety-day and 2-year surgical complications in the DM&HD&THA cohort were increased compared to the DM&RT&THA cohort. Remarkably, no increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection, periprosthetic fracture, or revision was noted post-THA in the DM&RT&THA cohort.

CONCLUSION

Diabetic patients with worsening kidney function are associated with increased post-THA complications. Postsurgical risks decline following RT. Diabetic patients with kidney failure may want to undergo RT prior to THA to optimize surgical outcomes.

Survivorship After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty in Solid-Organ Transplant Patients

BACKGROUND

Although a growing number of primary total hip arthroplasties (THAs) are being performed on solid-organ transplant (SOT) recipients, long-term patient and implant survivorships have not been well studied in contemporary transplant and arthroplasty practices.

METHODS

A total of 136 THAs (105 patients) with prior SOT were retrospectively reviewed from 2000 to 2013 at mean clinical follow-up of 5 years. The mean age was 59 years, with 39% being females. The most common SOT was renal (56%), followed by liver (24%).

RESULTS

Patient mortality was 3.8% and 13.3% at 2 and 5 years, respectively. There were 9 revisions (6.6%), including 5 (4%) for deep periprosthetic infection. Implant survivorship free of any revision was 95% and 94% at 2 and 5 years, respectively. Transplant type or surgical indication did not significantly impact patient or implant survivorship.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the general population, SOT patients undergoing THA have slightly higher mortality rates at 5 years. Implant survivorship free of revision was slightly lower than the general population, primarily due to an increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection.

Chronic Kidney Disease Linearly Predicts Outcomes After Elective Total Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Kidney disease is associated with increased complications in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The purpose of this study was to determine the association of kidney disease severity as measured by the chronic kidney disease (CKD) staging system with complications after TJA.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 12,308 primary TJAs (6361 hips and 5947 knees) from 2008 to 2013 was performed. The following preoperative variables were obtained from medical records: chemistry 7 panel, Elixhauser comorbidities, and demographic factors. CKD stages were defined based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in mL/min/1.73m(2): (1) 90+, (2) 60-89, (3A) 45-59, (3B) 30-44, (4) 15-29, and (5) <15. Multivariate analysis was performed to assess the independent influence of CKD stage on the aforementioned end points.

RESULTS

Patients with CKD stage greater than 2 demonstrated an increased odds of receiving transfusions (P = .001), length of stay >3 days (P = .010), acute kidney injury (P < .001), septic revisions (P = .002), and in-hospital complications (P < .001) compared with all patients with eGFR ≥60 when controlling for potential confounders. Only CKD stage 3A was significantly associated with septic revisions (90 days, P = .004; 2 years P = .002). In addition, the relationship between eGFR and the previously mentioned complications increased linearly rather than demonstrating a clear threshold at which the risk increased substantially.

CONCLUSION

Severe CKD is associated with increased transfusion, length of stay, and in-hospital complications; and complications increased linearly with disease severity. Surgeons should be cognizant of this increase when evaluating TJA patients with renal disease.

Is total hip arthroplasty safely performed in lung transplant patients? Current experience from a retrospective study of the Zurich lung transplant cohort

Background

In recent years, the number of lung transplants has increased rapidly, with higher quality of life and improved survival rates in transplant recipients, including patients with advanced age. This, in turn, means that more transplant recipients will seek musculoskeletal care to treat degenerative joint disease and also trauma incidents. Safety concerns regarding elective and posttraumatic hip arthroplasty in transplant patients include an increased risk of infection, wound healing problems, periprosthetic fractures and loosening of the implants.

Methods

Clinical outcomes and safety aspects were retrospectively reviewed for five primary total hip arthroplasties (THA) in lung transplant recipients with minimal follow-up of two years at average of 2.6 (2–11) years. Patients were recruited from the Zurich Lung Transplant Center comprising of a cohort of 253 patients between January 1st, 2004 and December 31st, 2013.

