Can the use of an evidence-based algorithm for the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures of the hip maintain quality at a reduced cost?

Risk of Peri-implant Fracture With Long Versus Short Cephalomedullary Nailing for Geriatric Patients With Intertrochanteric Femur Fracture

Intramedullary fixation using a short or long cephalomedullary nail (CMN) for treating hip fractures has gained popularity in recent years. We evaluated reoperation rates requiring device removal of short or long CMNs for patients 65 years and older. A retrospective study was performed at a level I trauma center over a 10-year period (2005-2015). Patients 65 years and older who were treated for intertrochanteric hip fractures with CMNs were included. This study included 893 patients (600 patients treated with a short CMN vs 293 treated with a long CMN). Patients in both cohorts were comparable in age, sex, and Injury Severity Score. There was no significant difference in comorbidities between the short and long CMN groups. Hospital length of stay (7.13 vs 6.88 days, P=.407) and intensive care unit length of stay (4.97 vs 4.63 days, P=.732) were not significantly different between the short and long CMN cohorts, respectively. The in-hospital mortality rate also did not vary between the 2 groups (1.3% for short CMN vs 2.7% for long CMN, P=.139). A significantly higher proportion of patients treated with a long CMN were discharged to a skilled nursing facility (63.4% vs 56.1%, P=.042). The overall reoperation rate was also comparable, 4.7% and 3.4% in the short CMN and long CMN groups, respectively (P=.367). No difference was found between the 2 treatment modalities (short or long CMN) for the elderly population. Both implants had similar rates of reoperation and implant failure. There is a cost consideration, with increasing length of the nail corresponding to increased cost. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(5):304-309.].

The Hip and Femur Fracture Bundle: Preliminary Findings From a Tertiary Hospital

BACKGROUND

The voluntary hip and femur fracture Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Advanced (BCPI-A) includes Diagnosis Related Groups (DRG) 480, 481, and 482, which include diverse and medically complex patients undergoing urgent inpatient surgery without optimization. Concern exists that this bundle is financially unfavorable for hospitals, and this study aimed to identify the costliest services.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a 12-month cohort of 32 consecutive patients in the DRG 480-482 bundle at our academic tertiary referral center. Cost of discharge disposition, readmission, and other variables were analyzed for all patients in the 90-day bundle.

RESULTS

Overall, a net financial gain averaging $2,028 per patient (range -$52,128 to +$30,199) was seen. Discharge to facilities (n = 19) resulted in higher costs than discharge to home (n = 11, P < .0001). Use of inpatient rehabilitation (n = 6) averaged a loss of $11,028 per patient and use of skilled nursing facilities (n = 15) averaged a loss of $7,250 per patient, compared to a gain of $15,011 for patients discharged home (n = 11). Episodes with readmission (n = 6) averaged a loss of only $1,390. Total index admission costs averaged $12,489 ± $2,235 per patient (range $9,329-$18,884) while post-inpatient cost averaged $30,150 per patient (range $4,803 - $77,768).

CONCLUSION

The BPCI-A hip and femur fracture bundle has a wide variability in costs, with the largest component in the post-acute care phase. Discharge home is favorable in the bundle while discharge to post-acute facilities leads to net losses. Institutions in this bundle need to develop multi-disciplinary teams to promote safe discharge home.

Cost Variation in Temporizing External Fixation of Tibial Plateau and Pilon Fractures: Is There Room to Improve?

INTRODUCTION

External fixator costs have been shown to be highly variable. Current information on external fixator costs and cost drivers is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the cost variation as well as the patient-, injury-, and surgeon-related cost drivers associated with temporizing external fixation constructs in tibial plateau and pilon fracture management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted to identify isolated tibial plateau and pilon fractures treated with temporizing external fixation from 2006-2018 at a level 1 trauma center. Inclusion criteria were based on fractures managed with primary external fixation, skeletal maturity, and isolated ipsilateral fracture fixation. Fracture patterns were identified radiographically using Schatzker, Weber, and OTA classification systems. Implant costs were determined using direct purchase price from the institution. The primary outcome was the external fixator total construct cost. Clinical covariates and secondary outcomes, namely unplanned reoperations, were extracted. Factors associated with cost (i.e. cost drivers) were identified via multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 319 patients were included in this study (121 tibial plateau and 198 pilon fractures). Mean plateau construct cost was $5,372.12 and mean pilon construct cost was $3,938.97. Implant cost correlated poorly with demographic (r²=0.01 & r²=0.01), injury-independent (r²<0.01 & r²=0.03), and fracture pattern classifications (r²=0.03 & r²=0.02). Traumatologists produced significantly cheaper implants for pilon fractures (p=0.05) but not for plateau fractures (p=0.85). There was no difference in construct cost or components between patients that underwent unplanned reoperation and those that did not for both tibial plateau (p>0.19) and pilon (p>0.06). Clamps contributed to 69.9% and 77.3% of construct costs for tibial plateau and pilon, respectively. The most cost-efficient fixation constructs for tibial plateau and pilon fractures were the following respectively: of 5 clamps, 2 bars, and 4 pins; and of 4 clamps, 2 bars, and 3 pins.

