The spectrum of fractures in the elderly

Development of Fear of Falling after proximal femoral fracture

Background: Proximal femoral fracture is common in older people. Beyond a long recovery process and significant permanent functional limitations, older people often experience subsequent Fear of Falling. The phenomenon of Fear of Falling is not fully understood; qualitative research is underrepresented but can provide insights into the experience of those affected. Objectives: We aimed to explore the experiences of Fear of Falling development and to what extent it affects peoples' life after proximal femoral fracture. Methods: We conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with nine older people, aged between 61 and 88, who participated in a prospective observational study. Interview data were analysed through inductive content analysis. Results: Six major themes emerged: The development of Fear of Falling; the effect of FoF and hope for recovery; alternating between moments of fear and security; fear of helplessness and of losing independence; strategies for dealing with Fear of Falling and maintaining independence; need of support by health care professionals. Conclusion: To identify and support older people in coping with Fear of Falling (after proximal femoral fracture), strategies for dealing with Fear of Falling across occupational groups and all healthcare settings should be implemented. Nurses have a key role in this process.

Epidemiology of distal radius fractures in Germany - incidence rates and trends based on inpatient and outpatient data

We examined incidence rates (IR) for all distal radius fracture (DRF) events based on inpatient and outpatient data from a large statutory health insurance in Germany. Of all DRF, 56% were treated as inpatients, and thus, 44% treated as outpatients. IR were higher in women than in men.

PURPOSE

Although a distal radius fracture (DRF) is one of the most common fractures in the elderly population, epidemiological data are limited. Many studies examine only hospitalized patients, do not analyze time trends, or include only small populations. In this retrospective population-based observational study, routine data on inpatient and outpatient care of persons aged ≥ 60 years insured by a large statutory health insurance in Germany were analyzed from 2014 to 2018.

METHODS

DRF were identified by ICD-10 codes. All DRF events of an individual were considered with a corresponding individual washout period. Incidence rates (IR) and time trends were estimated assuming a Poisson distribution per 100,000 person-years, with 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] and age-sex standardization to the German population in 2018. Associations of calendar year, age, sex, and comorbidity with IR were examined using Poisson regression estimating incidence rate ratios (IRR) with CI.

RESULTS

The study population consists of 974,332 insured individuals, with 16,557 experiencing one or more DRF events during the observation period. A total of 17,705 DRF events occurred, of which 9961 (56.3%) were hospitalized. Standardized IR were 439 [424-453] (inpatient: 240 [230-251], outpatient: 199 [189-209]) in 2014 and 438 [423-452] (inpatient: 238 [227-249], outpatient: 200 [190-210]) in 2018. Female sex, older age, and comorbidity were associated with higher IR and adjusted Poisson regression showed no significant time trend (IRR overall 0.994 [0.983-1.006]).

CONCLUSION

A relevant proportion of DRF were treated in outpatient settings, so both inpatient and outpatient data are necessary for a valid estimate.

Atraumatic Fractures in Multi-Morbid Older Adults: A Series of Five Cases and Review of Literature

Atraumatic fractures (ATFs) are a fragility fracture subtype with occasional medicolegal issues. ATFs are defined as fractures because of a "low-energy mechanism that is usually considered incapable of producing a fracture." They are an underreported disorder, with epidemiological variations. ATF phenomena were previously reported not only in older adults, but also in children, young adults, older adults, and animals. This study is a short retrospective case series exploring atraumatic fractures in a tertiary care university hospital. Over a period of two years, a total of seven ATF cases were identified. However, only five fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Local causes of pathologic fractures (e.g., metastasis) and elder abuse or neglect were excluded. Comparison of the cases' clinical profile, fracture profile, and management was done. All five cases were frail females with significant osteotoxic burdens from medications and multi-morbidities. ATF presentations included typical (as pain) and atypical (as painless, loud crack, and sudden giveaway) symptomatology. One ATF had a coincident unexplained aseptic fever. Three cases had more than one fracture (fracture cascade), confirmed and followed up by x-rays. All the cases were managed conservatively except for one case that underwent hip hemiarthroplasty. Plans of care included managing the osteotoxic multi-morbidities burden, focusing on the whole body, not only on the fracture or bone. The study provided insights about challenges in presentations of ATF (as the bone fracture acute phase reaction: osteogenic aseptic fever). Risk factors are classically assumed to be osteoporosis, but it is usually systemic and multifactorial. A high risk of fracture warning sign could help decrease ATF occurrence or fracture cascades. Four ATF categories were detected to help healthcare systems identify high-risk patients and raise awareness among medical staff, families, and caregivers. Future studies of the at-risk groups are needed to understand ATF knowledge gaps, challenges, and the best treatments.

Weight-bearing Guidelines for Common Geriatric Upper and Lower Extremity Fractures

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review paper is to summarize current weight-bearing guidelines for common geriatric fractures, around weight-bearing joints, of the upper and lower extremities.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increasing amount of literature investigating the safety and efficacy of early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, particularly of the lower extremity. Many recent studies, although limited, suggest that early weight-bearing may be safe for geriatric distal femur and ankle fractures. Given the limited data pertaining to early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, it is difficult to establish concrete weight-bearing guidelines in this population. However, in the literature available, early weight-bearing appears to be safe and effective across most injuries. The degree and time to weight-bearing vary significantly based on fracture type and treatment method. Future studies investigating postoperative weight-bearing protocols should focus on the growing geriatric population and identify methods to address specific barriers to early weight-bearing in these patients such as cognitive impairment, dependence on caregivers, and variations in post-acute disposition.

Digital monitoring of weight-bearing improves success rates and reduces complications in lower extremity surgeries

The aim of this study is to develop a digital monitoring system to track weight and evaluate its impact on postoperative outcomes after lower extremity surgeries (LES). This parallel randomized controlled trial enrolled 266 patients who underwent LES (fracture or joint replacement) at our medical center between March 11, 2022, and January 10, 2023. Patients were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group (n=116) used a cane and shoes equipped with a weight-bearing system after lower limb surgery, while the control group (n=116) used a simple cane and shoes without a weight-bearing system. The primary outcomes included callus formation, duration of union, and success rate of union in the two groups. The intervention group had a significantly higher rate of complete surgical success than the control group (93.9% vs. 79.3%, p=0.001). The intervention group also had a significantly lower risk of non-union than the control group (OR: 2.33, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.48, p=0.001). The mean duration of surgery until the time of union and the meantime of callus formation was significantly lower in the intervention group (p=0.01). The use of a digital monitoring system for weighing in LES significantly increased the success rate and reduced post-operative complications. Therefore, incorporating this system can enhance the rehabilitation process and prevent revision surgeries in patients with LES.

Surgical approaches to periprosthetic femoral fractures for plate fixation or revision arthroplasty

Periprosthetic femoral fractures are increasing in incidence, and typically occur in frail elderly patients. They are similar to pathological fractures in many ways. The aims of treatment are the same, including 'getting it right first time' with a single operation, which allows immediate unrestricted weightbearing, with a low risk of complications, and one that avoids the creation of stress risers locally that may predispose to further peri-implant fracture. The surgical approach to these fractures, the associated soft-tissue handling, and exposure of the fracture are key elements in minimizing the high rate of complications. This annotation describes the approaches to the femur that can be used to facilitate the surgical management of peri- and interprosthetic fractures of the femur at all levels using either modern methods of fixation or revision arthroplasty.

Femoral shaft fractures in eldery patients - An epidemiological risk analysis of incidence, mortality and complications

OBJECTIVES

This work aimed at answering the following research questions: (1) What is the incidence of femoral shaft fractures in the geriatric population in the U.S.? (2) What is the rate of mortality, mechanical complications, nonunion and infection, and what are the associated risk factors?