Results

All five patients subjectively reported excellent outcomes after THA with a final average Harris Hip Score of 97 (86–100). One 71-year-old patient died 26 months after THA unrelated to arthroplasty. One superficial wound healing disturbance was documented. No periprosthetic fractures, no dislocations, no periprosthetic infections, no further revision surgery, no implant loosening was observed.

Conclusions

In conclusion, THA can be safely and successfully performed even in lung transplant patients under long-term immunosuppressive therapy and polymedication, provided a multidisciplinary approach can be granted.

Long-Term Outcome after Rehabilitation of Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty in Renal Transplant Recipient - A Case Report

INTRODUCTION:

Total hip replacement is generally proposed for renal transplant patients with avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the study is to report the long-term outcome after rehabilitation of bilateral total hip arthroplasty in a patient with renal transplantation suffering from avascular osteonecrosis of the both femoral heads.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

The patient S.D, 49 years old at follow-up. Few months after renal transplantation, the patient had got avascular osteonecrosis of both femoral head. One year after transplantation the total hip arthroplasty for both hip joints were performed. Three years later repeat total hip arthroplasty surgery for left hip was performed. After any surgery intervention the patient was referred for inpatient rehabilitation. For clinical assessment the clinical findings and Harris Hip Score have been used. The rehabilitation program consisted of exercises, occupational therapy, and patient education.

RESULTS:

After any rehabilitation treatment the patient had improvement of clinical findings. At follow-up assessment outcome for both hip function was good - Harris Hip Score was 81 points.

CONCLUSION:

Rehabilitation is integral part of multidisciplinary treatment of renal transplant recipient after total hip arthroplasty. Regular exercise training of these patients is very important for improving of their long-term outcome.

Total joint arthroplasty in transplant recipients: in-hospital adverse outcomes

This study aims to determine in-hospital complications and mortality in transplant recipients following total joint arthroplasty. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was queried for patients with history of transplant and joint arthroplasty (primary or revision) from 1993 to 2011. Kidney transplant increased risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and wound infections (OR=2.03), systemic infection (OR=2.85), deep venous thrombosis (OR=2.07), acute renal failure (ARF) (OR=3.48), respiratory (OR=1.34), and cardiac (OR=1.21) complications. Liver transplant was associated with SSI/wound infections (OR=2.32), respiratory complications (OR=1.68), cardiac complications (OR=1.34), and ARF (OR=4.48). Other transplants grouped together were associated with wound complications (OR=2.13), respiratory complications (OR=2.06), and ARF (OR=4.42). Our study suggests these patients may be at increased risk of in-hospital complications, particularly ARF in renal and liver transplant patients.

Perioperative Implications of End-stage Renal Disease in Orthopaedic Surgery

End-stage renal disease is a prevalent condition that substantially impacts a patient's quality of life. As medical advancements improve function and rates of survival, the number of persons with end-stage renal disease will grow, with orthopaedic surgeons increasingly encountering patients with the disease in their practice. End-stage renal disease is a complex medical condition that is often associated with multiple medical comorbidities. Orthopaedic surgery in patients with this disease is associated with at least a twofold risk of complications and mortality compared with a population without end-stage renal disease. Patients are at an increased risk for cardiovascular, metabolic, hematologic, and infectious complications. Orthopaedic surgeons should be familiar with pertinent issues in the preoperative evaluation and the postoperative management of these patients and should understand the risks of surgery to better inform patients and family. Careful coordination with consulting specialists is necessary to minimize morbidity and improve outcome.

Impact of chronic kidney disease stage on lower-extremity arthroplasty

End-stage renal disease and dialysis is commonly associated with poor outcomes after joint replacement surgery. The goal of this study was to evaluate postoperative complications in patients with less advanced chronic kidney disease undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients who underwent THA or TKA between 2004 and 2011 with stage 1, 2, or 3 chronic kidney disease were retrospectively reviewed via an electronic medical record. The authors compared 377 patients who had stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease with 402 patients who had stage 3 chronic kidney disease. No significant differences in 90-day readmission or revision rates were found between the stage 1 to 2 and stage 3 patient groups. For patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease, the overall mortality rate was greater than that in patients with stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease. However, when adjusted for comorbid disease, no significant increases were seen in joint infection, readmission, or early revision between patients with stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease vs patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease. The overall incidence of infection was high (3.5%) but far less than reported for patients with end-stage renal disease, dialysis, and kidney transplant. In conclusion, patients with stage 1, 2, or 3 chronic kidney disease may have a higher than expected rate of prosthetic joint infection (3.5%) after total joint arthroplasty. Patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease are at higher risk for postoperative mortality compared with those with lesser stages of kidney disease.

