Bone Cement Implantation Syndrome: A Rare Disaster Following Cemented Hip Arthroplasties-Clinical Considerations Supported by Case Studies

Cardiopulmonary collapse in frail patients treated with cemented and uncemented hemiarthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Peri-operative cardiopulmonary collapse (CPC) poses an increased risk of in-hospital mortality, especially in frail patients. Bone Cement Implantation Syndrome (BCIS) is CPC following, cemented, arthroplasty, characterized by hypoxia and/or hypotension. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the association between cemented hemiarthroplasty and CPC, in patients with a femoral neck fracture (FNF) and increased pre-operative risk, and identify other risk factors for cardiopulmonary collapse.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with a FNF treated with a cemented or uncemented hemiarthroplasty, aged ≥ 80 years, with ASA score ≥ 3 and ≥ 1 cardiac or pulmonal comorbidity. CPC was defined as hypoxia/hypotension grade ≥ 2 according to Donaldson's criteria. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for confounding in the relation between cemented hemiarthroplasty and CPC, and to identify other risk factors for CPC in patients with a cemented hemiarthroplasty.

RESULTS

The incidence of CPC was 51.1% in 221 cemented hemiarthroplasty patients compared to 23.3% in 73 uncemented hemiarthroplasty patients (p < 0.001). The use of cement increased the risk for CPC almost threefold (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.46-5.64). Preoperative reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (aOR 3.03, 95% CI 1.50-6.14) was another independent risk factor for CPC.

CONCLUSION

Cementation increases the risk of CPC in frail FNF patients treated with hemiarthroplasty. Emphasis on euvolemia and avoidance of excessive pressurization, and careful consideration of an indicated cemented hemiarthroplasty in frail hip fracture patients may be advised for patients with an increased preoperative risk for BCIS.

Concurrent effects of high-intensity interval training and vitamin D supplementation on bone metabolism among women diagnosed with osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is often responsible for bone fragility and increased fracture risk due to the micro-architectural deterioration of bone tissue. In addition to nutritional supplements, exercise is considered an adjunct factor in safeguarding bone health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 16-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral density (BMD) in women with osteoporosis.

TRIAL DESIGN

This study used a four-arm pretest-posttest experimental randomized controlled design.

METHODS

One hundred twenty sedentary women aged (30-50 years), diagnosed with osteoporosis were recruited in this study. Patients were randomly classified into four groups with 30 patients in each group: control group (normal daily activities), exercise group (HIIT-exercise for 16 weeks), Vitamin D group (vitamin D 800IU/ day for 16 weeks), and concurrent group (HIIT exercise plus vitamin D for 16 weeks). Anthropometric measurements, BMD, and serum levels of vitamin 25-(OH) D, Osteocalcin, s-BAP, and calcium were estimated in all participants before and after exercise training.

RESULTS

Serum samples revealed that bone resorption markers, osteocalcin, total calcium, s-BAP, and vitamin 25(OH) D significantly improved in all groups; there was greater improvement in the HIIT training-vitamin D group than in the HIIT training, vitamin D, and control groups. Furthermore, the HIIT training-vitamin D group showed improvements in hip (right and left) and lumbar spine BMD than the HIIT training, Vitamin D, and Control groups. BMD improvements correlated positively with serum osteocalcin levels and total calcium and negatively with BMI and s-BAP.

CONCLUSIONS

Sixteen weeks of HIIT and vitamin D consumption showed greater benefits for BMD levels in women with osteoporosis than either vitamin D consumption or HIIT training alone. Therefore, HIIT plus vitamin D consumption may be a strategic option to prevent BMD reduction with aging or to slow demineralization.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was retrospectively registered at 'ClinicalTrials.gov PRS' under the trial identifier NCT06624657, dated 1/10/2024.

Comparative outcomes of proximal femur intramedullary nailing vs. cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty for treating intertrochanteric fractures in patients aged 75 and older: analysis of risk factors for postoperative all-cause mortality

BACKGROUND

As the population continues to age, the occurrence of intertrochanteric femoral fractures (IFFs) has steadily increased. The main aims of this investigation were to evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes, ambulatory ability, overall survival, and all-cause mortality between two cephalic screws combined with compression proximal-femoral intramedullary nailing internal fixation (IF) and long-stemmed cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty (LCHA) in patients aged 75 years and older. The secondary objective was to investigate the relative independent risk factors contributing to postoperative all-cause mortality.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 251 elderly patients with IFF who underwent IF or LCHA between January 2018 and October 2022. We employed generalized estimation equations along with univariate and multivariate analyses to examine the impact of various surgical interventions and other pertinent factors on postoperative ambulatory ability and all-cause mortality outcomes. Associations between sex, age, number of comorbidities, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, total blood transfusions, and mortality were analyzed via Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