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

In this cross-sectional study, femoral shaft fractures occurred between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2019, were identified from Medicare records. Rates of mortality, nonunion, infection, and mechanical complications were calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method with Fine and Gray sub-distribution adaptation. Semiparametric Cox regression was applied with twenty-three covariates to determine risk factors.

RESULTS

Between 2009 through 2019 the incidence of femoral shaft fractures decreased by 12.07% to 40.8/100,000 inhabitants (p = 0.549). The 5-year mortality risk was 58.5%. Male sex, age over 75 years, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, tobacco dependence, and lower median household income were significant risk factors. The infection rate was 2.22% [95%CI: 1.90-2.58] and the union failure rate 2.52% [95%CI: 2.17-2.92] after 24 months.

CONCLUSION

An early assessment of individual patient risk factors may be beneficial in the care and treatment of patients with these fractures.

Resident and Fellow Participation Does Not Affect Short-Term Postoperative Complications After Distal Radius Fracture Fixation

Background  Complications after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for distal radius fractures (DRF) are well documented, but the impact of trainee involvement on postoperative outcomes has not been studied. Questions  Does trainee involvement affect postoperative complication rates and length of hospital stay? Methods  The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried from 2006 to 2012 for patients undergoing DRF ORIF. A 1:1 propensity score matched resident/fellow involved cases to attending-only cases. Demographics, length of stay, and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression was used to evaluate independent predictors of adverse events and to evaluate cases with and without trainee involvement. Results  Overall, 3,003 patients underwent DRF ORIF from 2006 to 2012. After matching, 1,150 cases (50% with resident/fellow involvement) were included. The overall rate of adverse events was 4.4% (46/1,050). There were no significant differences in the short-term complication rate in trainee-involved (2.3%) versus attending-only cases (3.9%) ( p  = 0.461). For ORIF of DRF, there were no significant differences, between attending-only cases and resident/fellow-involved cases, with regard to short-term major complications ( p  = 0.720) or minor complications ( p  = 0.374). Length of hospital stay was similar between cohorts (1.22 vs. 0.98 days) ( p  = 0.723). On multivariate analysis, trainee involvement was not an independent predictor of minor, major, or any complication after DRF fixation after controlling for multiple independent factors (all p  > 0.364). Discussion  Trainee participation in DRF ORIF is not associated with increased risk of short-term (30 days) medical or surgical postoperative complications. Level of Evidence  This is a Level IV case-control study.

Epidemiology and trends in management of acute proximal humeral fractures in adults: an observational study of 137,436 cases from the Danish National Patient Register, 1996-2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Proximal humeral fractures (PHF) can be managed surgically or non-surgically. Locking plates have been the preferred head-preserving surgical technique while hemiarthroplasty (HA) or reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) have been used in joint replacement surgery. We describe the epidemiology and trends in management of acute PHF in Denmark with a focus on (i) changes in the incidence of PHF; (ii) changes in the proportion of surgical cases; and (iii) changes in preferred surgical techniques.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data on diagnoses and interventions was retrieved from the Danish National Patient Register. Patients aged 18 years and above were included. Surgical treatment was defined as the diagnosis of PHF combined with a predefined surgical procedure code within 3 weeks of injury. Data on plate osteosynthesis, HA, RSA, and "other techniques" was retrieved. Non-surgical treatment was defined as no relevant surgical procedure code within 3 weeks.

RESULTS

We identified 137,436 PHF (72% women) in the Danish National Patient Register. The overall mean incidence was 138/100,000/year (500 for women 60 years or above). Non-surgical treatment accounted for 119,966 (87%). The 17,470 surgical procedures included 42% locking plates, 34% arthroplasties, and 25% other techniques. The rate of surgery declined from 17% in 2013 to 11% in 2018.

INTERPRETATION

The overall incidence of PHF remained stable between 1996 and 2018 but the absolute number increased. The approach to PHF remains predominantly non-surgical. The number of surgeries in Denmark have decreased since 2013, especially for locking plates and HA, while RSA is increasingly used.

Renal disease is a risk factor for complications and mortality after open reduction internal fixation of proximal humerus fractures

Background

Renal osteodystrophy predisposes renal disease patients to fracture. Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) frequently undergo open reduction internal fixation (ORIF); however, the effect of renal disease on outcomes is unknown.

Methods

A retrospective review of the Nationwide Readmissions Database used International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, codes to identify patients who underwent ORIF for closed PHF from 2010 to 2014 with no renal disease, predialysis chronic renal disease (CRD), and end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Results

A total of 85,433 patients were identified, including 5498 (6.4%) CRD and 636 (0.7%) ESRD. CRD and ESRD patients had increased age, comorbidities, and rates of Medicare insurance. After adjusting for differences, CRD and ESRD patients were at increased risk of any complication (odds ratio [OR] 2.48, 1.66), blood transfusion (OR 1.85, 3.31), respiratory complications (OR 1.14, 1.59), acute renal failure (OR 4.80, 1.67), systemic infection (OR 2.00, 3.14), surgical site infection (OR 1.52, 3.87), longer length of stay (7.1 and 12.9 days vs. 5.9 days), and higher cost ($21,669 and $35,413 vs. $20,394) during index hospitalization, as well as surgical site infection (OR 1.43, 3.03) and readmission (OR 1.61, 3.69) within 90 days of discharge, respectively, compared with no renal disease patients. During index hospitalization, CRD patients also had increased risk for periprosthetic fracture (OR 4.97) and cardiac complications (OR 1.47), whereas ESRD patients had increased risk of mortality (OR 5.79), wound complication (2.67), and deep vein thrombosis (OR 16.70).

Conclusion

These findings suggest renal patients are at increased risk for complications after PHF ORIF, highlighting the importance of close perioperative monitoring and appropriate patient selection in this population, including strong consideration of nonoperative management.

The association between dietary sodium intake and osteoporosis

The association of inadequate dietary sodium intake with bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of osteoporosis is controversial. To find the association between low sodium diet and the risk of incipient osteoporosis, we performed a population-based cross-sectional analysis using Tanaka method for estimation 24-h urinary sodium excretion (e24hUNaE_Tanaka) as a candidate indicator of sodium intake. We identified 3869 participants without osteoporosis and classified them into quartiles according to their value of e24hUNaE_Tanaka. BMD was measured to find participants at risk of osteoporosis. Lower e24hUNaE_Tanaka was related to decreasing BMD of the distal radius. Multiple Cox-proportional hazard models demonstrated that e24hUNaE_Tanaka had an inverse association with the risk of osteoporosis (adjusted HR = 0.859, 95% CI = 0.751-0.982) and survival analysis revealed that the lowest quartile group had poor osteoporosis-free survival (P_Log-rank < 0.0001). Furthermore, our restricted cubic spline analysis revealed that the relationship between e24hUNaE_Tanaka and HR of osteoporosis was negative curvilinear in males and postmenopausal females and positive linear in premenopausal females. Our findings suggest that lower sodium intake was a significant predictor of incipient osteoporosis and there was wide variation in this relationship according to sex and female hormone status.

Antihypertensive drugs demonstrate varying levels of hip fracture risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

By aggregating the literature, we evaluated the association between use of specific antihypertensive drugs and the risk of hip fractures compared with nonuse.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

We systematically searched the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases from inception of each database until July 30, 2020 to identify articles including patients 18 years of age or older reporting on the association between antihypertensive drugs and the risk of hip fracture. Antihypertensive drugs were restricted to thiazides; beta-blockers; calcium-channel blockers; angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors; and angiotensin receptor blockers. Nonusers encompass all patients that are not using the specific antihypertensive drug that has been reported. Unadjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the association between antihypertensive drug use and hip fractures were reported. Meta-analysis was performed when a minimum of five studies were identified for each antihypertensive drug class. Quality assessment was done using ROBINS-I tool. The GRADE approach was used to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

RESULTS

Of 962 citations, 22 observational studies were included; 9 studies had a cohort design and 13 studies were case-control studies. No randomized controlled trials were identified. We found very low certainty of evidence that both thiazides (pooled odds ratio: 0.85, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.99, p = 0.04) as well as beta-blockers (pooled odds ratio: 0.88, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.98, p = 0.02) were associated with a reduced hip fracture risk as compared to specific nonuse. One study, reporting on angiotensin receptor blockers, also suggested a protective effect for hip fractures, whereas we found conflicting findings in four studies for calcium-channel blockers and in two studies for ACE inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

Among 22 observational studies, we found very low certainty of evidence that, compared to specific nonuse of antihypertensive drugs, use of thiazides, beta-blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers were associated with a reduced protective hip fracture risk, while conflicting findings for calcium-channel blockers and ACE inhibitors were found. Given the low quality of included studies, further research -randomized controlled trials- are needed to definitively assess the causal relationship between specific antihypertensive drug classes and (relatively infrequent) hip fractures.