CONCLUSIONS

There is large cost variation in temporizing external fixation management. Cost drivers included surgeon bias and implant preference as well as use of external fixator clamps. Introducing construct standardization will contain healthcare spending without sacrificing patient outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III. Retrospective Cohort.

Occult fracture propagation in patients with isolated greater trochanteric fractures: patterns and management

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the degrees of occult intertrochanteric extension on MRI in patients with a greater trochanteric fracture on radiography or computer tomography (CT) and whether these patients undergo conservative or surgical management with hardware.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review was performed of 146 patients (104 females, 42 males, ages 33-102) who had follow-up MRI after identification of a greater trochanteric fracture without intertrochanteric extension on radiography or CT. Extent of intertrochanteric extension was recorded. Subsequently, EMR review was performed to see if patients underwent surgery. Specific note was made of hardware type. Analysis was performed to determine if there is a correlation with fracture type and surgical management as well as fracture type and age and gender.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients had horizontal greater trochanter fractures without intertrochanteric extension; none underwent surgery. Seventeen patients had a vertical fracture along the lateral femoral cortex; one underwent surgery. Thirty-three patients had a fracture with intertrochanteric extension less than 50% in the mid coronal plane; 21 underwent surgery. Forty patients had intertrochanteric extension greater than 50% in the midcoronal plane not contacting the medial cortex; 28 underwent surgery. Thirty-seven patients had fractures contacting the medial cortex; 28 underwent surgery. There was significant difference with fractures extending 50% or greater of the midline of the intertrochanteric region undergoing surgical management compared with fractures less than 50% (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

MRI identifies the presence and extent of occult intertrochanteric fractures in patients with greater trochanteric fractures. Description of intertrochanteric fractures on MRI helps determine the patient's treatment course and influence surgical decisions.

Outcomes and Cost Comparison Between Generic and Conventional Cephalomedullary Nails in the Treatment of Peritrochanteric Femur Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Although generic orthopaedic implants have been available for several years, there has been slow adoption of this cost-saving option. We hypothesize equivalent outcomes between generic and conventional cephalomedullary nails (CMN) in the treatment of peritrochanteric femur fractures.

METHODS

We evaluated 419 patients undergoing CMN for peritrochanteric femur fracture with a minimum 6-month follow-up. Demographic data, radiographic assessment, and clinical outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

Ninety patients were treated with generic implants and 329 patients with conventional implants. The overall complication rate was 7.0%, with a revision surgery rate of 5.4%. No significant differences were seen in demographic variables or surgical factors. Although there was an increased incidence of postoperative infections with conventional nails (P = 0.045), no significant differences were seen in other complications.

CONCLUSION

At our institution, generic nails cost approximately 38% less than their conventional counterparts. There seems to be no increased rate of implant-associated complications with the use of generic CMNs, although allowing for notable cost savings.

A Preferred Vendor Model Reduces the Costs of Sports Medicine Surgery

PURPOSE

To report on our institution's first year of experience with a preferred vendor program for implants and disposables for sports medicine surgery.

METHODS

Cost and utilization data for implants and disposables were analyzed for knee and shoulder sports medicine surgeries performed during the 2-year period including the 12 months preceding the start of the contract (contract year 0 [CY0] and the first 12 months of the contract period (CY1). The costs of grafts and biological therapies were excluded. Utilization of the preferred vendor's products, operative time, and per-case costs were compared between the 2 time periods and adjusted for patient factors and case mix.

RESULTS

Utilization of the preferred vendor's shavers (0% to 94%, P < .001) and radiofrequency ablation wands (0% to 91%, P < .001) increased significantly in CY1 (n = 5,068 cases) compared with CY0 (n = 5,409 cases), with a small but significant increase in use of the preferred vendor's implants (64% to 67%, P = .023). There was no significant difference in mean operative time between CY0 and CY1 (P = .485). Mean total per-case implant and disposable costs decreased by 12% (P < .001) in CY1 versus CY0.

CONCLUSION

Our institution was able to reduce the costs of sports medicine surgery with the implementation of a preferred single-vendor program for implants and disposables. This program had widespread surgeon adoption and did not have any detrimental effect on operating room efficiency.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective comparative study.