The analysis included a cohort of 120 patients from the IF group and 121 patients from the LCHA group. Statistically significant differences were not observed in the clinical outcomes, ambulatory ability, overall survival, or all-cause mortality after surgical treatment between the groups receiving IF and LCHA (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, among patients aged ≥ 85 years, the IF group demonstrated a lower rate of all-cause mortality than the LCHA group did (p < 0.05). As age increases and the number of preoperative comorbidities and the amount of perioperative transfusion increase, the preoperative AST level decreases, which is associated with a greater risk of postoperative death. (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In elderly patients aged 75-84 years with intertrochanteric femur fractures, both internal fixation (IF) and long-stemmed cemented hemiarthroplasty (LCHA) are viable treatment options. However, for patients aged 85 years and older, IF is associated with a relatively lower postoperative all-cause mortality rate and should be prioritized as a treatment modality. Additionally, preoperative AST levels may serve as a valuable predictor of postoperative all-cause mortality in elderly patients undergoing surgery for intertrochanteric femur fractures.

An Innovative Assessment Framework for Remote Care in Orthopedics

Background/Objectives: Orthopedics is a medical specialty that is experiencing a significant increase in the volume of interventions due to an ageing population. By activating remote care pathways, orthopedic surgeons can contribute to improving environmental sustainability. The aim of this research is to develop assessment tools for remote care pathways in orthopedic surgery, inspired by advanced practices of international hospitals. Methods: The research methods consisted in identifying the key areas that make up the remote care pathways in orthopedic surgery and designing appropriate indicators to assess their sustainability. Their levels of achievement were designed by collecting from the literature the most advanced practices reported by hospitals worldwide. The practical validation of the developed model was performed at an orthopedic hospital. Results: Based on the recommendation of the College of Surgeons, we have identified four key areas: remote consultations in orthopedics, incentives for staff travel options, involvement of surgical patients, and minor surgical interventions. In each of these areas, we have designed an indicator, for which we have described the levels of achievement on a scale from 1 to 5. The indicators are also rated for their importance on a scale of 1 to 5, according to the extent to which they influence the achievement of the sustainability objectives. The practical implementation of the developed model at an orthopedic hospital has shown its suitability for the purpose of the research and its compatibility with the certifications held by the hospital. We computed the sustainability indicator in each area as the product between the achievement level and the importance of the indicator. The sum of the four indicators provides the global sustainability indicator. The fulfillment degree of the requirements related to remote care pathways in orthopedic surgery is obtained by reporting the actual value of the global sustainability indicator to the maximum value, which in the explored situation is 61.42%. To have high efficiency for improvement measures we have used the Eisenhower matrix. It is evidenced that the highest priority must be given to the indicator incentives for staff travel options. Conclusions: Implementation of the system in healthcare facilities promotes continuous improvement of remote care pathways in orthopedic surgery, improves environmental sustainability, and thereby contributes to reducing climate change.

Trends and Complications of Hip Fracture Fixation Among Early Career Orthopaedic Surgeons: An Analysis of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Part II Oral Examination Database

Background

Hip fractures are a major public health concern with a high mortality rate. Numerous risk factors for hip fracture have been identified, and efforts made to reduce complications and improve outcomes. This study aimed to assess recent trends in postoperative complications amongst early-career orthopaedic surgeons.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed surgical cases submitted to the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) for the Part II Oral Examination from 2013 to 2022. The database includes patient demographics and medical and surgical complications. Current Procedural Terminology codes reflecting operative fixation for hip fracture were selected. Data was split into two cohorts: 2013-2016 and 2017-2020. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify significant differences between cohorts.

Results

49,418 cases were analyzed. Compared to 2013-2016, 2017-2020 had a reduction in the overall medical complication rate (-1.49%, P = 0.0005), saw slight increases in congestive heart failure (+0.18%, P = 0.049), renal failure (+0.37%, P = 0.004), hypotension (+0.41%, P = 0.0007), and hypoxia (+0.41%, P = 0.0016). Minor decreases in myocardial infarction (-0.18%, P = 0.047) and pneumonia (-0.34%, P = 0.021) were noted. No differences occurred in confusion/delirium, deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism, and mortality. There were no significant differences in overall surgical complications. The 90-day readmission rate increased with time (+1.17%, P < 0.0001). Multivariable logistic regression identified a decrease in the likelihood of overall medical complications (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.92 [0.89, 0.96]; P < 0.0001). Decreases were noted for the likelihood of myocardial infarction (OR: 0.81 [0.68, 0.98]; P = 0.031), pneumonia (OR: 0.87 [0.78, 0.97]; P = 0.013), fracture (OR: 0.80 [0.69, 0.92]; P = 0.002), and recurrent/persistent/uncontrolled pain (OR: 0.72 [0.56, 0.92]; P = 0.008). The likelihood of renal failure (OR: 1.18 [1.04, 1.34]; P = 0.009) and readmission increased (OR: 1.14 [1.07, 1.20]; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study found little change in postoperative complication patterns over the past decade. These findings suggest that more efforts are needed to improve hip fracture care and outcomes.