A Comparison of Acute Complications and Mortality Between Geriatric Knee and Hip Fractures: A Matched Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

To compare acute complication and mortality rates for operatively treated, closed, isolated, low-energy geriatric knee fractures (distal femur [DFF] or tibial plateau [TPF]) with hip fractures (HFs).

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. We identified all patients ≥ 70 years from 2011 to 2016 who underwent surgery for DFF, TPF, or HF. We recorded patient demographics, functional status, complications, and mortality. We matched DFF:TPF:HF patients on a 1:1:10 ratio based on age, sex, body mass index, baseline functional status, and comorbidity. We used the chi square, Fisher exact, and Mann Whitney U tests to compare unadjusted differences between groups and multivariable logistic regression to compare the risk of complications, readmission, or death while adjusting for relevant covariates.

RESULTS

When compared with HF, patients in the DFF and TPF groups had longer length of stay and time to index surgery and were more likely to be discharged home. The rate of deep vein thrombosis was significantly higher in the TPF group (TPF = 3.9%, DFF = 1.3%, and HF = 1.2%, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Geriatric knee fractures pose a similar risk of acute complications, mortality, and readmission compared with patients with HF. Future studies investigating strategies to decrease risk in this patient cohort are warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III.

Radiological Outcome Measures Indicate Advantages of Precontoured Locking Compression Plates in Elderly Patients With Split-Depression Fractures to the Lateral Tibial Plateau (AO41B3)

Background

Split-depression fractures to the lateral tibial plateau (AO41B3) often feature severe joint surface destructions. Precontoured locking compression plates (LCPs) are designed for optimum support of the reduced joint surface and have especially been emphasized in reduced bone quality. A lack of evidence still inhibits their broad utilization in elderly patients. Thus, aim of the present study was to investigate the implant-specific radiological outcomes of AO41B3-fractures in young versus elderly patients.

Methods

The hospital’s database was screened for isolated AO41B3-factures, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and radiological follow-up ≥12 months. CT-scans, radiographs, and patients’ records were analyzed. Patients were attributed as young (18–49) or elderly (≥50 years). Additional subgrouping was carried out into precontoured LCP and conventional implants. The Rasmussen Radiological Score (RRS) after 12 months was set as primary outcome parameter. The RRS postoperatively and the medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) postoperatively and after 12 months were secondary outcome parameters.

Results

Fifty nine consecutive patients were included (26 young, 38.2 ± 7.8 years; 33 elderly, 61.3 ± 9.4 years). There were no significant differences regarding mean size and depression depth of the lateral joint surface fragments. Prior to implant-specific subgrouping, the radiological outcome measures revealed no significant differences between young (RRS = 7.7 ± 1.7; MPTA = 90.3 ± 2.3°) and elderly (RRS = 7.2 ± 1.7; MPTA = 90.5 ± 3.3°). After implant-specific subgrouping, the radiological outcome revealed significantly impaired results in young patients with conventional implants (RRS_(C) = 6.9 ± 1.6, RRS_(LCP) = 8.5 ± 1.5, P = .015; MPTA_(C) = 91.5 ± 1.9°, MPTA_(LCP) = 89.1 ± 2.1°, P = .01). The effect was even more pronounced in elderly patients, with highly significant deterioration of the radiological outcome measures for conventional implants compared to precontoured LCP (RRS_(C) = 5.7 ± 1.6, RRS_(LCP) = 8.2 ± .8, P < .001; MPTA_(C) = 92.6 ± 4.2°, MPTA_(LCP) = 89.2 ± 1.4°, P = .002).

Conclusion

Utilizing precontoured LCP in the treatment of AO41B3-fractures is associated with improved radiological outcomes. This effect is significant in young but even more pronounced in elderly patients. Consequently, precontoured LCP should closely be considered in any AO41B3-fracture, but especially in elderly patients.

Management of Geriatric Elbow Injury

Approximately 4.1% of all fractures in the elderly involve the elbow. Most elbow injuries in geriatric patients occur as the result of low-energy mechanisms such as falls from standing height. Elbow injuries in elderly patients present complex challenges because of insufficient bone quality, comminution, articular fragmentation, and preexisting conditions, such as arthritis. Medical comorbidities and baseline level of function must be heavily considered in surgical decision making.

Immediate weight-bearing is safe following lateral locked plate fixation of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine whether unrestricted weight-bearing as tolerated (WBAT) following lateral locking plate (LLP) fixation of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures (PDFFs) is associated with increased failure and reoperation, compared with restricted weight-bearing (RWB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with unilateral PDFFs undergoing LLP fixation, patients prescribed WBAT were compared with those prescribed 6 weeks of RWB. The primary outcome measure was reoperation. Kaplan-Meier and Cox multivariable analyses were performed.

RESULTS

There were 43 patients (mean age 80.9 ± 11.7 years, body mass index 26.8 ± 5.7 kg/m² and 86.0% female): 28 WBAT and 15 RWB. There were more interprosthetic fractures in the RWB group (p = 0.040). Mean follow-up was 3.8 years (range 1.0-10.4). Eight patients (18.6%) underwent reoperation. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated no difference in 2-year survival between WBAT (80.6%, 95% CI 65.3-95.9) and RWB (83.3%, 95% CI 62.1-100.0; p = 0.54). Cox analysis showed increased reoperation risk with medial comminution (hazard ratio 10.7, 95% CI 1.5-80; p = 0.020) and decreased risk with anatomic reduction (hazard ratio 0.11, 95% CI 0.01-1.0; p = 0.046). Immediate weight-bearing did not significantly affect the risk of reoperation compared with RWB (relative risk 1.03, 95% CI 0.61-1.74; p = 0.91).

CONCLUSIONS

LLP fixation failure was associated with medial comminution and non-anatomic reductions, not with postoperative weight-bearing. Medial comminution should be managed with additional fixation. Weight-bearing restrictions additional to this appear unnecessary and should be avoided.

Changing epidemiology of lower extremity fractures in adults over a 15-year period - a National Hospital Discharge Registry study

Background

Demographic changes led to an increasingly ageing population in Germany and thus to possible changes in the frequency of fractures. The primary aim of this study was to report changes in fracture rates of the lower extremities in Germany in 2002 compared to 2017 and to evaluate those changes.

Methods

Inpatient data from the German National Hospital Discharge Registry (ICD10) for 2002 and 2017 were evaluated. Changes in total counts and incidence rates were analysed for fractures in the following locations: femoral neck, pertrochanteric, subtrochanteric, distal femur, femoral shaft, proximal and distal tibia, tibial shaft, medial and lateral malleolus, and other parts of the lower leg (including bi- and trimalleolar fractures), calcaneus, talus, other tarsal bones, metatarsal bones, greater toe, lesser toe, other fractures of foot or unspecific fractures of foot and toe. Patients were classed into age groups by sex: 15–24, 25–34,35–44, 45–54, 55–64, 65–74, 75–84, 85–90 and >  90 years.

