Effect of tranexamic acid on shoulder surgery: an updated meta-analysis of randomized studies

BACKGROUND

The effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been proven to be effective in reducing blood loss in lower limb arthroplasty. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of TXA in shoulder surgery with the updated studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of all the randomized controlled trials were conducted. We compared the outcomes of patients with and without TXA. The PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were systematically searched for relevant studies.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies, enrolling 1131 patients, were included for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Our results revealed that TXA was associated with a significant reduction in total volume blood loss (mean difference [MD]: -112.97, P = .0006), drain output (MD: -81.90, P < .00001), hemoglobin changes (MD: -0.55, P = .02), shorter operative time (MD: -6.19, P = .01), and lower risk of hematoma formation (odds ratio: -0.20, P = .01). The postoperative visual analog scale pain score was also significantly better in the TXA group (MD: -0.78, P < .00001). No significant difference was detected in length of hospital stay and incidence of thromboembolization.

CONCLUSION

The usage of TXA in shoulder surgery appeared to be safe and effective in reducing blood loss without any significant complication.

Effects of combined dexamethasone and tranexamic acid in lower limb total arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of combined Tranexamic acid (TXA) and dexamethasone (DEX) in total hip and knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE and CENTRAL database were systematically searched for randomized studies that utilized TXA and DEX administration of TXA in THA or TKA.

RESULTS

A total of three randomized studies enrolling 288 patients were eligible for qualitative and quantitative analysis. DEX + TXA group demonstrated statistical significantly lesser usage of oxycodone (OR: 0.34, p < 0.0001), metoclopramide (OR: 0.21, p < 0.00001), lesser incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (OR: 0.27, p < 0.0001), better postoperative range of motion (MD: 2.30, p < 0.00001) and shorter length of hospital stay (MD: 0.31, p = 0.03). Comparable results were seen in total blood loss, transfusion rate and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, the combination of TXA and DEX has positive impacts on the usage of oxycodone and metoclopramide, postoperative range of motion, postoperative nausea and vomiting and reduces the length of hospital stay.

Ivabradine in the Prevention, and Reduction in Size, of Perioperative Myocardial Injury in Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Surgery for Acute Fracture

BACKGROUND

Perioperative myocardial injury is common after major noncardiac surgery and is associated with adverse outcomes. This study investigated the use of ivabradine in patients undergoing urgent surgery for fracture.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Participants were enrolled 1:1 into ivabradine or placebo arm, and study drug was commenced before operation and continued for 7 days or until discharge. High-sensitivity troponin I was measured daily using Abbott Alinity analyzer and assay, and heart rate data were obtained using continuous Holter monitoring. A total of 199 patients underwent acute orthopedic surgery, 98 in the ivabradine group and 101 in the placebo group. The mean age was 78.7 years (range, 77.5-79.9 years), with 68% women. The average heart rate was 5 to 11 beats per minute lower in the ivabradine group compared with the placebo group at all time points (P<0.001 for all). There was no statistically significant difference between the ivabradine and placebo groups in the number of patients who had perioperative myocardial injury: 28.6% versus 31.6% (P=0.71). In patients with perioperative myocardial injury, average peak troponin was 168.8 ng/L (±431.2 ng/L) in the ivabradine group and 2094.5 ng/L (±7201.9 ng/L) in the placebo group (P=0.16). There was no statistically significant difference between groups in 30-day mortality, blood pressure, stroke, or major adverse cardiovascular event.

CONCLUSIONS

Starting ivabradine preoperatively in elderly patients requiring acute surgery for fracture did not result in a statistically significant difference in the incidence of perioperative myocardial injury. There was no statistically significant difference in morbidity, mortality, or adverse events between treatment groups.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au/; Unique identifier: ACTRN12616001634460p.

Functional outcomes of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in Boileau class 1 and class 2 proximal humeral fracture sequelae: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Background

Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is an increasingly popular salvage treatment option for proximal humeral fracture (PHF) sequelae. This meta-analysis aimed to conduct a pooled analysis of functional outcomes of RTSA in PHF sequelae, with subgroup analysis comparing between intracapsular (Class 1) and extracapsular (Class 2) PHF sequelae.