Predicting periprosthetic joint infection in primary total knee arthroplasty: a machine learning model integrating preoperative and perioperative risk factors

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic joint infection leads to significant morbidity and mortality after total knee arthroplasty. Preoperative and perioperative risk prediction and assessment tools are lacking in Asia. This study developed the first machine learning model for individualized prediction of periprosthetic joint infection following primary total knee arthroplasty in this demographic.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 3,483 primary total knee arthroplasty (81 with periprosthetic joint infection) from 1998 to 2021 in a Chinese tertiary and quaternary referral academic center. We gathered 60 features, encompassing patient demographics, operation-related variables, laboratory findings, and comorbidities. Six of them were selected after univariate and multivariate analysis. Five machine learning models were trained with stratified 10-fold cross-validation and assessed by discrimination and calibration analysis to determine the optimal predictive model.

RESULTS

The balanced random forest model demonstrated the best predictive capability with average metrics of 0.963 for the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.920 for balanced accuracy, 0.938 for sensitivity, and 0.902 for specificity. The significant risk factors identified were long operative time (OR, 9.07; p = 0.018), male gender (OR, 3.11; p < 0.001), ASA > 2 (OR, 1.68; p = 0.028), history of anemia (OR, 2.17; p = 0.023), and history of septic arthritis (OR, 4.35; p = 0.030). Spinal anesthesia emerged as a protective factor (OR, 0.55; p = 0.022).

CONCLUSION

Our study presented the first machine learning model in Asia to predict periprosthetic joint infection following primary total knee arthroplasty. We enhanced the model's usability by providing global and local interpretations. This tool provides preoperative and perioperative risk assessment for periprosthetic joint infection and opens the potential for better individualized optimization before total knee arthroplasty.

Is Removal of Implants Mandatory Following Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Screw-Rod Stabilization Without Fusion for Mono-Segmental Thoracolumbar Fractures in Elderly Patients?

Purpose

Despite the lack of evidence, the current standard of care following posterior pedicle screw-rod stabilization for spinal trauma includes instrumentation removal. This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the necessity of implant removal in patients aged ≥65 years who underwent minimally invasive pedicle screw-rod fixation for AO type A and B thoracolumbar fractures.

Methods

We evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of 57 patients aged ≥65 years with mono-segmental AO type A and B thoracolumbar fractures treated with percutaneous short-segment pedicle screw fixation, and compared the two groups with and without hardware removal. Clinical outcomes included the visual analog scale score for back pain (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), residual chronic back pain (RCBP) and implant-related complications. Radiological parameters, such as the vertebral wedge angle (VWA), segmental kyphosis Cobb angle (SKCA), anterior edge height ratio (AEHR) and adjacent intervertebral height index (IHI), were measured.

Results

No significant differences were observed between the two groups in the mean VAS and ODI values at 12 months and final follow-up. The incidence of RCBP in the implant retention group (25.9%) was slightly higher than that in the implant removal group (20%). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups. Both groups showed correction loss over time. An increase in the segmental kyphosis Cobb angle only differed by 2.02° with no significant difference between the two groups at final follow-up (implant removal group A 4.15°, implant removal group 2.13°). However, whether the implant was removed or not, no statistically significant differences were found in the correction loss of SKCA, VWA, IHI, or AEHR between the two groups within the 12-month follow-up period.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that percutaneous short-segment pedicle screw fixation showed similar radiological and functional outcomes in patients aged ≥65 years, regardless of whether the implants were removed after fracture healing.

A rare presentation of bone cement implantation syndrome as hypertensive anaphylaxis: A diagnostic and management dilemma

BACKGROUND

Bone cement implantation syndrome characteristically involves acute alterations in the function of respiratory and cardiovascular systems. We present a case report of cement reaction with unusual presentation, that is, hypoxia, hypertension and tachycardia. A 74-year-old hypertensive male on regular medications sustained a slip and fall, presented with a right intertrochanteric neck of femur fracture, now posted for cemented hemiarthroplasty. Intraoperatively, after applying bone cement, the patient developed sweating, dyspnoea, bilateral wheezing and tachypnoea and desaturation of up to 80%-84%. Respiratory symptoms were associated with tachycardia (140-160 bpm) and hypertension (220/110 mm Hg). The surgeon was alerted about the event, the patient was reassured, and respiration was assisted with positive pressure ventilation with supplementation of 100% oxygen.