Metabolic Shock in Elderly Pertrochanteric or Intertrochanteric Surgery. Comparison of Three Surgical Methods. Is there a Much Safer?

Introduction

Trochanteric fractures are a major trauma in the elderly population and represent a significant part of public health spending. Various fixation devices are used as treatment for these fractures. This study aimed to evaluate three surgical methods in the treatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures.

Materials and methods

From January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2014, 86 patients were divided into 3 groups. Fifteen patients were treated with osteosynthesis by reamed intramedullary nailing (RIMN), 15 patients were treated with unreamed intramedullary nailing (UIMN), and 13 patients were treated with dynamic hip screw (DHS) plate osteosynthesis. All patients were >75 years of age. They were evaluated with a clinical radiological follow-up and laboratory examination (LDH, CPK, IL-1-B, IL-8, TNF-α, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, D-dimer, fibrinogen, ESR, CRP, and procalcitonin).

Results

IL-8, TNF-α, fibrinogen, D-dimer and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein levels were higher in the DHS group compared with the other two groups at 1 month after surgery (P<0.05). LDH, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels were higher in the DHS group compared with the other two groups at 3 months after surgery (P<0.05). From 3 to 6 months after surgery, the TNF-α level was high in the DHS and RIMN groups (P<0.05). Infection markers did not demonstrate a difference among the 3 groups. Twelve patients died during the 12-month follow-up. Regardless of the method used, morbidity and mortality are linked to enticement and comorbidities rather than surgery within 48 hours after the trauma.

Conclusions

From our study, we can affirm that the values of cytokines and interleukins observed remain high during the 12-month follow up, regardless of whatever fixation devices or surgery type was performed within 48 hours of injury. Inflammatory markers are higher in patients in the DHS group. This can probably be explained by the fact that DHS technique is performed by open surgery, and this can create a higher inflammation of soft tissue. Mortality is reduced in the first 30 days after surgery if patients are mobilized early. Therefore, mortality in our study population of patients aged >75 years is linked more to the chronic inflammatory state and comorbidities, rather than fixation device or surgical type used.

However, future studies are needed to answer further questions that go beyond the scope of our study.

Does Implant Selection Affect the Inpatient Cost of Care for Geriatric Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures?

Introduction

Geriatric intertrochanteric (IT) femur fractures are a common and costly injury, expected to increase in incidence as the population ages. Understanding cost drivers will be essential for risk adjustments, and the surgeon's choice of implant may be an opportunity to reduce the overall cost of care. This study was purposed to identify the relationship between implant type and inpatient cost of care for isolated geriatric IT fractures.

Methods

A retrospective review of IT fractures from 2013-2017 was performed at an academic level I trauma center. Construct type and AO/OTA fracture classifications were obtained radiographically, and patient variables were collected via the electronic medical record (EMR). The total cost of care was obtained via time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC). Multivariable linear regression and goodness-of-fit analyses were used to determine correlation between implant costs, inpatient cost of care, construct type, patient characteristics, and injury characteristics.

Results

Implant costs ranged from $765.17 to $5,045.62, averaging $2,699, and were highest among OTA 31-A3 fracture patterns (p < 0.01). Implant cost had a positive linear association with overall inpatient cost of care (p < 0.01), but remained highly variable (r² = 0.16). Total cost of care ranged from $9,129.18 to $64,210.70, averaging $19,822, and patients receiving a sliding hip screw (SHS) had the lowest mean total cost of care at $17,077, followed by short and long intramedullary nails ($19,314 and $21,372, respectively). When construct type and fracture pattern were compared to total cost, 31-A1 fracture pattern treated with SHS had significantly lower cost than 31-A2 and 31-A3 and less variation in cost.

Conclusion

The cost of care for IT fractures is poorly understood and difficult to determine. With alternative payment models on the horizon, implant selection should be utilized as an opportunity to decrease costs and increase the value of care provided to patients.

Level of Evidence

Diagnostic Level IV.

Establishing a Geriatric Hip Fracture Program at a Level 1 Community Trauma Center

BACKGROUND

Traditional care of patients with geriatric hip fracture has been fragmented with patients admitted under various specialty services and to different units within a hospital. This produces inconsistent care and leads to varying outcomes that can be associated with increased length of stay, delays in time from admission to surgery, and higher readmission rates.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to describe the process taken to establish a successful geriatric hip fracture program (GFP) and the initial results observed in a single institution after its implementation.