Results

The total count for lower extremity fractures in men and women increased slightly by 4.5% from 305,764 in 2002 to 319,422 in 2017. Hip and femur fractures increased by 23.5% from 150,565 in 2002 to 185,979 in 2017. The number of these fractures among men increased by 46% and among women by 15.3%. The total count of lower leg fractures decreased by 15.4% from 131,162 in 2002 to 110,924 in 2017. Especially, younger age groups showed a decline for all tibial segments and ankle fractures. For both sexes, the number of lower leg fractures in those 75 years or older increased in all lower leg fracture locations. Most femur and lower leg fractures occurred in women. The incidence of fractures rose sharply from 2002 to 2017, especially for older cohorts.

Conclusion

The total numbers of lower extremity fractures increased slightly in 2017 compared to 2002 – especially hip and femur fractures among men. The incidence of almost all lower extremity fracture types among older people increased during this time. Women were particularly affected. Therefore, focused prevention programmes should be considered including an extended fracture spectrum in the elderly.

Prevention of postoperative surgical wound complications in ankle and distal tibia fractures: results of Incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK

complications in surgical wound healing represent the main postoperative complication in ankle and distal tibia fractures. Whereas the use of Incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (INPWT) is recognized to have a role in wound complications prevention in prosthetic surgery, literature about its use in trauma surgery is scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of INWPT with a conventional dressing in order to prevent surgical wound complications in ankle and distal tibia fractures.

METHODS

The study population included patients over 65 years as well as patients under 65 years considered at risk for wound complications (smokers, obese, affected by diabetes), who underwent ORIF for bi/tri-malleolar ankle fractures or distal tibia (pilon) fractures. After surgery, patients were randomized to receive a conventional dressing or INPWT. Complications in surgical wound healing were classified in major (requiring surgical intervention) and minor complications.

RESULTS

65 patients were included in the study. The rate of minor and major complications between the two groups was not significantly different, although a positive trend towards a lower minor complications rate was noted in the INPWT group (12.6% vs 34.7%). No complications or complaints were reported for the INPWT device.

CONCLUSIONS

INPWT proved to be safe, well-tolerated and showed promising results in preventing surgical wound complications in ankle and distal tibia fractures.

Mortality after a proximal humeral fracture

Aims

The aims of this study were to investigate the mortality following a proximal humeral fracture. Data from a large population-based fracture register were used to quantify 30-day, 90-day, and one-year mortality rates after a proximal humeral fracture. Associations between the risk of mortality and the type of fracture and its treatment were assessed, and mortality rates were compared between patients who sustained a fracture and the general population.

Methods

All patients with a proximal humeral fracture recorded in the Swedish Fracture Register between 2011 and 2017 were included in the study. Those who died during follow-up were identified via linkage with the Swedish Tax Agency population register. Age- and sex-adjusted controls were retrieved from Statistics Sweden and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated.

Results

A total of 18,452 patients who sustained a proximal humeral fracture were included. Their mean age was 68.8 years (16 to 107) and the majority (13,729; 74.4%) were women. A total of 310 (1.68%) died within 30 days, 615 (3.33%) within 90 days, and 1,445 (7.83%) within one year after the injury. The mortality in patients sustaining a fracture and the general population was 1,680/100,000 and 326/100,000 at 30 days, 3,333/100,000 and 979/100,000 at 90 days, and 7,831/100,000 and 3,970/100,000 at one year, respectively. Increasing age, male sex, low-energy trauma, type A fracture, concomitant fractures, and non-surgical treatment were all independent factors associated with an increased risk of mortality.

Conclusion

Compared with the general population, patients sustaining a proximal humeral fracture have a significantly higher risk of mortality up to one year after the injury. The risk of mortality is five times higher during the first 30 days, diminishing to two times higher at one year, suggesting that these patients constitute a strikingly frail group, in whom appropriate immediate management and medical optimization are required. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1484–1490.

Total Joint Arthroplasty Is Associated With a Decreased Risk of Traumatic Falls: An Analysis of 499,094 Cases

INTRODUCTION

The rate of traumatic falls in the aging cohort is estimated to increase across the United States. We sought to determine whether patients with lower extremity osteoarthritis (OA) who underwent total joint arthroplasty (TJA) had a reduced risk of falling compared with those with OA who did not undergo TJA.

METHODS

The New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was queried from 2000 to 2015 to identify 499,094 cases with primary diagnosis of hip or knee OA. Patients were stratified into 4 cohorts: group 1 (hip OA with total hip arthroplasty [THA] [N = 168,234]), group 2 (hip OA without THA [N = 22,482]), group 3 (knee OA with total knee arthroplasty [TKA] [N = 275,651]), and group 4 (knee OA without TKA [N = 32,826]). Patients were followed up longitudinally to evaluate the long-term risks of subsequent traumatic falls. Cox proportional hazards models were conducted to examine the relationship between patients' demographics and clinical characteristics and the risk of subsequent traumatic falls and reported as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

RESULTS

Nineteen thousand seven hundred seventeen patients with hip OA underwent 168,234 primary THAs (88.2%), and 308,477 patients with knee OA underwent 275,651 primary TKAs (89.4%) during the period 2000 to 2015. Compared with patients without TJA, those who underwent TJA were at a decreased risk of falls (THA HR 0.56 [95% CI, 0.48 to 0.66]) and TKA HR 0.66 [95% CI, 0.57 to 0.76]). Compared with age 40 to 49 years, risk increases for ages 70 to 79 years (HR = 4.3, 95% CI: 2.8 to 6.6) and 80 years or older (HR = 5.5, 95% CI: 3.8 to 8.1).

CONCLUSION

TJA is associated with a decreased risk of long-term traumatic falls in elderly patients with the primary diagnosis of hip or knee osteoarthritis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Retrospective Case-control study.

Mortality after a proximal humeral fracture

AIMS

The aims of this study were to investigate the mortality following a proximal humeral fracture. Data from a large population-based fracture register were used to quantify 30-day, 90-day, and one-year mortality rates after a proximal humeral fracture. Associations between the risk of mortality and the type of fracture and its treatment were assessed, and mortality rates were compared between patients who sustained a fracture and the general population.

METHODS

All patients with a proximal humeral fracture recorded in the Swedish Fracture Register between 2011 and 2017 were included in the study. Those who died during follow-up were identified via linkage with the Swedish Tax Agency population register. Age- and sex-adjusted controls were retrieved from Statistics Sweden and standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 18,452 patients who sustained a proximal humeral fracture were included. Their mean age was 68.8 years (16 to 107) and the majority (13,729; 74.4%) were women. A total of 310 (1.68%) died within 30 days, 615 (3.33%) within 90 days, and 1,445 (7.83%) within one year after the injury. The mortality in patients sustaining a fracture and the general population was 1,680/100,000 and 326/100,000 at 30 days, 3,333/100,000 and 979/100,000 at 90 days, and 7,831/100,000 and 3,970/100,000 at one year, respectively. Increasing age, male sex, low-energy trauma, type A fracture, concomitant fractures, and non-surgical treatment were all independent factors associated with an increased risk of mortality.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the general population, patients sustaining a proximal humeral fracture have a significantly higher risk of mortality up to one year after the injury. The risk of mortality is five times higher during the first 30 days, diminishing to two times higher at one year, suggesting that these patients constitute a strikingly frail group, in whom appropriate immediate management and medical optimization are required.

Knee Fracture Increases TKA Risk After Initial Fracture Treatment and Throughout Life

BACKGROUND

Knee fractures may lead to post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis and subsequent TKA in some patients. However, absolute risk estimates and risk factors for TKA in patients with knee fractures compared with those of the general population remain largely unknown. Such knowledge would help establish the treatment burden and direct patient counseling after a knee fracture is sustained.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) What is the short-term risk of TKA after knee fracture? (2) What is the long-term risk of TKA after knee fracture? (3) What are the risk factors for TKA in patients with knee fractures?