DISCUSSION

Several mechanisms have been proposed, such as the toxic effect of systemically absorbed methyl methacrylate, exothermic reaction, fat and marrow embolism, high marrow pressure during cementing and anaphylactic reaction. The administration of adrenaline, which can worsen the clinical picture, is the mainstay in managing anaphylaxis.

CONCLUSION

The association of hypertension and tachycardia with bone cement implantation syndrome, previously not reported, can have distinct pathomechanisms and cause a diagnostic and management dilemma.

Early Deep Venous Thrombosis After Hip Fracture Surgery in Patients in Pharmacological Prophylaxis

Background: Venous thromboembolism frequently complicates orthopedic surgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the overall incidence, site, and risk factors for venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery in DVT prophylaxis according to guidelines recommendations. Methods: Standard ultrasonography (CUS) was performed in the 5-6th postoperative day in all patients who underwent hip fracture surgery between 1 January and 31 December 2019. Pharmacological prophylaxis was started within 12 h from admission. In the first half of the year, dalteparin (5000 IU/day) was available while nadroparin (38 IU/kg until 3rd postoperative day and thereafter 57 IU/kg) was available in the second part of the year. Results: A total of 505 patients, 144 males and 361 females, with a mean age of 84 years, entered in the study. Post-operative DVT was found at screening ultrasonography in 121 patients (24%). Most involved distal veins (91) while proximal DVT occurred in 30. Two patients had not fatal pulmonary embolism (0.3%). Time to surgery (p = 0.0009) and ≥2 comorbidities (p = 0.0198) were independent predictive factors of DVT. Moreover, dalteparin prophylaxis was associated with a 1.7-times higher risk of developing a DVT compared to nadroparin. Conclusions: DVT occurs in 24% of patients after hip fracture surgery despite thromboprophylaxis. Time to surgery and ≥2 comorbidities were independent risk factors. The protective effects of nadroparin should be confirmed by a randomized trial. All patients with DVT were discharged with indication to anticoagulation for at least three months.

Key Considerations for Frail Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Surgery

Improving preoperative care for elderly patients with hip fractures is crucial for achieving the best outcomes. A multidisciplinary team that can improve overall care quality by addressing patient's medical conditions, analgesia, timely surgery, and early postoperative mobilization is required. This narrative review provides insights regarding the extent of preoperative optimization needed for hip fracture surgery.

Role of Serum Biomarkers in Differentiating Periprosthetic Joint Infections from Aseptic Failures after Total Hip Arthroplasties

Background/Objectives: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a disastrous complication after joint replacement procedures as the diagnosis remains a significant challenge. The objective of this study is to assess the accuracy and test the interdependency of the proposed compound serum biomarkers for the diagnosis of PJI after total hip arthroplasties (THA). Methods: From January 2019 to December 2023, 77 consecutive cases that underwent revision total hip arthroplasties (rTHA) were included in a single-retrospective, observational cohort study. A total of 32 arthroplasties were classified as having septic complications using the European Bone and Joint Infection Society (EBJIS) definition from 2021, while the other 45 cases were assigned as aseptic failures (AF). Results: In the univariate analysis between the two groups created, statistically significant differences (p < 0.005) were found for the following variables: time from primary arthroplasty to symptom onset (Time PA-SO), neutrophil count, Lymphocyte count, haematocrit level (HCT) and haemoglobin level (HGB), C-reactive protein (CRP), the neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and aggregate inflammation systemic index (AISI). The ROC curve analysis showed that the SII (sensitivity 90.6% and specificity 62.2%) and the NLR (sensitivity 84.4% and specificity 64.4%) are the most accurate biomarkers. The multivariate analysis confirmed that NLR > 2.63 (p = 0.006), PLR > 147 (p = 0.021), MLR > 0.31 (p = 0.028), SII > 605.31 (p = 0.002), SIRI > 83.34 (p = 0.024), and AISI > 834.86 (p = 0.011) are all closely related to PJI diagnosis independently. Conclusions: The proposed serum biomarkers can be correlated with PJI diagnosis with the reserve of relatively low specificities.