Solid organ transplant patients experience high rates of infection and other complications after total knee arthroplasty

Survival after solid organ transplants in the United States is increasing, and there is a need to understand the complications in knee arthroplasty patients who underwent organ transplantation. A retrospective study was conducted from 1993-2008 on 19 patients (23 knee arthroplasties) with previous successful solid organ transplants. Eleven knee arthroplasties were performed after renal transplantation, and 12 after nonrenal solid organ transplant (seven liver, four heart, one lung). Complications occurred in 9/23 patients (39.1%) and infections occurred in 4/23 patients (17.3%). Of the infected knees, two had MRSA, one had MSSA, and one Escherichia coli. Noninfectious complications (5/24, 21.7%) include aseptic loosening, quadriceps rupture, femoral fracture, hemarthrosis, and arthrofibrosis. All patients with complications were on immunosuppressant medications at the time of arthroplasty. There was a significantly higher rate of infection in the renal group compared to the non-renal group (P = 0.022). There was also a higher overall complication rate in the renal group however this did not reach significance.

Cementless total hip arthroplasty in patients with osteonecrosis after kidney transplantation

This study was to determine the mid- to long-term survivorship of cementless metal-on-metal THA in 52 patients (74 hips) who underwent THA for osteonecrosis of the femoral head with a cementless THA. The mean follow-up was 10.2 years. The mean age at operation was 42.1 years (range, 25-62 years). The survivorship analysis with revision as the end point estimated a 96.6% chance of THA survival during 16.4 years. The average Harris hip score at last follow-up was 89.2 points (range, 74-100). Two patients (two hips) required revision surgery for extensive acetabular osteolysis at 9 years and acetabular liner dissociation at 2 years. The survival rates of cementless THA in these patients are encouraging. However, the possibility of metallic wear related complications are raising concern.

Comparison of clinical outcomes by different renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage renal disease secondary to lupus nephritis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Many studies have compared patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on renal replacement therapy (RRT) with non-lupus patients. However, few data are available on the long-term outcome of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) secondary to SLE who are managed by different types of RRTs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective multicenter study on 59 patients with ESRD who underwent maintenance RRT between 1990 and 2007 for SLE. Of these patients, 28 underwent hemodialysis (HD), 14 underwent peritoneal dialysis (PD), and 17 patients received kidney transplantation (KT). We analyzed the clinical outcomes in these patients to determine the best treatment modality.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 5 ± 3 years in the HD group, 5 ± 3 years in the PD group, and 10 ± 5 years in the KT group (p = 0.005). Disease flare-up was more common in the HD group than in the KT group (p = 0.012). Infection was more common in the PD and HD groups than in the KT group (HD vs. KT, p = 0.027; PD vs. KT, p = 0.033). Cardiovascular complications were more common in the HD group than in the other groups (p = 0.049). Orthopedic complications were more common in the PD group than in the other groups (p = 0.028). Bleeding was more common in the HD group than in the other groups (p = 0.026). Patient survival was greater in the KT group than in the HD group (p = 0.029). Technique survival was lower in the PD group than in the HD group (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with ESRD secondary to SLE, KT had better patient survival and lower complication rates than HD and lower complication rates than PD. The prognosis between the HD and PD groups was similar. We conclude that if KT is not a viable treatment option, any alternative treatment should take into account the patient's general condition and preference.