Methods

A multi-database search (PubMed, OVID, EMBASE) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines on 27th July 2020. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analysed.

Findings

Eleven studies were included, comprising 359 shoulders (167 Class 1 and 192 Class 2). The mean age was 68.2 years, and the mean time between injury and surgery was 49 months, (1-516 months). Constant score and forward flexion improved by 31.8 (95%CI: 30.5-33.1, p < 0.001) and 60o (95%CI: 58o-62o, p < 0.001) respectively between pre-operative and post-operative values for both groups. Constant scores were better in Class 1 patients (MD = 3.60, 95%CI: 1.0-6.2, p < 0.001) pre-operatively and post-operatively (MD = 7.4, 95%CI: 5.8-9.0, p < 0.001). Forward flexion was significantly better in Class 1 patients (MD = 13o, 95%CI: 7o-17o, p < 0.001) pre-operatively, but was slightly better in Class 2 patients post-operatively (MD = 7o, 95%CI: 4o-10o, p < 0.001). Overall complication rate was 16.8%.

Conclusion

Salvage RTSA is effective for PHF sequelae, with multiple factors contributing to the high complication rate.

Comparing outcomes of total hip arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty in neck of femur fracture patients: an Australian registry study

PURPOSE

To determine discharge outcomes of displaced subcapital NOF patients who were from home, with intact pre-operative cognition, ASA 1 or 2 and independent walkers treated with either THA or hemiarthroplasty.

METHODS

A retrospective registry study was performed using data from the Australia and New Zealand Hip Fracture Registry (ANZHFR). Institutional ethics approval was obtained prior to commencement. Hip fracture registry records between 1st January 2016 and 31st January 2020 were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 930 patients with complete records were identified and included. There were 602 THA and 328 hemiarthroplasty patients. Using multivariate analysis, pre-operative factors associated with THA include younger age (OR = 0.90 for every year older, p < 0.001), females (p = 0.043), private admissions (OR = 1.62, p = 0.028) and receiving pre-operative geriatric assessment (OR = 1.89, p = 0.002). Delay to theatre due to not being fit for surgery was associated with not receiving THA (OR = 0.21, p < 0.001). THA resulted in a shorter total hospital length of stay (MD = 7.24, p < 0.001), higher likelihood of being discharged home (OR = 1.88, p < 0.001) and lower likelihood of being discharged to a residential aged care facility (OR = 0.32, p = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

Displaced subcapital NOF patients who were admitted from home, had intact pre-operative cognition, ASA 1 or 2, independent walkers and had THAs, had shorter total hospital length of stay, were more likely to be discharged home directly and less likely to end up in residential aged care facilities compared to those undergoing hemiarthroplasty.

Primary and Periprosthetic Distal Femur Fractures in Older Adults: No Difference in 12-Month Mortality and Patient-Reported Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To compare fracture incidence, mortality, and patient-reported health outcomes at 6 and 12 months postinjury between primary and periprosthetic distal femur fractures in older adults.

METHODS

A registry-based cohort study was conducted including all adults 70 years of age or older registered by the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry who experienced a primary or periprosthetic distal femur fracture between 2007 and 2017. Outcomes included mortality and health status (Three-Level European Quality of Life-Five Dimensions Scale [EQ-5D-3L]) collected at 6 and 12 months postinjury. All distal femur fractures were confirmed by radiological review. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to report associations between fracture type and mortality and health status.

RESULTS

A final cohort of 292 participants was identified. Overall mortality for the cohort was 29.8%, and no significant differences were found in mortality rate or EQ-5D-3L outcomes between fracture types (ie, primary vs. periprosthetic). A large proportion of participants reported problems across all EQ-5D-3L domains at 6 and 12 months postinjury, with slightly worse outcomes in the primary fracture group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports high mortality and poor 12-month outcomes in an older adult cohort with both periprosthetic and primary distal femur fractures. Given these poor outcomes, fracture prevention and a greater focus on long-term rehabilitation is needed in this cohort. In addition, the involvement of an ortho-geriatrician should be considered as a routine component of care.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Effect of Aspirin vs Enoxaparin on 90-Day Mortality in Patients Undergoing Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Secondary Analysis of the CRISTAL Cluster Randomized Trial

Importance

Ischemic heart disease remains the leading cause of mortality following hip and knee arthroplasty. Due to its antiplatelet and cardioprotective properties, aspirin has been proposed as an agent that could reduce mortality when used as venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis following these procedures.