Machine Learning Prediction Model to Predict Length of Stay of Patients Undergoing Hip or Knee Arthroplasties: Results from a High-Volume Single-Center Multivariate Analysis

Background: The growth of arthroplasty procedures requires innovative strategies to reduce inpatients' hospital length of stay (LOS). This study aims to develop a machine learning prediction model that may aid in predicting LOS after hip or knee arthroplasties. Methods: A collection of all the clinical notes of patients who underwent elective primary or revision arthroplasty from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019 was performed. The hospitalization was classified as "short LOS" if it was less than or equal to 6 days and "long LOS" if it was greater than 7 days. Clinical data from pre-operative laboratory analysis, vital parameters, and demographic characteristics of patients were screened. Final data were used to train a logistic regression model with the aim of predicting short or long LOS. Results: The final dataset was composed of 1517 patients (795 "long LOS", 722 "short LOS", p = 0.3196) with a total of 1541 hospital admissions (729 "long LOS", 812 "short LOS", p < 0.001). The complete model had a prediction efficacy of 78.99% (AUC 0.7899). Conclusions: Machine learning may facilitate day-by-day clinical practice determination of which patients are suitable for a shorter LOS and which for a longer LOS, in which a cautious approach could be recommended.

Correlation between Charlson comorbidity index and surgical prognosis in elderly patients with femoral neck fractures: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

Femoral neck fractures (FNF) are known to have significant morbidity and mortality rates. Multiple chronic conditions (MCC) are defined as the presence of two or more chronic diseases that greatly affect the quality of life in older adults. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of MCC and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) on surgical outcomes in patients with FNF.

METHODS

Patients with FNF who underwent joint replacement surgery were selected for this study. Patients who had two or more diseases simultaneously were divided into two groups: the MCC group and the non-MCC (NMCC) group. The CCI was calculated to assess the severity of patients' comorbidities in the MCC group. Baseline data, surgical details, and prognosis-related indicators were analyzed and compared between the two patient groups. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between CCI and length of hospital stay, Harris score, skeletal muscle index (SMI), and age. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the risk factors for mortality in FNF patients at 1 and 5 years after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 103 patients were included in the MCC group, while the NMCC group consisted of 40 patients. However, the patients in the MCC group were found to be older, had a higher incidence of sarcopenia, and lower SMI values (p < 0.001). Patients in the MCC group had longer hospitalization times, lower Harris scores, higher intensive care unit (ICU) admission rates, and higher complication rates (p = 0.045, p = 0.035, p = 0.019, p = 0.010). Spearman correlation analysis revealed that CCI was positively correlated with hospitalization and age (p < 0.001, p < 0.001), while it was negatively correlated with Harris score and SMI value (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that MCC patients had higher 1-year and 5-year mortality rates. Hospitalization time was identified as a risk factor for death in FNF patients 1 year after joint replacement (p < 0.001), whereas CCI and age were identified as risk factors for death 5 years after surgery (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis results showed that the difference in death time between the two groups of patients with MCC and NMCC was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Cox proportional hazard model analysis showed that CCI, age and SMI were risk factors affecting patient death.

CONCLUSION

The surgical prognosis of patients with MCC, CCI and FNF is related. The higher the CCI, the worse the patient's function and the higher the long-term risk of death.

Comparative assessment of bone cement implantation syndrome in cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty: impact in patients with and without preexisting heart disease

Background

With the increasing incidence of hip fractures in older adults, hip replacement with a cemented femoral stem has become a viable treatment option. However, concerns regarding potential complications, particularly bone cement implantation syndrome (BCIS), especially in patients with preexisting medical conditions, have prompted orthopedic surgeons to explore alternative approaches.

Objective

The research question of this retrospective study is whether BCIS incidence in patients with preexisting heart disease undergoing cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty is higher than that of patients without preexisting heart disease.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 311 patients undergoing cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty, including 188 without preexisting heart disease and 123 with heart disease. Anesthetic records were reviewed to assess parameters related to BCIS. BCIS severity was graded systematically, emphasizing key metrics, such as hypotension, arterial desaturation, and the loss of consciousness.

Results

Among the patients, no perioperative deaths occurred. Grade 1 BCIS was observed in 13 patients (4.18 %), without instances of grade 2 or 3. Notably, grade 1 BCIS was observed in only 2 patients with preexisting heart disease (1.63%) and 11 patients (5.85%) without preexisting heart disease.

Conclusion

BCIS incidence after cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty was minimal, with a predominantly low severity. Importantly, preexisting heart disease did not pose a significant increase in the risk of BCIS. This finding confirms the safety of cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty in older adults.

Level of Evidence

III.