METHODS

All patients 60 years or older, with an osteoporotic hip fracture sustained from a low energy mechanism (defined as a fall from 3-ft height or less), were included in our program. Fracture patterns include femoral neck, intertrochanteric, pertrochanteric, and subtrochanteric femur fractures including displaced, nondisplaced, and periprosthetic fractures. Preprogram data included all patients admitted from January 1, 2012, through December 31, 2014; postprogram data were collected on patients admitted between May 1, 2016, and May 1, 2018.

RESULTS

Demographic characteristics of the populations were similar. After the GFP was implemented, the proportion of patients who were treated surgically within 24 and 48 hours increased. The average number of hours between admission and surgery significantly reduced from 35.2 to 23.2 hours. Overall length of stay was decreased by 1.8 days and readmission within 30 days of discharge was lower. Reasons for readmission were similar in both timeframes. The rate of inpatient death was similar in the two groups. Mortality within 30 days of surgery appeared somewhat higher in the post-GFP period.

CONCLUSION

Our program found that, with the utilization of a multidisciplinary approach, we could positively influence the care of patients with geriatric hip fracture through the implementation of evidence-based practice guidelines. In the first 2 years after initiation of the GFP, our institution saw a decrease in time from admission to surgery, length of stay, and blood transfusion requirements.

Outcome of intramedullary nailing treatment for intertrochanteric femoral fractures

INTRODUCTION

The OTA/AO type 31 A3 intertrochanteric fracture has a transverse or reverse oblique fracture at the lesser trochanteric level, which accentuates the varus compressive stress in the region of the fracture and the implant. Intramedullary fixation using different types of nails is commonly preferred. The purpose of this study is to evaluate intertrochanteric femoral fractures with intramedullary nail treatment in regard to surgical procedure, complications, and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

From one level 1 trauma center, 216 consecutive adult intertrochanteric femoral fractures (OTA/AO type 31 A3) were retrospectively identified with intramedullary nail fixation from 2004 through 2013. Of these, 193 patients (58.5% female) met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 70 years (range 19-96 years).

RESULTS

Cephalomedullary nails were utilized in 176 and reconstruction nails in 17 patients. After the index procedure, 86% healed uneventfully. Nonunion development was observed in 6% and 5% had an unscheduled reoperation due to implant or fixation failure. Active smoking was reported in 16.6%. Current smokers had an increased nonunion risk compared to those who do not currently smoke (15.6% vs. 4.3%; p = 0.016). The femoral neck angle averaged 128.0° ± 5°. Fixation failure occurred in 11.1% of patients with a neck-shaft-angle < 125° compared to 2.6% (4/155) of patients with a neck-shaft angle ≥125° (p = 0.021). Patients treated with a reconstruction nail required a second surgical intervention in 23.5%, which was no different compared to 25.0% in the cephalomedullary group (p = 0.893). In the cephalomedullary group, 4.5% developed a nonunion compared to 23.5% in the reconstruction group (p = 0.002). Painful hardware led to hardware removal in 8.8%. All of them were treated with a cephalomedullary device (p = 0.180). During the last office visit, two-thirds of the patients reported no or only mild pain but most patients had reduced hip range of motion.

CONCLUSION

Intramedullary nailing is a reliable surgical technique when performed with adequate reduction. Varus reduction with a neck-shaft angle < 125° resulted in an increase in fixation failures. Patient and implant factors affected nonunion formation. Smoking increased nonunion formation. Utilization of a cephalomedullary device reduced the nonunion rate, but had higher rates of painful prominent hardware compared to reconstruction nailing.

Preferred Single-Vendor Program for Total Joint Arthroplasty Implants: Surgeon Adoption, Outcomes, and Cost Savings

BACKGROUND

In total joint arthroplasty, variation in implant use can be driven by vendor relationships, surgeon preference, and technological advancements. Our institution developed a preferred single-vendor program for primary hip and knee arthroplasty. We hypothesized that this initiative would decrease implant costs without compromising performance on quality metrics.

METHODS

The utilization of implants from the preferred vendor was evaluated for the first 12 months of the contract (September 1, 2017, to August 31, 2018; n = 4,246 cases) compared with the prior year (September 1, 2016, to August 31, 2017; n = 3,586 cases). Per-case implant costs were compared using means and independent-samples t tests. Performance on quality metrics, including 30-day readmission, 30-day surgical site infection (SSI), and length of stay (LOS), was compared using multivariable-adjusted regression models.