METHODS

A nationwide 20-year, matched-case comparison cohort study of prospectively collected data from the Danish National Patient Registry included all patients at least 15 years old with International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision codes DS724, DS820, or DS821 (knee fractures) on the date their knee fracture was registered. Each patient with a knee fracture was matched (by sex and age) to five people without knee fractures from the general Danish population on the date the knee fracture patient's knee fracture was registered (population controls). Patients with knee fractures and people in the population control group were followed from the date the knee fracture patient's knee fracture was registered to the date of TKA, amputation, knee fusion, emigration, death, or end of follow-up in April 2018. TKA risks for patients with knee fractures versus those for population controls and TKA risk factors in patients with knee fractures were estimated using hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs. A total of 48,791 patients with knee fractures (median age 58 years [interquartile range 41-73]; 58% were female) were matched to 263,593 people in the population control group.

RESULTS

The HR for TKA in patients with knee fractures compared with population controls was 3.74 (95% CI 3.44 to 4.07; p < 0.01) in the first 3 years after knee fracture. Among knee fracture patients, the risk of undergoing TKA was 2% (967 of 48,791) compared with 0.5% (1280 of 263,593) of people in the population control group. After the first 3 years, the HR was 1.59 (95% CI 1.46 to 1.71) and the number of patients with knee fractures with TKA events divided by the number at risk was 2% (849 of 36,272), compared with 1% (2395 of 180,418) of population controls. During the 20-year study period, 4% of patients with knee fractures underwent TKA compared with 1% of population controls. Risk factors for TKA in patients with knee fractures were: primary knee osteoarthritis (OA) versus no primary knee OA (HR 9.57 [95% CI 5.39 to 16.98]), surgical treatment with external fixation versus open reduction and internal fixation and reduction only (HR 1.92 [95 % CI 1.01 to 3.66]), proximal tibia fracture versus patellar fracture (HR 1.75 [95 % CI 1.30 to 2.36]), and distal femur fracture versus patellar fracture (HR 1.68 [95 % CI 1.08 to 2.64]). Surgical treatment of knee fractures was also a risk factor for TKA. The HRs for TKA in patients with knee fractures who were surgically treated versus those who were treated non-surgically were 2.05 (95% CI 1.83 to 2.30) in the first 5 years after knee fracture and 1.19 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.41) after 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with knee fractures have a 3.7 times greater risk of TKA in the first 3 years after knee fracture, and the risk remains 1.6 times greater after 3 years and throughout their lifetimes. Primary knee OA, surgical treatment of knee fractures, external fixation, proximal tibia fractures, and distal femur fractures are TKA risk factors. These risk estimates and risk factors highlight the treatment burden of knee fractures, building a foundation for future studies to further counsel patients on their risk of undergoing TKA based on patient-, fracture-, and treatment-specific factors.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, prognostic study.

Consistency between anticholinergic burden scales in the elderly with fractures

OBJECTIVE

Falls and bone fractures are important causes of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. The objective of this study was to identify the degree of consistency between the anticholinergic scales used for patients diagnosed with fractures.

METHODS

This was an analytical agreement study conducted in patients diagnosed with vertebral and nonvertebral fractures in Colombia. The quadratic-weighted kappa coefficient was used to identify the consistency between the Anticholinergic Drug Scale-ADS, Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Scale-ACB and Anticholinergic Risk Scale-ARS in assessing the prescriptions of fracture patients during the month prior to the fracture, during their stay as an inpatient and at discharge, according to Landis criteria.

RESULTS

220 patients with fractures were included, with a mean age of 75.3±10.3 years, and 68.2% were women. The ACB scale identified the highest anticholinergic burden (26.8%) in prescriptions made the month before the fracture, and the highest agreement was between ACB and ADS (0.717); during hospitalization and at discharge, the cholinergic antagonists were best identified with ADS (77.7% and 72.1%, respectively), with the best agreement between ACB and ARS (0.613 and 0.568, respectively). The prescription of tramadol was found in 64.1% of hospitalized patients and in 61.4% of patients at the time of discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

The scales evaluated show marked discrepancies between them, with highly variable frequencies of anticholinergic drugs identified at the different prescription times, and with low agreement among them, which is why the scales are not interchangeable in patients with bone fractures.

Trends in fracture development of the upper extremity in Germany-a population-based description of the past 15 years

Background

Recent studies investigating fracture development in Germany are not available especially with regard to demographic change. The primary aim of this study was to report trends in fracture development of the upper extremity in Germany between 2002 and 2017 and to evaluate changes over time.

Methods

Evaluating inpatient data from the German National Hospital Discharge Registry (International Classification of Diseases, ICD-10) between 2002 and 2017. Total count, incidences and percentage changes of the following fracture localizations were analysed: proximal humerus, distal humerus, proximal ulna, proximal radius, ulna diaphysis (including Monteggia lesion) and distal radius. Ten age groups for men and women were formed: 35–44, 45–54, 55–64, 65–74; 75–84; 85–90, and > 90 (years).

Results

The total count of proximal humeral fractures increased from 40,839 (2002, men/women 9967/30,872) to 59,545 (2017, men/women 14,484/45,061). Distal humeral fractures increased from 5912 (2002, men/women 1559/4353) to 6493 (2017, men/women1840/4653). The total count of forearm fractures increased from 68,636 (2002, men/women 17,186/51,450) to 89,040 (2017, men/women 20,185/68,855). Women were affected in 70–75% of all cases with rising incidences among nearly every age group in female patients.

Conclusion

Total count of nearly every evaluated fracture increased. Also, incidences increased especially in the older female age groups. Fracture development already seems to reflect demographic changes in Germany.

The role of greater tuberosity healing in reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a finite element analysis

BACKGROUND

The lack of greater tuberosity (GT) healing in proximal humerus fractures has been negatively correlated with outcomes for hemiarthroplasty; however, there is still debate regarding the effects of GT healing in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). Our goal was to examine the effects of GT healing using a kinematic finite element analysis (FEA) model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Computer-aided design models of a medialized glenoid with a lateralized humerus (MGLH) RSA design were uploaded into an FEA shoulder model in 2 different configurations: healed greater tuberosity (HGT) and nonunion greater tuberosity (NGT). Deltoid muscle forces and joint reaction forces (JRFs) on the shoulder were calculated during abduction (ABD), forward flexion (FF), and external rotation (ER).

RESULTS

Force magnitude of the anterior, middle, and posterior deltoid muscle as well as JRFs modeled in both GT scenarios were similar for ABD (muscle forces P = .91, P = .75, P = .71, respectively; and JRF P = .93) and for FF (muscle forces P = .89, P = .83, P = .99, respectively; and JRF P = .90). For ER, the force magnitude between 2 GT settings showed statistically significant differences (HGT: 9.51 N vs. NGT: 6.13 N) (P < .001). Likewise, during ER, JRFs were different, and the NGT group showed a steep drop in JRF after 10° of ER (HGT: 28.4 N vs. NGT: 18.38 N) (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

GT healing does not seem to impact RSA biomechanics during abduction or forward flexion; however, it does affect biomechanics during external rotation. Overall orthopedic surgeons can expect good results for patients after RSA even with poor GT healing.

Low risk of revision after reverse shoulder arthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures

Background

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has gained popularity in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures (PHFs), especially in elderly patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of RSA implants for acute PHFs and risk of revision, as well as risk factors for revision.

Methods

RSA implants for acute PHFs were identified from the Nordic Arthroplasty Register Association registry data from 2004 to 2016. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to calculate implant survival. Cox multiple regression analysis was used to calculate the adjusted revision rate for sex, age, country of operation, and year of surgery.