Objective

To compare aspirin with enoxaparin in reducing 90-day mortality for patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty procedures.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study was a planned secondary analysis of the CRISTAL cluster randomized, crossover, registry-nested trial performed across 31 participating hospitals in Australia between April 20, 2019, and December 18, 2020. The aim of the CRISTAL trial was to determine whether aspirin was noninferior to enoxaparin in preventing symptomatic VTE following hip or knee arthroplasty. The primary study restricted the analysis to patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty for a diagnosis of osteoarthritis only. This study includes all adult patients (aged ≥18 years) undergoing any hip or knee arthroplasty procedure at participating sites during the course of the trial. Data were analyzed from June 1 to September 6, 2021.

Interventions

Hospitals were randomized to administer all patients oral aspirin (100 mg daily) or subcutaneous enoxaparin (40 mg daily) for 35 days after hip arthroplasty and 14 days after knee arthroplasty procedures.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was mortality within 90 days. The between-group difference in mortality was estimated using cluster summary methods.

Results

A total of 23 458 patients from 31 hospitals were included, with 14 156 patients allocated to aspirin (median [IQR] age, 69 [62-77] years; 7984 [56.4%] female) and 9302 patients allocated to enoxaparin (median [IQR] age, 70 [62-77] years; 5277 [56.7%] female). The mortality rate within 90 days of surgery was 1.67% in the aspirin group and 1.53% in the enoxaparin group (estimated difference, 0.04%; 95% CI, -0.05%-0.42%). For the subgroup of 21 148 patients with a nonfracture diagnosis, the mortality rate was 0.49% in the aspirin group and 0.41% in the enoxaparin group (estimated difference, 0.05%; 95% CI, -0.67% to 0.76%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this secondary analysis of a cluster randomized trial comparing aspirin with enoxaparin following hip or knee arthroplasty, there was no significant between-group difference in mortality within 90 days when either drug was used for VTE prophylaxis.

Trial Registration

http://anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12618001879257.

Health professionals' attitudes towards acupuncture/acupressure for post-operative nausea and vomiting: a survey and implications for implementation

PURPOSE

Level 1 evidence supports the use of acupuncture/acupressure (A/A) to manage post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV). This study aimed to survey healthcare professionals' attitudes towards A/A, influencing factors and barriers to implementing this effective non-drug intervention into peri-operative care.

METHODS

A validated, anonymous survey with 43 questions was emailed or distributed as a hard copy at meetings to anaesthetists, midwives, nurses, obstetricians, gynaecologists and surgeons at a public hospital in Australia. Descriptive data were presented. Influencing factors were explored using chi-square analysis. Multinomial logistical regression was used to identify the influences of confounding factors.

RESULTS

A total of 155 completed surveys were returned, reflecting a response rate of 32%. The majority of participants were female (69%), nurses/midwives (61%) and aged between 20 and 50 years old (76%). Eighty-three percent of respondents considered A/A 'clearly alternative' medicine or 'neither mainstream nor alternative'. Eighty-one percent would encourage patients to use acupressure for PONV if it was offered at the hospital. Previous personal use of A/A was the key factor influencing attitudes and openness to clinical use. The key barriers to implementation were perceived lack of evidence and lack of qualified providers and time.

CONCLUSION

Hospital-based healthcare professionals strongly supported the evidence-based use of A/A for PONV despite considering the therapy to be non-mainstream and having limited A/A education or history of personal use, providing a positive context for an acupressure implementation study. Significant gaps in training and a desire to learn were identified.

A walking programme for adults living in the community after hip fracture: A feasibility randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To test the feasibility of a walking programme for community-dwelling adults recovering from hip fracture.

DESIGN

A randomized controlled trial with embedded qualitative analysis.

SETTING

Community.

PARTICIPANTS

Aged at least 60 years and living in the community after hip fracture.