Bone Health Optimization in Adult Spinal Deformity Patients: A Narrative Review

Osteoporosis and low bone mineral density (BMD) pose significant challenges in adult spinal deformity surgery, increasing the risks of complications such as vertebral compression fractures, hardware failure, proximal junctional kyphosis/failure, and pseudoarthrosis. This narrative review examines the current evidence on bone health optimization strategies for spinal deformity patients. Preoperative screening and medical optimization are crucial, with vitamin D supplementation showing particular benefit. Among the pharmacologic agents, bisphosphonates demonstrate efficacy in improving fusion rates and reducing hardware-related complications, though the effects may be delayed. Teriparatide, a parathyroid hormone analog, shows promise in accelerating fusion and enhancing pedicle screw fixation. Newer anabolic agents like abaloparatide and romosozumab require further study but show potential. Romosozumab, in particular, has demonstrated significant improvements in lumbar spine BMD over a shorter duration compared to other treatments. Surgical techniques like cement augmentation and the use of larger interbody cages can mitigate the risks in osteoporotic patients. Overall, a multifaceted approach incorporating medical optimization, appropriate pharmacologic treatment, and tailored surgical techniques is recommended to improve outcomes in adult spinal deformity patients with compromised bone quality. Future research should focus on optimizing the treatment protocols, assessing the long-term outcomes of newer agents in the spine surgery population, and developing cost-effective strategies to improve access to these promising therapies.

The classification algorithms to support the management of the patient with femur fracture

Effectiveness in health care is a specific characteristic of each intervention and outcome evaluated. Especially with regard to surgical interventions, organization, structure and processes play a key role in determining this parameter. In addition, health care services by definition operate in a context of limited resources, so rationalization of service organization becomes the primary goal for health care management. This aspect becomes even more relevant for those surgical services for which there are high volumes. Therefore, in order to support and optimize the management of patients undergoing surgical procedures, the data analysis could play a significant role. To this end, in this study used different classification algorithms for characterizing the process of patients undergoing surgery for a femoral neck fracture. The models showed significant accuracy with values of 81%, and parameters such as Anaemia and Gender proved to be determined risk factors for the patient's length of stay. The predictive power of the implemented model is assessed and discussed in view of its capability to support the management and optimisation of the hospitalisation process for femoral neck fracture, and is compared with different model in order to identify the most promising algorithms. In the end, the support of artificial intelligence algorithms laying the basis for building more accurate decision-support tools for healthcare practitioners.

Challenges of Hip Arthroplasty in a Paretic, Spastic Limb: A Case Study on Managing Femoral Neck Fracture Following Fixation Failure in a Hemiparetic Patient

Background: Hip fractures and strokes are prevalent and escalating issues in geriatric healthcare. The absence of standardized surgical protocols for patients with spastic hemiparesis and multiple comorbidities presents a significant medical challenge. Methods: This case study describes a 64-year-old male patient with left-sided hemiparesis and failed surgical treatment of a pertrochanteric fracture in a spastic limb. The patient was admitted to the Department of Rehabilitation and Orthopedics in December 2022 for diagnostics and to establish a treatment plan after five months of non-ambulatory status. Results: This study emphasizes the crucial role of preoperative preparation, involving botulinum toxin injections into spastic muscles and physiotherapy, to enhance the supportive function of the paretic limb and improve locomotion before prosthetic surgery. Conclusions: The management of hip fractures in patients with spastic paralysis requires a multidisciplinary approach and the development of standardized treatment protocols. This case underscores the importance of comprehensive pre- and postoperative rehabilitation to improve patient outcomes. Further research is needed to establish standardized rehabilitation protocols for spastic patients undergoing hip arthroplasty. Randomized controlled trials could provide valuable insights into the efficacy of various interventions.

Clinical Workflow Algorithm for Preoperative Planning, Reduction and Stabilization of Complex Acetabular Fractures with the Support of Three-Dimensional Technologies

Background: Treatment of pelvic injuries poses serious problems for surgeons due to the difficulties of the associated injuries. The objective of this research is to create a clinical workflow that integrates three-dimensional technologies in preoperative planning and performing surgery for the reduction and stabilization of associated acetabular fractures. Methods: The research methodology consisted of integrating the stages of virtual preoperative planning, physical preoperative planning, and performing the surgical intervention in a newly developed clinical workflow. The proposed model was validated in practice in a pilot surgical intervention. Results: On a complex pelvic injury case of a patient with an associated both-column acetabular fracture (AO/OTA-62C1g), we presented the results obtained in the six stages of the clinical workflow: acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) images, creation of the virtual model of the pelvis, creation of the physical model of the pelvis, preoperative physical simulation, orthopedic surgery, and imaging validation of the intervention. The life-size 3D model was fabricated based on computed tomography imagistics. To create the virtual model, the images were imported into Invesalius (version 3.1.1, CTI, Brazil), after which they were processed with MeshLab (version 2023.12, ISTI-CNR, Italy) and FreeCAD (version 0.21.2, LGPL, FSF, Boston, MA, USA). The physical model was printed in 21 h and 37 min using Ultimaker Cura software (version 5.7.2), on an Ultimaker 2+ printing machine through a Fused Deposition Modeling process. Using the physical model, osteosynthesis plate dimensions and fixation screw trajectories were tested to reduce the risk of neurovascular injury, after which they were adjusted and resterilized, which enhanced preoperative decision-making. Conclusions: The life-size physical model improved anatomical appreciation and preoperative planning, enabling accurate surgical simulation. The tools created demonstrated remarkable accuracy and cost-effectiveness that support the advancement and efficiency of clinical practice.