RESULTS

The utilization of implants from the preferred vendor increased from 50% to 69% (p < 0.001), with greater use of knee implants than hip implants from the preferred vendor, although significant growth was seen for both (from 62% to 81% for knee, p < 0.001; and from 38% to 58% for hip, p < 0.001). Adoption of the preferred-vendor initiative was greatest among low-volume surgeons (from 22% to 87%; p < 0.001) and lowest among very high-volume surgeons (from 61% to 62%; p = 0.573). For cases in which implants from the preferred vendor were utilized, the mean cost per case decreased by 23% in the program's first year (p < 0.001), with an associated 11% decrease in the standard deviation. Among all cases, there were no significant changes with respect to 30-day readmission (p = 0.449) or SSI (p = 0.059), while mean LOS decreased in the program's first year (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The creation of a preferred single-vendor model for hip and knee arthroplasty implants led to significant cost savings and decreased cost variability within the program's first year. Higher-volume surgeons were less likely to modify their implant choice than were lower-volume surgeons. Despite the potential learning curve associated with changes in surgical implants, there was no difference in short-term quality metrics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Radiographic cortical thickness parameters as predictors of rotational alignment in proximal femur fractures: A cadaveric study

Radiographic assessment tools such as the cortical step sign (CSS) or the diameter difference sign (DDS) aim to identify clinically relevant rotational malalignment after long bone fracture fixation. We aimed to analyze the effect of rotational malalignment on CSS and DDS parameters in a subtrochanteric fracture model and to construct a prognostic model to identify clinically relevant rotational malalignment. A subtrochanteric transverse osteotomy was set in human femora. Rotation was set stepwise from 0° to 30° in internal and external rotation. Images were obtained using a C-arm and transferred for measuring the medial cortical thickness (MCT), lateral cortical thickness (LCT), femoral diameter (FD) in AP and the anterior cortical thickness (ACT) as well as the posterior cortical thickness (PCT) and the FD of the proximal and the distal main fragment. There were significant differences between the various levels of rotation for each of the absolute values of the evaluated variables. MCT, PCT and FD (AP & lat.) were the most affected parameters. In internal rotation, the MCT, PCT and the FD were the most affected variables. The parameters with the highest correlation with femoral rotation were ACT, PCT and FD. A model combining ACT, LCT, PCT and FD AP was most suitable model in identifying rotational malalignment. The best prediction of clinically relevant rotational malalignment was obtained with the FD and the PCT. The CSS and the DDS are promising tools for detecting rotational deformities of the proximal femur and should be used intra- and postoperatively. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.

The Coming Hip and Femur Fracture Bundle: A New Inpatient Risk Stratification Tool for Care Providers

INTRODUCTION

In response to increasing health-care costs, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has initiated several programs to transition from a fee-for-service model to a value-based care model. One such voluntary program is Bundled Payments for Care Improvement Advanced (BPCI Advanced) which includes all hip and femur fractures that undergo operative fixation. The purpose of this study was to analyze the current cost and resource utilization of operatively fixed (nonarthroplasty) hip and femur fracture procedure bundle patients at a single level 1 trauma center within the framework of a risk stratification tool (Score for Trauma Triage in the Geriatric and Middle-Aged [STTGMA]) to identify areas of high utilization before our hospitals transition to bundle period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cohort of Medicare-eligible patients discharged with the Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) codes 480 to 482 (hip and femur fractures requiring surgical fixation) from a level 1 trauma center between October 2014 and September 2016 was evaluated and assigned a trauma triage risk score (STTGMA score). Patients were stratified into groups based on these scores to create a minimal-, low-, moderate-, and high-risk cohort. Length of stay (LOS), discharge location, need for Intensive Care Unit (ICU)/Step Down Unit (SDU) care, inpatient complications, readmission within 90 days, and inpatient admission costs were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-three patients with a mean age of 81.5 (10.1) years met inclusion criteria. The mean LOS was 8.0 (4.2) days, with high-risk patients having 4 days greater LOS than lower risk patients. The mean number of total complications was 0.9 (0.8) with a significant difference between risk groups (P = .029). The mean total cost of admission for the entire cohort of patients was US$25,446 (US$9725), with a nearly US$9000 greater cost for high-risk patients compared to the low-risk patients. High-cost areas of care included room/board, procedure, and radiology.

DISCUSSION

High-risk patients were more likely to have longer and more costly admissions with average index admission costs nearly US$9000 more than the lower risk patient cohorts. These high-risk patients were also more likely to develop inpatient complications and require higher levels of care.

CONCLUSION

This analysis of a 2-year cohort of patients who would qualify for the BPCI Advanced hip and femur procedure bundle demonstrates that the STTGMA tool can be used to identify high-risk patients who fall outside the bundle.

Is the Best Plate a Nail? A Review of 3230 Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures of the Proximal Femur

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the functional outcomes, revision, and mortality rates of 3 implants used for unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures; the sliding hip screw (SHS), with or without a trochanteric stabilization plate (TSP); and a cephalomedullary nail (CMN).