INTERVENTIONS

In addition to standard care, the experimental group received weekly home-based physiotherapy for 12 weeks to facilitate 100 minutes/week of moderate-intensity walking.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Feasibility domains of demand, acceptability, implementation, practicality and limited efficacy.

RESULTS

Of 158 potentially eligible, 38 participated (23 women, mean age 80 years, SD 9). The recruitment rate of 24% indicated low demand. Participants considered the walking programme highly acceptable. The programme was implemented as intended; the experimental group received a mean of 11 (SD 1) consultations and averaged more than 100 min of walking per week. The programme was practical with no serious adverse events and no between-group difference in risk of falling or hospital readmissions. Demonstrating evidence of efficacy, there were moderate standardized mean differences for physical activity favouring the experimental group, who increased daily moderate-intensity physical activity compared to the control group (MD 8 min, 95% CI 2-13). There were no between-group differences in mobility, walking confidence or quality of life.

CONCLUSION

A walking programme for community-dwelling older adults after hip fracture was acceptable, could be implemented as intended and was practical and demonstrated preliminary evidence of efficacy in increasing physical activity. However, low demand would threaten the feasibility of such a programme.

Effect of Aspirin vs Enoxaparin on Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism in Patients Undergoing Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: The CRISTAL Randomized Trial

IMPORTANCE

There remains a lack of randomized trials investigating aspirin monotherapy for symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis following total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether aspirin was noninferior to enoxaparin in preventing symptomatic VTE after THA or TKA.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Cluster-randomized, crossover, registry-nested trial across 31 hospitals in Australia. Clusters were hospitals performing greater than 250 THA or TKA procedures annually. Patients (aged ≥18 years) undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty procedures were enrolled at each hospital. Patients receiving preoperative anticoagulation or who had a medical contraindication to either study drug were excluded. A total of 9711 eligible patients were enrolled (5675 in the aspirin group and 4036 in the enoxaparin group) between April 20, 2019, and December 18, 2020. Final follow-up occurred on August 14, 2021.

INTERVENTIONS

Hospitals were randomized to administer aspirin (100 mg/d) or enoxaparin (40 mg/d) for 35 days after THA and for 14 days after TKA. Crossover occurred after the patient enrollment target had been met for the first group. All 31 hospitals were initially randomized and 16 crossed over prior to trial cessation.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was symptomatic VTE within 90 days, including pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) (above or below the knee). The noninferiority margin was 1%. Six secondary outcomes are reported, including death and major bleeding within 90 days. Analyses were performed by randomization group.

RESULTS

Enrollment was stopped after an interim analysis determined the stopping rule was met, with 9711 patients (median age, 68 years; 56.8% female) of the prespecified 15 562 enrolled (62%). Of these, 9203 (95%) completed the trial. Within 90 days of surgery, symptomatic VTE occurred in 256 patients, including pulmonary embolism (79 cases), above-knee DVT (18 cases), and below-knee DVT (174 cases). The symptomatic VTE rate in the aspirin group was 3.45% and in the enoxaparin group was 1.82% (estimated difference, 1.97%; 95% CI, 0.54%-3.41%). This failed to meet the criterion for noninferiority for aspirin and was significantly superior for enoxaparin (P = .007). Of 6 secondary outcomes, none were significantly better in the enoxaparin group compared with the aspirin group.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis, aspirin compared with enoxaparin resulted in a significantly higher rate of symptomatic VTE within 90 days, defined as below- or above-knee DVT or pulmonary embolism. These findings may be informed by a cost-effectiveness analysis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ANZCTR Identifier: ACTRN12618001879257.

Distal femoral arthroplasty for native knee fractures : results from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the rate of revision for distal femoral arthroplasty (DFA) performed as a primary procedure for native knee fractures using data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Arthroplasty Registry (AOANJRR).

METHODS

Data from the AOANJRR were obtained for DFA performed as primary procedures for native knee fractures from 1 September 1999 to 31 December 2020. Pathological fractures and revision for failed internal fixation were excluded. The five prostheses identified were the Global Modular Arthroplasty System, the Modular Arthroplasty System, the Modular Universal Tumour And Revision System, the Orthopaedic Salvage System, and the Segmental System. Patient demographic data (age, sex, and American Society of Anesthesiologists grade) were obtained, where available. Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival were used to determine the rate of revision, and the reasons for revision and mortality data were examined.