Total hip arthroplasty in hemodialysis and renal transplant patients

Osteoarticular complications are common in patients with chronic renal failure and they often require implantation of a hip arthroplasty (total or partial) due to osteoarthritis, femoral neck fracture or ischemic necrosis of multifactor aetiology. Between 1992 and 2005 we operated on eighteen patients (23 hips) with chronic renal failure who were receiving renal replacement therapy (ten haemodialysis and eight renal transplants), and in each case either a total or partial hip arthroplasty was implanted. This group comprised nine women and nine men, with a mean age of 56 years (range: 30-83). Five cases were bilateral. The clinical diagnoses were necrosis (fourteen cases), femoral neck fracture (five cases) and osteoarthritis (three cases). The main early complications were haemorrhage in seventeen cases (74%) and infection in six cases (33%) (two urinary infections and four of the surgical wound). The late complications involved eight cases (35%) of prosthetic loosening (five aseptic and three septic). The surgery-related mortality rate was 17% (three cases). Prosthetic hip surgery in patients receiving renal replacement therapy is associated with high morbidity and mortality, thus highlighting the importance of careful patient selection.

Total hip replacement in renal transplant patients

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head creates considerable morbidity in successful renal transplant recipients who are generally young and expect active lifestyles. Total hip replacement is considered the treatment of choice in these patients, but surgeons may be wary because of a supposed increase in the risk of infection and other complications. A review of the literature reveals that cemented hip arthroplasty provides good to excellent functional outcomes for renal transplant patients. Most authors have found that the risk of infection is not increased despite chronic immunosuppression, but the rates of general complications are and should be anticipated and treated. There is a high rate of early failure in these patients because of their young age and diffuse osteopenia as a result of secondary hyperparathyroidism related to the underlying renal disease and chronic steroid use. Recent studies have found that despite decreased bone stock in these patients, porous-coated prostheses are not contraindicated.

Diabetes as the cause of end-stage renal disease affects the pattern of post kidney transplant rehospitalizations

INTRODUCTION

Although there are reports that link diabetes-induced end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with several post renal transplantation complications and conditions, few studies have directly focused on this issue. This study compared the pattern of rehospitalizations after renal transplantation among diabetic versus nondiabetic ESRD patients, measuring causes, length of stay, outcomes and costs.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 366 randomly selected rehospitalization records of kidney transplant recipients between 1994 and 2006, including 69 who underwent renal transplantation due to diabetic nephropathy and 297, due to nondiabetic ESRD. We compared the two groups with respect to demographic and clinical variables: donor source, readmission pattern, rehospitalization cause, time interval between transplantation and hospitalization (T-H time), length of hospital stay (LOS), and intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospital charges, and inpatient outcomes of graft loss and mortality.

RESULTS

The diabetes group, compared with nondiabetic group, had a greater mean age (53 +/- SD vs. 39 +/- SD years), proportion of admissions due to infections (44.9% vs. 32%) or renal dysfunction (14.5% vs. 29.6%), mean hospital charges ($5056 vs. $3046), and hospital mortality (18% vs. 4.3%; P<.05). Diabetic patients were readmitted sooner after transplantation than nondiabetic patients (11 vs. 18 months; P<.05). There was no difference between the groups with regard to gender, donor source, LOS, ICU admission, and graft loss.

CONCLUSION

The etiology of ESRD should be considered for scheduling post renal transplantation follow-up. Renal transplant recipients with diabetes-induced ESRD need further attention in follow-up programs.

Prolonged rehospitalizations following renal transplantation: causes, risk factors, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Although some studies have described rehospitalization after transplantation, few have focused on risk factors and consequences of prolonged hospital stay. Our goal was to determine the causes, risk factors, and outcomes of prolonged rehospitalizations after renal transplantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, 574 randomly selected rehospitalization records of kidney transplant recipients were reviewed from 1994 to 2006. Admissions were divided into group 1, prolonged stay (length of stay >14 days, n=149), and group II, short stay (length of stay <or=14 days, n=425). Demographic data, cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), cause of readmission, ICU admission, time interval between transplantation and rehospitalization, costs, and in-patient mortality were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Mean (+/-SD) hospital stay was 10.6 +/- 9.8 days. Median hospital stay was 5 days for renal stones, 7 days for surgical complications, 8 days for malignancy, 9 days for infection, and 10 days for renal dysfunction. We found higher rates of ESRD due to diabetes in group I (28% vs. 15.4%; P=.006). Admissions due to infections (56.4% vs 42.4%; P=.003) or renal dysfunctions (55% vs 41.4%; P=.004) were the cause of higher proportions of total hospitalizations with prolonged stay. Prolonged stay also correlated with higher ICU admissions (8.8% vs 2.8%; P=.002) and mortality (6.7% vs 3.05%; P=.001). Mean total hospital cost for short versus prolonged hospitalizations were US$ 586 versus US$ 2750, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we found that prolonged hospital stays accounted for >62% of all hospital costs; however, they comprised only 26% of the patients. High-risk kidney transplant recipients for prolonged hospitalizations should be closely observed for infections and graft rejection.