Correlation between Peripheric Blood Markers and Surgical Invasiveness during Humeral Shaft Fracture Osteosynthesis in Young and Middle-Aged Patients

The treatment for humeral shaft fractures (HSFs) is still controversial, consisting of a wide variety of orthopedic osteosynthesis materials that imply different grades of invasiveness. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between inflammatory blood-derived markers and the magnitude of the surgical procedure in young and middle-aged patients who sustained these fractures. Observational, retrospective research was conducted between January 2018 and December 2023. It followed patients diagnosed with recent HFSs (AO/OTA 12-A and B) and followed operative treatment. They were split in two groups, depending on the surgical protocol: group A, operated by closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) with intramedullary nails (IMNs), and group B, operated by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with dynamic compression plates (DCPs). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two groups could be observed in injury on the basis of surgery durations, surgical times, pre- and postoperative neutrophil-per-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), postoperative platelet-per-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-per-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic inflammatory index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI) and aggregate inflammatory systemic index (AISI). The multivariate regression model proposed revealed that NLR > 7.99 (p = 0.007), AISI > 1668.58 (p = 0.008), and the surgical times (p < 0.0001) are strongly correlated to the magnitude of the surgical protocol followed. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, a balanced reliability was determined for both postoperative NLR > 7.99 (sensitivity 75.0% and specificity 75.6) and AISI > 1668.58 (sensitivity 70.6% and specificity 82.2%). Postoperative NLR and AISI as inflammatory markers are highly associated with the magnitude of surgical trauma sustained during humeral shaft fracture osteosynthesis in a younger population.

Prognostic Significance of Heart Failure in Acute Pulmonary Embolism: A Comprehensive Assessment of 30-Day Outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Patients with heart failure (HF) are known to have an increased risk of pulmonary embolism (PE), but there is limited evidence regarding the prognostic implications of HF in patients with acute PE and the relationship between PE prognosis and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The primary objective of this study was the development of a composite outcome (mortality, major bleeding, and recurrence) within the first 30 days. The secondary objective was to identify the role of LVEF in predicting the development of early complications in patients with both HF and reduced LVEF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted at two tertiary hospitals between January 2012 and December 2022 to assess differences among patients diagnosed with acute PE based on the presence or absence of a history of HF. Cox regression models were employed to assess the impact of HF and reduced LVEF on the composite outcome at 30 days.

RESULTS

Out of 1991 patients with acute symptomatic PE, 7.13% had a history of HF. Patients with HF were older and had more comorbidities. The HF group exhibited higher mortality (11.27% vs. 4.33%, p < 0.001) and a higher incidence of major bleeding (9.86% vs. 4.54%, p = 0.005). In the multivariate analysis, HF was an independent risk factor for the development of the composite outcome (HR 1.93; 95% CI 1.35-2.76). Reduced LVEF was independently associated with a higher risk of major bleeding (HR 3.44; 95% CI 1.34-8.81).

CONCLUSION

In patients with acute pulmonary embolism, heart failure is independently associated with a higher risk of early complications. Additionally, heart failure with reduced LVEF is an independent risk factor for major bleeding.

Sterile Inflammatory Response and Surgery-Related Trauma in Elderly Patients with Subtrochanteric Fractures