RESULTS

The AOANJRR identified 153 primary DFAs performed for native knee fractures in 151 patients during the study period, with 63.3% of these (n = 97) performed within the last five years. The median follow-up was 2.1 years (interquartile range 0.8 to 4.4). The patient population was 84.8% female (n = 128), with a mean age of 76.1 years (SD 11.9). The cumulative percent revision rate at three years was 10%. The most common reason for revision was loosening, followed by infection. Patient survival at one year was 87.5%, decreasing to 72.8% at three years postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The use of DFA to treat native knee fractures is increasing, with 63.3% of cases performed within the last five years. While long-term data are not available, the results of this study suggest that DFA may be a reasonable option for elderly patients with native knee fractures where fixation is not feasible, or for whom prolonged non-weightbearing may be detrimental. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(7):894-901.

Distal Femoral Replacement for Periprosthetic Fractures After TKA: Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry Review

BACKGROUND

Distal femoral replacement (DFR) is a potential treatment option following periprosthetic fracture (PPF) of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there is limited literature regarding implant survivorship and complication rates. The aim of this study was to examine patient demographics and trends in usage, implant survivorship and modes of failure, and patient mortality following DFR for PPF captured by a national joint replacement registry.

METHODS

A retrospective registry review was performed using data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR). In total, 306 DFR were performed for PPF of a known primary TKA. Eighty-five percent of patients were female, and the mean age was 76.4 years. Kaplan-Meier estimates of implant and patient survivorship were performed.

RESULTS

The number of DFR performed for PPF has doubled over the past five years. The cumulative percent second revision rate at six years was 12%. The most common indications for revision were infection (37%) and aseptic loosening (33%). Patient survivorship after DFR was 97% and 83% at five and ten years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A national registry review has identified the increasing prevalence of DFR for PPF after primary TKA and demonstrated implant survivorship of 88% at midterm follow-up. Surgeons may consider DFR as an acceptable and durable treatment option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III - Case Series.

Predicting fracture outcomes from clinical registry data using artificial intelligence supplemented models for evidence-informed treatment (PRAISE) study protocol

Background

Distal radius (wrist) fractures are the second most common fracture admitted to hospital. The anatomical pattern of these types of injuries is diverse, with variation in clinical management, guidelines for management remain inconclusive, and the uptake of findings from clinical trials into routine practice limited. Robust predictive modelling, which considers both the characteristics of the fracture and patient, provides the best opportunity to reduce variation in care and improve patient outcomes. This type of data is housed in unstructured data sources with no particular format or schema. The “Predicting fracture outcomes from clinical Registry data using Artificial Intelligence (AI) Supplemented models for Evidence-informed treatment (PRAISE)” study aims to use AI methods on unstructured data to describe the fracture characteristics and test if using this information improves identification of key fracture characteristics and prediction of patient-reported outcome measures and clinical outcomes following wrist fractures compared to prediction models based on standard registry data.

Methods and design

Adult (16+ years) patients presenting to the emergency department, treated in a short stay unit, or admitted to hospital for >24h for management of a wrist fracture in four Victorian hospitals will be included in this study. The study will use routine registry data from the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR), and electronic medical record (EMR) information (e.g. X-rays, surgical reports, radiology reports, images). A multimodal deep learning fracture reasoning system (DLFRS) will be developed that reasons on EMR information. Machine learning prediction models will test the performance with/without output from the DLFRS.

Discussion

The PRAISE study will establish the use of AI techniques to provide enhanced information about fracture characteristics in people with wrist fractures. Prediction models using AI derived characteristics are expected to provide better prediction of clinical and patient-reported outcomes following distal radius fracture.

Greater risk of all-cause revisions and complications for obese patients in 3 106 381 total knee arthroplasties: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a major public health issue and has considerable implications on outcomes of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there has been conflicting evidence and conclusions on the effects of obesity on TKA. This meta-analysis compares the outcomes, complications, and peri-operative parameters of TKA in the obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m² ) versus non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m² ) population as well as subgroup analysis of morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² ) versus non-obese population.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted with a multi-database search according to PRISMA guidelines on 12 September 2019. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analysed.