[Total hip arthroplasty in patients with chronic renal failure transplant or dialysis]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is generally proposed for renal transplant patients with invalidating hip disease. For patients on chronic dialysis, the few published series report a higher rate of complications. These patients are considered more vulnerable. We report the results of a retrospective mid-term analysis of 28 renal failure patients (37 hips) with THA comparing renal transplant recipients with chronic dialysis patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

THA was performed on 37 hips in 28 patients with renal failure between January 1993 and 2004. Treatment for the renal disease was transplantation or chronic dialysis. Mean patient age at the time of the arthroplasty was 56 years. Nine patients had bilateral THA. At review, four patients had died and none were lost to follow-up. Mean time between transplantation and hip arthroplasty was 9.9 years. Among the fourteen dialysis patients (21 hips), five had had a renal transplant. Mean time from onset of dialysis to arthroplasty was 12.3 years. At mean postoperative follow-up of six years (range 24 months to 12 years), 24 patients were living. Thirty-five hips had no surgical history. Aseptic osteonecrosis was the dominant etiology (75% of operative indications in the graft group and 52% in the dialysis group). The preoperative Postel-Merle-d'Aubigné score was 7.6 in the dialysis group and 10.3 in the graft group. Most of the cups were not cemented (n=31, 84%), as were most of the stems (n=29, 78%). All survivors were reviewed. The PMA score was determined.

RESULTS

Early postoperative complications in the dialysis patients were: deep vein thrombosis (n=3), pulmonary embolism (n=4), operative site hematoma (n=2) and immediate septic complication with prompt revision and preservation of the implants (n=1). For the graft group, complications were: early dislocation (n=2), lung disease (n=3). Four patients, all in the dialysis group, died. At review, the mean PMA score was 14.2 in the dialysis patients and 15.7 in the graft patients. There were no radiological signs of loosening, nor of polyethylene wear, and no ectopic ossifications could be identified. There were no late infections.

DISCUSSION

In renal transplant recipients, total hip arthroplasty is a reliable treatment for hip disease, providing good mid-term results and a morbidity close to that observed in the general population. Conversely, dialysis patients have a greater perioperative morbidity. Use of non-cemented implants is not associated with a higher rate of loosening than with cemented implants. It can be recalled that this type of surgery must be performed within the framework of careful pluridisciplinary patient management.

Renal osteodystrophy

The incidence of chronic renal disease is increasing, and the pattern of renal osteodystrophy seems to be shifting from the classic hyperparathyroid presentation to one of low bone turnover. Patients with persistent disease also live longer than previously and are more physically active. Thus, patients may experience trauma as a direct result of increased physical activity in a setting of weakened pathologic bone. Patient quality of life is primarily limited by musculoskeletal problems, such as bone pain, muscle weakness, growth retardation, and skeletal deformity. Chronic renal disease also increases the risk of comorbidity, such as infection, bleeding, and anesthesia-related problems. Current treatment strategies include dietary changes, plate-and-screw fixation, and open reduction and internal fixation.