Sterile inflammation is a natural response of the organism in the absence of microorganisms, which is triggered in correspondence with the degree of tissue damage sustained after a surgical procedure. The objective of this study was to explore the values of postoperative hematological-derived biomarkers in assessing the sterile inflammatory response magnitude related to the invasiveness of the surgical reduction technique used for subtrochanteric fractures (STFs) treatment. A retrospective, observational cohort research was conducted between January 2021 and October 2023 that included a total of 143 patients diagnosed with acute subtrochanteric fractures who underwent long Gamma Nail (LGN) fixation. According to the surgical reduction technique used, they were divided into two groups: group 1, which consisted of those with a closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF); and group 2, which consisted of those with an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). Between groups, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in relation to days to surgery, length of hospital stay (LOHS), duration of surgery, postoperative hemoglobin (HGB) levels, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and aggregate inflammation systemic index (AISI). The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis revealed that all ratios presented a high diagnostic ability (p < 0.0001) with NLR > 6.95 being the most reliable (sensitivity 94.8% and specificity 70.6%). Moreover, the multivariate regression model confirmed that sterile immune response after orthopedic interventions can be assessed in an almost equal and non-dependent manner using these biomarkers. Postoperative NLR, PLR, MLR, SII, SIRI, and AISI ratios are closely correlated to the sterile inflammatory response magnitude, due to the extent of surgical dissection performed during internal fixation procedures of subtrochanteric femur fractures.

Assessment of Cement Leakage in Decompressed Percutaneous Kyphoplasty

Symptomatic osteoporotic compression fractures are commonly addressed through vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. However, cement leakage poses a significant risk of neurological damage. We introduced "aspiration percutaneous kyphoplasty", also known as "decompressed kyphoplasty", as a method to mitigate cement leakage and conducted a comparative analysis with high viscosity cement vertebroplasty. We conducted a retrospective study that included 136 patients with single-level osteoporotic compression fractures. Among them, 70 patients underwent high viscosity cement vertebroplasty, while 66 patients received decompressed percutaneous kyphoplasty with low-viscosity cement. Comparison parameters included cement leakage rates, kyphotic angle alterations, and the occurrence of adjacent segment fractures. The overall cement leakage rate favored the decompressed kyphoplasty group (9.1% vs. 18.6%), although statistical significance was not achieved (p = 0.111). Nonetheless, the risk of intradiscal leakage significantly reduced in the decompressed kyphoplasty cohort (p = 0.011), which was particularly evident in cases lacking the preoperative cleft sign on X-rays. Kyphotic angle changes and the risk of adjacent segment collapse exhibited similar outcomes (p = 0.739 and 0.522, respectively). We concluded that decompressed kyphoplasty demonstrates efficacy in reducing intradiscal cement leakage, particularly benefiting patients without the preoperative cleft sign on X-rays by preventing intradiscal leakage.

Implications of siRNA Therapy in Bone Health: Silencing Communicates

The global statistics of bone disorders, skeletal defects, and fractures are frightening. Several therapeutic strategies are being used to fix them; however, RNAi-based siRNA therapy is starting to prove to be a promising approach for the prevention of bone disorders because of its advanced capabilities to deliver siRNA or siRNA drug conjugate to the target tissue. Despite its 'bench-to-bedside' usefulness and approval by food and drug administration for five siRNA-based therapeutic medicines: Patisiran, Vutrisiran, Inclisiran, Lumasiran, and Givosiran, its use for the other diseases still remains to be resolved. By correcting the complications and complexities involved in siRNA delivery for its sustained release, better absorption, and toxicity-free activity, siRNA therapy can be harnessed as an experimental tool for the prevention of complex and undruggable diseases with a personalized medicine approach. The present review summarizes the findings of notable research to address the implications of siRNA in bone health for the restoration of bone mass, recovery of bone loss, and recuperation of bone fractures.

Cemented versus Cementless Stem Fixation in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The number of revision knee arthroplasties (rTKA) is growing significantly as is the use of intramedullary stems for optimized stability. The choice of the most appropriate stem fixation method is still controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare cemented versus cementless stem fixation in rTKA. Publications with patients undergoing rTKA with a follow-up > 24 months were systemically reviewed. Extracted parameters included total revision and failure rates for any reason, incidence of aseptic loosening, periprosthetic infection, and radiolucent lines, as well as the clinical outcome. A statistical regression analysis was then performed on all extracted clinical and radiological outcome data. A total of 35 publications met the inclusion criteria and were included and analyzed. Overall, 14/35 publications compared cementless versus cemented stem fixation, whereas 21/35 publications investigated only one stem fixation method. There were no significant differences in revision (p = 0.2613) or failure rates (p = 0.3559) and no differences in the incidence of aseptic loosening (p = 0.3999) or periprosthetic infection (p = 0.1010). The incidence of radiolucent lines was significantly higher in patients with cemented stems (26.2% versus 18.6%, p < 0.0001). However, no differences in clinical outcomes were observed. No superiority of a specific stem fixation method in rTKA was found. Rates of revision or failure for any reason as well as incidence of aseptic loosening and periprosthetic infection in cemented versus cementless stem fixation showed no significant difference. A higher incidence of radiolucent lines was observed in cemented stem fixation; however, no effect was observed on the clinical outcome.