RESULTS

Ninety-one studies were included, consisting of 917 447 obese and 2 188 834 non-obese TKA. Obese patients had higher risk of all-cause revisions (odds ratio [OR] = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.08-1.24, p < 0.0001), all complications (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.06-1.38, p = 0.004), deep infections (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.27-1.69, p < 0.0001), superficial infections (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.32-1.91, p < 0.0001), wound dehiscence (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.24-1.72, p < 0.0001) and readmissions (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.05-1.40, p = 0.009). Subgroup analysis of morbidly obese patients revealed greater risks of all-cause revisions (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.10-1.43, p = 0.0009), deep infections (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.05-3.75, p = 0.04), superficial infections (OR = 2.44, 95% CI: 2.08-2.88, p < 0.0001) and readmissions (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.20-1.47, p < 0.0001). No analysis was performed on patient reported outcome measures due to heterogeneous reporting methods.

CONCLUSION

Obese and morbidly obese patients have higher risks of revisions and infections post TKA. Surgeons should counsel patients of these risks during the informed consenting process and adopt preventative strategies into clinical practice to reduce risks where possible. In conclusion, obesity is a significant, modifiable risk factor for increased complications following TKA.

Motivational interviewing with community-dwelling older adults after hip fracture (MIHip): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Community-dwelling people recovering from hip fracture have the physical capacity to walk in their community but lack the confidence to do so. The primary aim of this trial is to determine whether motivational interviewing increases time spent walking at 12 months in community-dwelling people after hip fracture compared with an attention placebo control group. Secondary aims are to evaluate cost effectiveness, patient and health service outcomes and to complete a process evaluation.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

An assessor-blinded parallel group randomised controlled design with embedded health economic evaluation and process evaluation will compare the effects of n=270 participants randomly allocated to an experimental group (motivational interviewing) or a control group (dietary advice). For inclusion, participants are aged ≥65 years, living at home independently within 6 months of discharge from hospital after hip fracture and able to walk independently and communicate with conversational English. Key exclusion criteria are severe depression or anxiety, impaired intellectual functioning and being medically unstable to walk. Participants allocated to the experimental group will receive 10 (8 weekly and 2 booster) telephone-based sessions of motivational interviewing to increase walking over 16 weeks. Participants allocated to the control group will receive an equivalent dose of telephone-based dietary advice. The primary outcome is daily time spent walking over 7 days assessed at weeks 0, 9, 26 and 52. Secondary outcomes include measures of psychological-related function, mobility-related function, community participation, health-related quality of life and falls. Health service utilisation and associated costs will be assessed. Process evaluation will assess the fidelity of the motivational interviewing intervention and explore contextual factors through semistructured interviews.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval obtained from Eastern Health (E19-002), Peninsula Health (50261/EH-2019), Alfred Health (617/20) and La Trobe University (E19/002/50261). The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and public seminars.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12619000936123.

Improved functional outcome and tuberosity healing in patients treated with fracture stems than nonfracture stems during shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Proximal humeral fractures are difficult injuries to treat and obtain satisfactory outcomes. For those treated with arthroplasty, humeral fracture stems have been popular due to better ability for reduction and fixation of tuberosities. This study aims to investigate the outcomes of fracture stems in shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fracture and the comparison of outcomes between fracture vs. nonfracture stems.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted with a multidatabase search (PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, Medline) according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines on May 19, 2020. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analyzed.