Total hip arthroplasty in patients with renal failure: a comparison between transplant and dialysis patients

This study analyzed the outcome of total hip arthroplasty (THA) from a single institution of patients with renal failure, including renal dialysis patients (9 patients, 9 hips) and renal transplant patients (28 patients, 36 hips). There were 12 revisions and a 61% complication rate in the transplant group. In the dialysis group, 1 patient was revised, and there was a 33% complication rate. Transplant patients were younger, more active, and lived longer, but had higher cumulative rates of revision and complications with longer follow-up. Dialysis patients, in contrast, had a short survival but a lower rate of complications and revisions. These data differ from previous reports of acceptable outcomes with low complication rates of THA in transplant patients. Efforts to minimize complications in these patients are justified.

Long-term survivorship analysis of cemented total hip replacement (THR) after avascular necrosis of the femoral head in renal transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

We studied the long-term survival and the rate of revision of 93 consecutive total hip replacements (THRs) performed for avascular necrosis of the femoral head after renal transplantation from 1971 to 1988. Seventy-four were primary procedures while 19 hips had undergone previous surgery procedures on the same hip in the form of other conservative options.

METHODS

The patients of mean age of 38 years were analysed by the Kaplan-Meier method with revision for any reason as the end-point. The follow-up period averaged 216 months (range 1-332).

RESULTS

Thirteen hips were revised while 26 patients (36 hips) died during the follow-up period. The cumulative survival of the implant was 98.8% at 10 years and 63.8% at 20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Cemented THR performed after renal transplantation is satisfactory and, at least for the first 10 post-operative years, the results are equivalent to those obtained in the general population with primary osteoarthritis.

Maintenance immunosuppression use and the associated risk of avascular necrosis after kidney transplantation in the United States

BACKGROUND

Avascular necrosis (AVN) after renal transplantation has been largely attributed to the use of corticosteroids. However, other risk factors such as microvascular thrombosis and hyperlipidemia have been well described and may be of increased importance in the era of early steroid cessation and avoidance. We hypothesized that maintenance immunosuppressive medications known to be associated with these risk factors for AVN would also be associated with a higher risk of AVN.

METHODS

By using the U.S. Renal Data System database, we studied 27,772 primary patients on Medicare who received a solitary kidney transplant between January 1, 1996, and July 31, 2000. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) for patient- and transplant-related factors (including allograft rejection) with Medicare claims for AVN. The intensity and duration of corticosteroid use could not be assessed.

RESULTS

Among patients who were prescribed sirolimus at discharge, 3.5% of patients who received the combination of sirolimus-cyclosporine A (CsA) demonstrated AVN, compared with 1.4% of patients who received the combination of sirolimus-tacrolimus (P=0.06 by chi). In Cox regression, CsA use (vs. tacrolimus) (AHR 1.36, 95% confidence interval, 1.09-1.71) was independently associated with an increased risk of AVN. Sirolimus use showed a trend toward significance (AHR 1.59, 95% confidence interval, 0.99-2.56), with no significant interaction with CsA.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other maintenance immunosuppression, AVN was significantly more common after use of CsA prescribed at the time of discharge for renal transplantation. Whether this increased risk of AVN was directly attributable to hyperlipidemia, microvascular thrombosis, or differences in corticosteroid dosing could not be determined.

Osseous complications of pediatric transplantation

Adult stature and peak bone mass are achieved through childhood growth and development. Multiple factors impair this process in children undergoing solid organ transplantation, including chronic illness, pretransplant osteodystrophy, use of medications with negative impact on bone, and post-transplant renal dysfunction. While growth delay and short stature remain common, the most severe forms of transplant-related bone disease, fracture and avascular necrosis, appear to have become less common in the pediatric age group. Osteopenia is very prevalent in adult transplant recipients and probably also in pediatrics, but its occurrence and sequelae are difficult to study in these groups due to methodological shortfalls of planar densitometry related to short stature and altered patterns of growth and development. Although the effect on lifetime peak bone mass is not clear, data from adult populations suggest an elevated long-term risk of bone disease in children receiving transplants. Optimal management of pretransplantation osteodystrophy, attention to post-transplant renal insufficiency among both renal and non-renal transplant patients, reduction of steroid dose in select patients, and supplementation with calcium plus vitamin D during expected periods of maximal bone loss may improve bone health. Careful research is required to determine the role of bisphosphonate therapy in pediatric transplantation.