Results

The study included 1523 RSA implants for PHFs (84% women; average age, 77 years; average follow-up time, 2.5 years). The 5-year cumulative implant survival rate was 97% (confidence limits, 95.5% and 98%). Revision was performed for 33 implants (2%). The most common reason for revision was instability, occurring in 11 cases (0.7%), followed by fracture, occurring in 6 (0.4%), and infection, occurring in 5 (0.3%). Four different arthroplasty brands were used in this cohort, with the Delta Xtend in two-thirds of cases (n = 1025). Age younger than 60 years and male sex were associated with slightly higher rates of revision; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance (hazard ratio of 2.02 with P = .075 and hazard ratio of 3.23 with P = .057, respectively).

Conclusion

The use of RSA for acute PHFs is increasing in the Nordic countries. The short-term risk of revision is low. The main reason for revision of RSA for this indication is instability.

20-year trends of distal femoral, patellar, and proximal tibial fractures: a Danish nationwide cohort study of 60,823 patients

Background and purpose - Knee fracture treatment burden remains unknown, impeding proper use of hospital resources. We examined 20-year trends in incidence rates (IRs) and patient-, fracture-, and treatment-related characteristics of knee fracture patients.Patients and methods - This nationwide cohort study of prospectively collected data including patients with distal femoral, patellar, and proximal tibial fractures from the Danish National Patient Registry during 1998-2017, assesses IRs of knee fractures (per 10⁵ inhabitants) as well as patient-, fracture-, and treatment-related characteristics of knee fracture patients.Results - During 1998-2017, 60,823 patients (median age 55; 57% female) sustained 74,106 knee fractures. 74% of the study population had a Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) of 0 and 18% a CCI of ≥ 2. 51% were proximal tibial fractures, 31% patellar fractures, and 18% distal femoral fractures. At the time of knee fracture, 20% patients had concomitant near-knee fractures (femur/tibia/fibula shaft/hip/ankle), 13% concomitant fractures (pelvic/spine/thorax/upper extremities), 5% osteoporosis, and 4% primary knee osteoarthritis. Over 1/3 knee fractures were surgically treated and of these 86% were open-reduction internal fixations, 9% external fixations, and 5% knee arthroplasties. The most common surgery type was proximal tibia plating (n = 4,868; 60% female). Knee fracture IR increased 12% to 70, females aged > 51 had the highest knee fracture IR, proximal tibial fracture had the highest knee fracture type IR (32) and surgically treated knee fracture IR increased 35% to 23.Interpretation - Knee fracture IRs, especially of surgically treated knee fractures, are increasing and proximal tibial fracture has the highest knee fracture type IR. Females aged > 51 and patients with comorbidity are associated with knee fracture, proximal tibial fracture, proximal tibial fracture surgery, and posttraumatic knee arthroplasty.

Acute versus delayed reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in the elderly population: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent literature has shown that acute reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) yields good outcomes in the treatment of displaced proximal humeral fractures, and there have also been recent studies showing that delayed RTSA can be successfully used for sequelae of proximal humeral fractures such as nonunion and malunion. The use of meta-analysis affords the opportunity to formally compare the outcomes of acute RTSA for fracture and delayed RTSA for fracture sequelae.

METHODS

We searched the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. We included all studies reporting on RTSA for the treatment of proximal humeral fracture sequelae with a comparison group of acute RTSA or with no comparison group in adults with a mean age older than 65 years and at least 2 years of follow-up. We calculated weighted mean differences for range of motion, standardized mean differences for clinical outcome scores, and relative risks for dichotomous outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria, which comprised 322 patients undergoing RTSA for fracture sequelae. Of these studies, 4 were comparative (46 patients) whereas 12 were case series (276 patients). Among studies directly comparing acute versus delayed RTSA, no differences in forward flexion (P = .72), clinical outcome scores (P = .78), or all-cause reoperation (P = .92) were found between the 2 groups. Patients undergoing delayed RTSA achieved 6° more external rotation than those undergoing acute RTSA; this difference was significant (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the risks associated with surgery in the elderly population, consideration may be given to an initial trial of nonoperative treatment in these patients, saving RTSA for those in whom nonoperative treatment fails without compromising the ultimate outcome.

Patterns of Opioid Use in the 12 Months Following Geriatric Fragility Fractures: A Population-Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

Fractures of the hip, distal radius, and proximal humerus are common in the Medicare population. This study's objective was to characterize patterns and duration of opioid use, including regional variations in use, after both surgical and nonoperative management.

DESIGN

Population-based cohort study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A cohort of opioid-naïve community-dwelling US Medicare beneficiaries who survived a hip, distal radius, or proximal humerus fracture between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2010. Cohort members were required to be opioid-naïve for 4 months prior to fracture.

MEASURES

We analyzed the proportion of patients with an active opioid prescription in each month following the index fracture, and report continued fills at 12 months postfracture. We also compared opioid prescription use in fractures treated surgically and nonsurgically and characterized state-level variation in opioid prescription use at 3 months postfracture.

RESULTS

There were 91,749 patients included in the cohort. Hip fracture patients had the highest rate of opioid use at 12 months (6.4%), followed by proximal humerus (5.7%), and distal radius (3.7%). Patients who underwent surgical fixation of proximal humerus and wrist fractures had higher rates of opioid use in each of the first 12 postoperative months compared with those managed nonoperatively. There was significant variation of opioid use at the state level, ranging from 7.6% to 18.2% of fracture patients filling opioid prescriptions 3 months after the index fracture.

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS

Opioid-naïve patients sustaining fragility fractures of the hip, proximal humerus, or distal radius are at risk to remain on opioid medications 12 months after their index injury, and surgical management of proximal humerus and distal radius fractures increases opioid use in the 12 months after the index fracture. There is significant state-level variation in opiate consumption after index fracture in nonvertebral geriatric fragility fractures. Opportunity exists for targeted quality improvement efforts to reduce the variation in opioid use following common geriatric fragility fractures.

Fracture patterns in patients with multiple fractures: the probability of multiple fractures and the most frequently associated regions

INTRODUCTION

Multiple fractures are of high clinical relevance, as a significant increase in mortality rate has been described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in age and gender distribution in multiple fractures dependent on severity of trauma. Furthermore, affected anatomic regions and frequently associated fracture regions were investigated.

METHODS

Patients who had sustained multiple fractures between 2000 and 2012 were included in this study. At hospital admission, patients were divided according to trauma severity (high- vs low-traumatic), gender, and age for demographic analysis. Fractures were grouped in anatomical regions, and multiple fracture event probabilities as well as frequently associated regions were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 25,043 patients at an age range of 0-100 years (5.8% of all fracture patients; 14,769 male and 10,274 female patients) who sustained 57,862 multiple fractures were included. The lumbar/thoracic spine, cervical spine, femoral shaft, skull, and pelvis showed a probability of more than 40% of the presence of further fractures in each high-traumatic fracture event. In high-traumatic fracture events, male patients were more affected (p < 0.001). Considering low-traumatic fractures, female patients had a significantly higher proportion (p < 0.001) of multiple fractures among all fractures than male patients.

CONCLUSIONS

As a novelty, gender as well as age distributions in multiple fracture patients and a probability statement with the most affected anatomic regions, the risk of presence of further fractures for every region, and the frequently associated fracture regions including the percentage of occurrence are provided. These aspects yield new opportunities for clinical work and may reduce the high rate of overlooked fractures stated in the literature.

Fracture admission trends in England over a ten-year period

INTRODUCTION

Fractures are a common reason for admission to hospital around the world. Varying incidences have been reported but these are mainly based on small studies from individual centres. The aim of our study was to analyse fracture admissions in England over a ten-year period.

METHODS

Data were collated from the Hospital Episodes Statistics database. Since 2004, data have been collected for all admitted patients in England using the International Classification of Diseases codes for the primary diagnosis. Data were analysed for the ten-year period between 2004-2005 and 2013-2014.