FINDINGS

Eleven studies were included for analysis, including 383 hemiarthroplasties (HA) (294 fracture stems, 89 nonfracture stems) and 358 reverse total shoulder arthroplasties (RTSA) (309 fracture stems, 49 nonfracture stems). At the final follow-up, meta-analysis shows favorable overall ASES score in all fracture stem prosthesis (mean = 74.0, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 69.3-78.7), Constant-Murley score (mean = 67.2, 95% CI: 61.6-72.8), external rotation (mean difference [MD] = 7°, 95% CI: 3°-10°, P < .001), and forward flexion (MD = 17°, 95% CI: 10°-25°, P < .001). Pooled proportion (PP) of greater tuberosity healing (PP = 0.786, 95% CI: 0.686-0.886) was high, whereas all-cause revisions (PP = 0.034, 95% CI: 0.018-0.061) remained low. With the exception of RTSA scapular notching (PP = 0.109, 95% CI: 0.020-0.343), other complication metrics had PP of ≤0.023. In the 4 studies comparing fracture (138 HA, 54 RTSA) vs. nonfracture stems (89 HA, 49 RTSA), fracture stems had statistically significant better American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (MD = 14.29, 95% CI: 8.18-20.41, P < .001), external rotation (MD = 6°, 95% CI: 2°-9°, P = .003), forward flexion (MD = 16°, 95% CI: 7°-24°, P < .001), and greater tuberosity healing (odds ratio = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.28-3.77, P = .004). There was no statistically significant difference in complications.

CONCLUSION

Fracture stems showed promising overall clinical outcomes with low complication rates in treating proximal humeral fractures. The use of fracture stems is also associated with greater chance of tuberosity healing compared with nonfracture stems. There is increasing evidence to suggest the superiority of fracture stems over nonfracture stems in clinical outcomes, while maintaining similar complication rates.

Intraoperative fluoroscopy alone versus routine post-operative X-rays in identifying return to theatre after fracture fixation

BACKGROUND

Post-operative imaging aims to assess fracture reduction and fixation with better resolution than intraoperative fluoroscopy (IF). However, this routine practice may increase costs and delay the discharge of patients. The aim of this study is to assess the role of post-operative imaging in identifying patients that require a return to theatre following the use of IF.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a single health network comprising of two hospitals over 1 year. All fracture fixations that required IF were included. Patients who had post-operative imaging were identified and complications requiring a return to theatre were obtained. Non-trauma patients and those who did not have IF were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 1319 patients had IF. Of these patients, 1131 patients had post-operative radiographs within 7 days of their operation. In total, 12 patients (1.1%) returned to theatre as a result of a finding identified in their post-operative imaging. The calculated number of X-rays required to be taken to identify a complication was 94. The main reasons identified for these cases to require a return to theatre despite having had IF included: (i) insufficient quality/views of IF, (ii) loss of position/new injury occurring in post-operative period and (iii) poor reduction/fixation demonstrated intraoperatively that was missed/accepted.

CONCLUSION

The use of post-operative radiographs can identify significant complications despite the use of IF in trauma patients. However, further consideration needs to be made regarding the benefits and costs of this practice in evaluating its clinical effectiveness.

Comparable dislocation and revision rates for patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty with subsequent or prior lumbar spinal fusion: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

There is a known correlation between the procedures of lumbar spinal fusion (LSF), total hip arthroplasty (THA) and the complication of hip dislocation and revision occurring in patients. However there is no consensus as to whether the risk of this complication is higher if THA is performed before or after LSF. This meta-analysis aims to determine the influence of surgical sequence of lumbar spinal fusion and total hip arthroplasty on the rates of hip dislocation and revisions.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted with a multi-database search (PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, Medline) according to PRISMA guidelines on 27th May 2020. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analyzed with an inverse variance statistical model.

FINDINGS

A total of 25,558 subsequent LSF and 43,880 prior LSF THA patients were included in this study. There was no statistically significant difference in all-cause revisions (OR = 0.86, 95%CI: 0.48-1.54, p = 0.61), dislocation (OR = 0.82, 95%CI: 0.25-2.72, p = 0.75) or aseptic loosening (OR = 1.14, 95%CI: 0.94-1.38, p = 0.17) when comparing patients receiving LSF subsequent versus prior to THA.

CONCLUSION

Lumbar spinal fusion remains a risk factor for dislocation and revision of total hip arthroplasties regardless of whether it is performed prior to or after THA. Further preoperative assessment and altered surgical technique may be required in patients having THA who have previously undergone or are likely to undergo LSF in the future.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

Level II, Meta-analysis of homogeneous studies.