DESIGN

Multicentre National Prospective Cohort Study.

SETTING

Northern Ireland.

PATIENT/PARTICIPANTS

Patients were identified from a prospective database. Fractures were classified according to OTA/AO A31A2.2, A2.3, and A3. All patients had a minimum of 12 months of follow-up.

INTERVENTION

Patients received either an SHS, an SHS in combination with a TSP, or a CMN. Implant choice was at the discretion of the operating surgeon.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Primary outcome was 12-month mortality analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Secondary outcomes included 12-month functional status using a validated score and all time revision of implants for any reason.

RESULTS

In total, 3230 patients met the inclusion criteria (2474 SHS, 158 SHS + TSP, and 598 CMN). CMN use increased over time, with concomitant reduction in SHS use. There was no significant difference in functional outcomes at 12 months (analysis of variance, P = 0.177). Although men were significantly younger, they were at a higher risk of 12-month mortality. CMNs had statistically significantly lower 12-month mortality rates (P = 0.0148). The highest revision rate (4.04%) was seen in patients treated with SHS alone (P = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a CMN in unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures conveys the best results in functional outcomes, 12-month mortality, and has lower revision rates compared with an SHS ± TSP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

The Role of Radiographs and Office Visits in the Follow-Up of Healed Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures: An Economic Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role and the necessity of radiographs and office visits obtained during follow-up of intertrochanteric hip injuries.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Two level I trauma centers.

PATIENTS

Four hundred sixty-five elderly patients who were surgically treated for an intertrochanteric fracture of the femur at 2 level I trauma centers between January 2009 and August 2014 were retrospectively identified from orthopaedic trauma databases.

INTERVENTION

Analysis of all healed intertrochanteric hip fractures, including demographic characteristics, quality of reduction, time of healing, number of office visits, number of radiographs obtained, and each radiograph for fracture alignment, implant position or any pathological changes.

RESULTS

The surgical fixation of 465 fractures included 155 short nails (33%), 232 long nails (50%), 69 sliding hip screw devices (15%), 7 trochanteric stabilizing plates (1.5%), and 2 proximal femur locking plates (0.5%). The average fracture healing time was 12.8 weeks and the average follow-up was 81.2 weeks. Radiographs of any patient obtained after the fracture had healed did not reveal any changes, including fracture alignment or implant position and hardware failure. In 9 patients, pathological changes, including arthritis (3), avascular necrosis (3), and ectopic ossification (3) were noted. The average number of elective office visits and radiographs obtained after the fracture had healed were 2.8 (range: 1-8) and 2.6 (range: 1-8), respectively. According to Medicare payments to the institution, these radiographs and office visits account for a direct cost of $360.81 and $192, respectively, per patient.

CONCLUSION

The current study strongly suggests that there is a negligible role for radiographs and office visits during the follow-up of a well-healed hip fracture when there is documented evidence of radiographic and clinical healing with acceptable fracture alignment and implant position. Implementation of this simple measure will help in reducing the cost of care and inconvenience to elderly patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

An Orthopedic-Hospitalist Comanaged Hip Fracture Service Reduces Inpatient Length of Stay

Introduction:

Hip fractures are common in the elderly patients with an incidence of 320 000 fractures/year in the United States, representing a health-care cost of US$9 to 20 billion. Hip fracture incidence is projected to increase dramatically. Hospitals must modify clinical models to accommodate this growing burden. Comanagement strategies are reported in the literature, but few have addressed orthopedic-hospitalist models. An orthopedic-hospitalist comanagement (OHC) service was established at our hospital to manage hip fracture patients. We sought to determine whether the OHC (1) improves the efficiency of hip fracture management as measured by inpatient length of stay (LOS) and time to surgery (TTS) and (2) whether our results are comparable to those reported in hip fracture comanagement literature.

Methods:

A comparative retrospective–prospective cohort study of patients older than 60 years with an admitting diagnosis of hip fracture was conducted to compare inpatient LOS and TTS for hip fracture patients admitted 10 months before (n = 45) and 10 months after implementation (n = 54) of the OHC at a single academic hospital. Secondary outcome measures included percentage of patients taken to surgery within 24 or 48 hours, 30-day readmission rates, and mortality. Outcomes were compared to comanagement study results published in MEDLINE-indexed journals.

Results:

Patient cohort demographics and comorbidities were similar. Inpatient LOS was reduced by 1.6 days after implementation of the OHC (P = .01) without an increase in 30-day readmission rates or mortality. Time to surgery was insignificantly reduced from 27.4 to 21.9 hours (P = .27) and surgery within 48 hours increased from 86% to 96% (P = .15).