RESULTS

There were 2,489,052 fracture admissions in England over the 10-year study period. The risk of admission for fracture was 47.84 per 10,000 population. The rate of fracture admission has remained stable. Hip fractures were the most common fracture requiring hospitalisation (n=641,263), followed by distal radius fractures (n=406,313), ankle fractures (n=332,617) and hand fractures (n=244,013). Hip fractures accounted for 58% of hospital bed days, ankle fractures for 10%, and femoral shaft fractures and subtrochanteric femoral fractures for 5% each. The number of bed days per year for hip fractures has reduced from 1,549,939 bed days in 2004-2005 to 1,319,642 in 2013-2014.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an updated picture of the incidence of fractures that required hospital admission over a ten-year period in England. It may be used as a platform from which the effect of modern patient treatment pathways can be monitored.

How the greater tuberosity affects clinical outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures

BACKGROUND

Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures in a large cohort of elderly patients and compare the results in the case of tuberosity excision, failed fixation, or anatomic healing.

METHODS

In this retrospective multicenter study, 420 patients underwent review and radiography with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the status of the greater tuberosity (GT) on the last anteroposterior radiographs: anatomic GT healing (group A, n = 169); GT resorption, malunion, or nonunion (group B, n = 131); and GT excision (group C, n = 120). Complications were recorded; shoulder function, active mobility, and subjective results were assessed.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 28 months, the mean Simple Shoulder Value in group A (75%) outperformed the results found in groups B (69%, P < .001) and C (56%, P < .001). Overall, the mean adjusted Constant-Murley score was significantly higher in group A (93% ± 22%) than in group B (82% ± 22%) and group C (80% ± 24%) (P < .001), but there was no difference between groups B and C (P = .88). Anterior active elevation and external rotation were significantly better in group A than in groups B and C (P < .001). The instability rate was significantly higher in group C (n = 15 [12.5%], P < .001) than in group A (n = 2) or group B (n = 3).

CONCLUSION

In elderly patients who have undergone a reverse shoulder arthroplasty for acute proximal humeral fractures, anatomic tuberosity healing improves objective and subjective outcomes. GT excision is associated with the worst functional results and increases the risk of postoperative shoulder instability.

Fractures in older adults. A view of the future?

INTRODUCTION

It is accepted that the incidence of fractures in patients aged ≥ 65 years is increasing but little is known about which fractures are becoming more common in this group of patients. Virtually all research has concentrated on the classic fragility fractures of the proximal femur, proximal humerus, pelvis, spine and distal radius but it is likely that other fractures are becoming more common.

METHODS

We have examined two prospectively collected databases 10 years apart to see which fractures are becoming more common in ≥ 65 year old patients. We compared the fractures to look for epidemiological differences over the 10-year period and we compared the epidemiology of the fractures that had increased in incidence with equivalent fractures in the < 65 year old population.

RESULTS

Analysis shows that in older female patients fractures of the clavicle, finger phalanges, ankle and metatarsus are increasing in incidence. In males there is an increasing incidence of fractures of the proximal humerus, distal humerus, metacarpus, pelvis, femoral diaphysis, distal tibia and ankle. In females the basic epidemiology of fractures in the ≥ 65 year old population was very similar to the fractures seen in younger females and we believe that the increasing incidence of fractures in the future will mainly be low velocity fractures following falls. In older males however, it is apparent that there is a much wider variation in the causes of fracture.

DISCUSSION

We believe that the changes in fracture epidemiology in older patients relate to improved health and longevity and analysis of our population during the study period shows significant social changes which are associated with increased longevity and improved health. It is probable that fractures in older patients will continue to increase in incidence and that other fractures that are now commonly seen in middle-aged patients will be seen in older patients. Surgeons will have to treat more complex fractures in older males than in older females and it is likely that there will be a higher incidence of open and multiple fractures. Appropriate management techniques will need to be established.

Tibial plateau fractures in elderly people: an institutional retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Tibial plateau fractures are the most common intra-articular fractures, which require careful evaluation and preoperative planning. The treatment of tibial plateau fractures in elderly patients is challenging, and the comprehension of epidemiology and morphology can be helpful. This study described the characteristics of geriatric tibial plateau fractures.

METHODS

A total of 327 (23.24%) patients aged ≥60 years were reviewed in our level one trauma center over a 4-year period (from January 2013 to November 2016). The following parameters were collected and evaluated: (1) demographic data, (2) injury mechanisms and (3) fracture classifications.

RESULTS

Females accounted for 60.86% in all included elderly patients. Electric-bike accidents were the cause of 32.42% of all these injuries, and 39.62% of these led to high-energy injuries. The most common type of fracture was Schatzker II (54.74%). According to the three-column classification, single lateral column fracture (28.75%) and four-quadrant fracture (involving lateral, medial, posterolateral and posteromedial fractures) (23.24%) were the two most frequent patterns. In all cases, 67.58% involved the posterior column, and the prevalence of posterolateral and posteromedial fractures were 62.69% and 37.92% respectively. Isolated posterior column fractures accounted for 12.54% of patients in total, which mostly consisted of posterolateral fracture in older females (85.37%).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of elderly patients with tibial plateau fractures are females, and Electric-bike accidents are an important cause of injury. Geriatric tibial plateau fractures have unique distribution in classification.

Use of a 5-Item Modified Frailty Index for Risk Stratification in Patients Undergoing Surgical Management of Distal Radius Fractures

PURPOSE

Compared with cast treatment, surgery may expose patients with distal radius fractures to undue risk. Surgical intervention in this cohort may offer less benefit than previously thought and appropriate patient selection is imperative. The modified Frailty Index (mFI) predicts complications after other orthopedic surgeries. We hypothesized that this index would predict, and might ultimately prevent, complications in patients older than 50 years with distal radius fractures.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the American College of Surgeons-National Surgery Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database, including patients older than 50 years who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of a distal radius fracture. A 5-item mFI score was then calculated for each patient. Postoperative complications, readmission and reoperation rates, as well as length of stay (LOS) were recorded. Bivariate and multivariable statistical analysis was then performed.

RESULTS

We identified 6,494 patients (mean age, 65 years). Compared with patients with mFI of 0, patients with mFI of 2 or greater were nearly 2.5 times as likely to incur a postoperative complication (1.7% vs 7.4%). Specifically, the rates of Clavien-Dindo IV, wound, cardiac, and renal complications were increased significantly in patients with mFI of 2 or greater. In addition, as mFI increased from 0 to 2 or greater, 30-day reoperation rate increased from 0.8% to 2.4%, 30-day readmission from 0.8% to 4.6%, and LOS from 0.5 days to 1.44 days. Frailty was associated with increased complications as well as rates of readmission and reoperation even when controlling for demographic data, LOS, and operative time. Age alone was not significantly associated with postoperative complications, readmission, reoperation, or LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

A state of frailty is highly predictive of postoperative complications, readmission, reoperation, and increased LOS following open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures. Our data suggest that a simple frailty evaluation can help inform surgical decision making in patients older than 50 years with distal radius fractures.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic II.

Factors Affecting Bone Mineral Density Measurement after Fracture in South Korea

Background

Prior osteoporotic fractures are strongly associated with the subsequent fractures. To prevent this, the diagnosis of osteoporosis following an osteoporotic fracture is important. The measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) is the first step for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. Therefore, the purposes of this study are 1) to evaluate the rate of BMD measurement after osteoporotic fracture in Korean population; and 2) determine the associated factors with BMD measurement after fractures among Korean patients.

Methods

From database of Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service, we identified patients with osteoporotic fractures happened in 2010. The BMD examinations were evaluated by using procedure codes. We evaluated the rate of BMD measurement within 6 months after fracture according to gender, age group (10-year incremental), type of insurance, residency area (rural vs. urban), type of medical institute, department, history of depression, rheumatoid arthritis, medical history suggestive of secondary osteoporosis, osteoporosis-induced drug, and number of family members.

Results

During study period, about a half (53.9%) of patients with osteoporotic fractures had BMD measurement. Men, younger age, urban residency, and depression history were associated with low rate of BMD measurement. However, increasing age, use of glucocorticoid use, osteoporosis-inducing comorbid disease including rheumatologic disease, and osteoporosis-induced drug user were associated with higher likelihood of BMD measurement.

Conclusions

Our results showed that about a half of patients with osteoporotic fractures had BMD measurement in South Korea, and provided the basic information to encourage management after fracture by educating not only patient but also physician about post-fracture management.

Sliding hip screw versus the Targon PFT nail for trochanteric hip fractures

Aims

To compare the outcomes for trochanteric fractures treated with a sliding hip screw (SHS) or a cephalomedullary nail.

Patients and Methods

A total of 400 patients with a trochanteric hip fracture were randomised to receive a SHS or a cephalomedullary nail (Targon PFT). All surviving patients were followed up to one year from injury. Functional outcome was assessed by a research nurse blinded to the implant used.

Results

Recovery of mobility, as assessed by a mobility scale, was superior for those treated with the intramedullary nail compared with the SHS at eight weeks, three and nine months (p-values between 0.01 and 0.04), the difference at six and 12 months was not statistically significant (p = 0.15 and p = 0.18 respectively). The mean difference was around 0.4 points (0.3 to 0.5) on a nine point scale. Surgical time for the nail was four minutes less than that for the SHS (p < 0.001). Fracture healing complications were similar for the two groups. There were no statistically significant differences between implants for any other recorded outcomes including the need for post-operative blood transfusion, wound healing complications, general medical complications, hospital stay or mortality.

Conclusion

This study confirms the findings of a previous study that both methods of treatment produce similar results, although intramedullary fixation does result in marginally improved regain of mobility in comparison with the SHS. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1210–15.

Epidemiology of extremity fractures in the Netherlands

INTRODUCTION

Insight in epidemiologic data of extremity fractures is relevant to identify people at risk. By analyzing age- and gender specific fracture incidence and treatment patterns we may adjust future policy, take preventive measures and optimize health care management. Current epidemiologic data on extremity fractures and their treatment are scarce, outdated or aiming at a small spectrum of fractures. The aim of this study was to assess trends in incidence and treatment of extremity fractures between 2004 and 2012 in relation to gender and age.

METHODS

We used a combination of national registries of patients aged ≥ 16 years with extremity fractures. Fractures were coded by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 10, and allocated to an anatomic region. ICD-10 codes were used for combining the data of the registries. Absolute numbers, incidences, number of patients treated in university hospitals and surgically treated patients were reported. A binary logistic regression was used to calculate trends during the study period.

RESULTS

From 2004 to 2012 the Dutch population aged ≥16 years grew from 13,047,018 to 13,639,412 inhabitants, particularly in the higher age groups of 46 years and older. The absolute number of extremity fractures increased significantly from 129,188 to 176,129 (OR 1.308 [1.299-1.318]), except for forearm and lower leg fractures. Incidences increased significantly (3-4%) for wrist, hand/finger, hip/upper leg, ankle and foot/toe fractures. In contrast to the older age categories from 66 years and older, in younger age categories from 16 to 35 years, fractures of the extremities were more frequent in men than in women. Treatments gradually moved towards non-university hospitals for all except forearm fractures. Both relative and absolute numbers increased for surgical treatments of clavicle/shoulder, forearm, wrist and hand/finger fractures. Contrarily, lower extremity fractures showed an increase in non-surgical treatment, except for lower leg fractures.

CONCLUSION

During the study period, we observed an increasing incidence of extremity fractures and a shift towards surgical treatment. Patient numbers in university hospitals declined. If these trends continue, policy makers would be well advised to consider the changing demands in extremity fracture treatment and pro-actively increase capacity and resources.

Global Forum: Fractures in the Elderly

Fractures in the elderly are increasing in incidence and becoming a major health issue in many countries. With an increasing number of the elderly living to an older age, the problems associated with fractures will continue to increase. We describe the epidemiology of fractures in the elderly and identify six fracture patterns in the population of patients who are sixty-five years of age or older. We also analyzed multiple fractures and open fractures in the elderly and we show that both increase in incidence with older age. The incidence of open fractures in elderly women is equivalent to that in young men. Many factors, including patient socioeconomic deprivation, increase the incidence of fractures in the elderly. More than 90% of fractures follow low-energy falls and the mortality is considerable. Mortality increases with older age and medical comorbidities, but there is also evidence that it relates to premature discharge from the hospital.

Retrograde nailing for distal femur fractures in the elderly

Introduction: We report the results of treating a series of 56 fractures in 54 elderly patients with a distal femur fracture with a retrograde femoral nail.

Methods: Fifty-four of the nails were inserted percutaneously with a closed reduction. After surgery all patients were allowed to weight bear as tolerated. Four fractures were supported in a temporary external splint.

Results: The mean age of patients was 80.6 years (range 51–103 years), 52/54 (96%) were females. There were no cases of nail related complications and no re-operations were required. One patient was lost to follow up. The 30-day mortality was 5/54 (9.3%) and the one year mortality was 17/54 (31.5%).

Conclusions: Distal femoral nail fixation provides a good method of fixation allowing immediate mobilisation for this group of patients.

Open fractures in the elderly. The importance of skin ageing

Open fractures in the elderly are rare and there is little information about them. We have reviewed 484 open fractures in patients aged ≥65 years over a 15-year period and compared them with 1902 open fractures in patients <65 years treated in the same period. The incidence of open fractures increased significantly with age. The incidence of open fractures in patients aged <65 years was 296.6/10(6)/year compared which increased to 332.3/10(6)/year in patients aged ≥65 years and further still to 446.7/10(6)/year in the super-elderly aged ≥80 years The fracture distribution curves show that males aged 15-19 years and females aged ≥90 years have a very similar incidence of open fractures. In males the incidence declines almost linearly, whereas in females there is a steady increase in fracture incidence with age until the 7th decade of life when the incidence rises sharply. About 60% of open fractures in the elderly follow a fall and most fractures are caused by low energy injuries. Despite this there is a high incidence of Gustilo Type III fractures, particularly in females. The commonest open fractures in females are those of the distal radius and ulna, fingers, tibia and fibula and ankle, all fractures with subcutaneous locations. It has been shown that ageing alters the mechanical properties of skin and we believe that this accounts for the increased incidence of open fractures in elderly females which occurs about 1 decade after the post-menopausal increase in fracture incidence.

Comparing bone microarchitecture by trabecular bone score (TBS) in Caucasian American women with and without osteoporotic fractures

Several cross-sectional studies have shown the ability of the TBS to discriminate between those with and without fractures in European populations. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of TBS to discriminate between those with and without fractures in a large female Caucasian population in the USA. This was a case-control study of 2,165 Caucasian American women aged 40 and older. Patients with illness or taking medications known to affect bone metabolism were excluded. Those in the fracture group (n = 289) had at least one low-energy fracture. BMD was measured at L1-L4, TBS calculated directly from the same DXA image. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests for difference were used. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were created to investigate possible association between independent variables and the status of fracture. Odds ratios per standard deviation decrease (OR) and areas under the ROC curve were calculated for discriminating parameters. Weak correlations were observed between TBS and BMD and between TBS and BMI (r = 0.33 and -0.17, respectively, p < 0.01). Mean age, weight, BMD and TBS were significantly different between control and fracture groups (all p ≤ 0.05), whereas no difference was noted for BMI or height. After adjusting for age, weight, BMD, smoking, and maternal and family history of fracture, TBS (but not BMD) remained a significant predictor of fracture: OR 1.28[1.13-1.46] even after adjustment. In a US female population, TBS again was able to discriminate between those with and those without fractures, even after adjusting for other clinical risk factors.