Discussion:

The OHC has improved efficiency of hip fracture management as judged by significant reductions in LOS with a trend toward reduced TTS at our institution.

Conclusion:

Orthopedic-hospitalist comanagement may represent an effective strategy to improve hip fracture management in the setting of a rapidly expanding patient population.

New classification focusing on the relationship between the attachment of the iliofemoral ligament and the course of the fracture line for intertrochanteric fractures

PURPOSE

There are various types of intertrochanteric fractures that are unstable pertrochanteric fractures of the hip. The aim of this study was to develop a systematic and comprehensive classification of intertrochanteric fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study enrolled 74 patients with intertrochanteric fractures treated by us between 2012 and 2015. The fractures were classified using 3D-CT images taken immediately after the fractures occurred based on the course of the lateral fracture line (LFL) that extends through the lateral femoral cortex distal to the vastus ridge of the greater trochanter in the intertrochanteric area. Furthermore, the presence or absence of additional typical fractures was also studied. Then, 4 orthopedic specialists examined the 3D-CT images of 20 patients randomly selected from the 74 patients to evaluate both the inter-rater and intra-rater agreement levels.

RESULTS

Intertrochanteric fractures were classified into three types according to the LFL patterns. Type I (41.9%), the Lateral Wall Pattern, has a LFL that extends towards the lateral fiber bundle attachment area of the iliofemoral ligament. Type II (24.3%), the Transverse Pattern, has a LFL that extends towards the medial bundle attachment area. Type III (33.8%), the Reverse Oblique Pattern, has a LFL that extends between the lateral and medial fiber bundle area of the iliofemoral ligament. Each type showed characteristic displacement and was associated with various combinations of typical fractures (fracture across the intertrochanteric line, posteromedial fragment, including the lesser trochanter, posterolateral fragment posterior to the femoral greater trochanter, and banana-shaped big fragment, including both the greater trochanter and the lesser trochanter). The mean κ values for the interobserver and intraobserver agreement levels were 0.77 (0.70-0.85) and 0.76 (0.70-0.85), respectively, which were considered substantial agreement levels.

CONCLUSION

We believe our new classification is a useful communication tool for medical professionals in the diagnosis of fractures.

A retrospective analysis of the InterTan nail and proximal femoral nail anti-rotation-Asia in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures in the elderly

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of elderly patients undergoing surgery for treatment of unstable trochanteric fractures receiving either proximal femoral nails anti-rotation-Asia (PFNA-IIs) or InterTan nails (ITs).

METHODS

Between January 1, 2012, and June 31, 2015, 168 elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric femur fractures enrolled in this study. The only intervention was ITs or PFNA-IIs of the unstable trochanteric femur fractures. Follow-up was at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and yearly thereafter. Intraoperative variables and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Eight patients died, six were too infirmed for follow-up, and seven were lost during follow-up, leaving 147 patients meeting the criteria were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 20 months (range 16-26 months). Significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding local complications (IT, n = 10 vs. PFNA-II, n = 20), varus collapse of the head/neck or femoral shaft fractures at the tip of the nail (IT, n = 1 vs. PFNA-II, n = 8), femoral neck shortening (IT, 4.4 ± 1.1 mm vs. PFNA-II, 7.4 ± 2.4 mm), fracture healing time (IT, 14.7 ± 2.1 weeks vs. PFNA-II, 15.7 ± 2.4 weeks), femoral shaft fractures (IT, n = 0 vs. PFNA-II, n = 4), rotational loss of reduction (IT, n = 0 vs. PFNA-II, n = 9), lateral cortex fractures of the proximal femur or lateral greater trochanter fractures (IT, n = 8 vs. PFNA-II, n = 1), operative time (IT, 71.9 ± 6.8 min vs. PFNA-II, 52.3 ± 4.0 min), intraoperative blood loss (IT, 190.6 ± 6.0 mL vs. PFNA-II, 180.9 ± 10.8 mL), fluoroscopy time (IT, 5.0 ± 0.48 min vs. PFNA-II, 2.8 ± 0.33 min), hospital stay (IT, 9.65 ± 0.95 days vs. PFNA-II, 8.58 ± 0.93 days), cut-out (IT, n = 0 vs. PFNA-II, n = 6), and tip-apex distance (IT, 26.7 ± 0.91 mm vs. PFNA-II, 23.2 ± 1.22 mm). No significant differences existed for the other observation indexes (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The IT nail may have more advantage for patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the femur. However, for those complicated with lateral greater trochanter fractures, lateral cortex fractures of the proximal femurs, or unfit for surgery, the PFNA-II nail could be a good option. In addition, a large-sample, multicenter observational study is required for evaluation of its long-term efficacy, and optimal management strategies for specific unstable fracture patterns, different sorts of bone quality, and different levels of patient demand.

Complication Risk After Treatment of Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures in the Medicare Population

The study evaluated the incidence of and complications associated with the use of an intramedullary nail vs open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with a sliding compression hip screw and plate in treating intertrochanteric fractures. The authors hypothesized that the biomechanically stronger and less invasive intramedullary nail would have superior results and fewer complications compared with ORIF. Patients followed for up to 1 year postoperatively were identified from the 5% nationwide sample of Medicare administrative claims data (1998-2007) using the corresponding International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, Clinical Modification, codes 820.21 and 820.31. There were 9157 patients treated with intramedullary nails and 27,687 treated with compression screw and plate fixation. Intertrochanteric hip fractures treated with an intramedullary nail during this period increased from 3.3% to 63.1% compared with ORIF. Patients treated with an intramedullary nail had a higher adjusted risk of pulmonary embolism at 90 days (P=.003) and a higher risk of mortality at 1 year (P<.001) compared with those treated with ORIF. Patients who underwent intramedullary nailing during 2006 to 2007 had a lower adjusted risk of conversion to total hip replacement at 1 year (P=.037) compared with those who had ORIF. Over the decade of the study, intramedullary nail usage increased 59.8% compared with ORIF. Increased use of intramedullary nails compared with ORIF has not shown improved outcomes or decreased complications in patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures. The increased use of intramedullary nails for intertrochanteric hip fractures appears to be multifactorial, including the less invasive nature of the surgery and increased experience with the closed surgical technique.

Clinical and Radiologic Outcomes among Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty, Compression Hip Screw and Proximal Femur Nail Antirotation in Treating Comminuted Intertrochanteric Fractures

Purpose

In comminuted intertrochanteric fractures, various operative options have been introduced. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there were differences in clinical and radiologic outcomes among bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BH), compression hip screw (CHS) and proximal femur nail antirotation (PFNA) in treating comminuted intertrochanteric fractures (AO/OTA classification, A2 [22, 23])

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated total 150 patients (BH, 50; CHS, 50; PFNA, 50) who were operated due to intertrochanteric fractures from March 2010 to December 2012 and were older than 65 years at the time of surgery. We compared these three groups for radiologic and clinical outcomes at 12 months postoperatively, including Harris Hip Score, mobility (Koval stage), visual analogue scale and radiologic limb length discrepancy (shortening).

Results

There was no statistical significance among three groups in clinical outcomes including Harris Hip Score, mobility (Koval stage), visual analogue scale. However, there was significant differences in radiologic limb discrepancy in plain radiographs at 12 months postoperatively (radiologic shortening: BH, 2.3 mm; CHS, 5.1 mm; PFNA, 3.0 mm; P=0.000).

Conclusion

There were no clinical differences among BH, PFNA, and CHS in this study. However, notable limb length shortening could be originated during fracture healing in osteosynthesis, compared to arthroplasty (BH<PFNA<CHS).

Sliding hip screw versus sliding helical blade for intertrochanteric fractures

The spiral blade modification of the Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) was designed for superior biomechanical fixation in the osteoporotic femoral head. Our objective was to compare clinical outcomes and in particular the incidence of loss of fixation.

In a series of 197 consecutive patients over the age of 50 years treated with DHS-blades (blades) and 242 patients treated with conventional DHS (screw) for AO/OTA 31.A1 or A2 intertrochanteric fractures were identified from a prospectively compiled database in a level 1 trauma centre. Using propensity score matching, two groups comprising 177 matched patients were compiled and radiological and clinical outcomes compared. In each group there were 66 males and 111 females. Mean age was 83.6 (54 to 100) for the conventional DHS group and 83.8 (52 to 101) for the blade group.

Loss of fixation occurred in two blades and 13 DHSs. None of the blades had observable migration while nine DHSs had gross migration within the femoral head before the fracture healed. There were two versus four implant cut-outs respectively and one side plate pull-out in the DHS group. There was no significant difference in mortality and eventual walking ability between the groups. Multiple logistic regression suggested that poor reduction (odds ratio (OR) 11.49, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.45 to 90.9, p = 0.021) and fixation by DHS (OR 15.85, 95%CI 2.50 to 100.3, p = 0.003) were independent predictors of loss of fixation.

The spiral blade design may decrease the risk of implant migration in the femoral head but does not reduce the incidence of cut-out and reoperation. Reduction of the fracture is of paramount importance since poor reduction was an independent predictor for loss of fixation regardless of the implant being used.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:398–404.