Are hip movement precautions effective in preventing prosthesis dislocation post hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To determine if hip movement precautions reduce hip prosthesis dislocation rates post hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach compared to minimal or no movement restrictions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered prospectively. CINAHL, MEDLINE and Embase were searched from inception until September 2020 supplemented by citation tracking. Studies were included if patients had a hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach with comparative data on hip movement precautions or minimal to no movement restrictions. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Downs and Black checklist.

RESULTS

From a yield of 8 studies, meta-analysis of 7 studies and 9599 total hip arthroplasties, there was low quality evidence of no increased risk of dislocation (RR = 0.98, 95%CI 0.58 to 1.67) for patients prescribed minimal or no hip movement restrictions compared with patients prescribed hip movement precautions. There were 121/5440 dislocations (2.2%) in the movement precaution group and 90/4159 dislocations in the minimally restricted group (2.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Dislocation rates after total hip arthroplasty are low irrespective of movement precaution allocation. Resources allocated to implementing hip movement precautions may be better directed towards other clinical areas.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThere was no difference in hip prosthesis dislocation rate between patients who received hip movement precautions compared to patients who received minimal or no restrictions after total hip arthroplasty using a posterior surgical approach.Health professionals involved in prescribing and monitoring adherence to hip movement precautions after total hip arthroplasty may be better allocating their resources to other areas of clinical care.Falls were associated with the greatest number of prosthesis dislocations, accounting for 24% of dislocations; resources may be better allocated towards evidence-based strategies to reduce falls.

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty is comparable to conventional total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful procedure in managing end-stage arthritis when non-operative treatments fail. New technologies such as robotic TKA (rTKA) have been developed to improve the accuracy of prosthesis implantation. While short-term cohort studies on rTKA have shown excellent results, the evidence comparing between rTKA and conventional TKA (cTKA) is not yet well established. This meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy and safety of rTKA versus cTKA in terms of clinical outcomes, radiographic results, complications, peri-operative parameters and costs.

METHODS

A multi-database search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies comparing between rTKA and cTKA were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were included in this review, consisting of 2234 rTKA and 4300 cTKA. Robotic TKA led to a more precise prosthesis implantation with significantly fewer outliers in the mechanical axis (p < 0.001), femoral coronal (p = 0.002) and tibial sagittal (p = 0.01) alignments. Only the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) (p < 0.001) score at final follow-up was significantly better in rTKA than cTKA. rTKA also had a lower mean blood loss (p < 0.001) despite a longer mean operation time (p = 0.006). There were no statistically significant difference in terms of other clinical outcome measures, range of motion and complications.

CONCLUSION

Both rTKA and cTKA are reliable and safe to perform. However, rTKA is capable of achieving superior alignment in several axes, lower mean blood loss and this may lead to marginally better clinical outcomes than cTKA.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

Level II, Meta-analysis of non-homogeneous studies.

Association between physical activity and short-term physical function changes after hip fracture: An observational study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To investigate whether physical activity levels are predictive of short-term changes in physical function for people discharged to independent living in the community following withdrawal of rehabilitation services after hip fracture; and to describe short-term recovery in physical activity, physical function, walking confidence, health-related quality of life and walking participation.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study comprised 57 older adults (39 females, mean age 80.4, SD 8.4 years) living independently in the community after hip fracture. Accelerometer-based physical activity, physical function (Functional Independence Measure [FIM], de Morton Mobility Index, Frenchay Activities Index and Participation in outdoor walking), walking confidence and health-related quality of life were measured after discharge from rehabilitation services (baseline) and 12 weeks later. Multiple linear regression analyses determined the ability of physical activity (daily steps), walking self-confidence, health-related quality of life and demographic factors (age, sex and time since fracture) to predict Week 12 physical function using Week 0 physical function as a covariate.

RESULTS

Participants at baseline averaged 4439 daily steps which did not change 12 weeks later. There were small increases in all measures of physical function and walking confidence, but not health-related quality of life. Increased walking self-confidence was associated with an increase in FIM total, FIM mobility and de Morton Index scores. Physical activity did not predict change in measures of physical function.

CONCLUSIONS

Walking confidence of adults discharged from rehabilitation services after hip fracture had a greater association with short-term recovery of physical function than level of physical activity. Community-dwelling adults continue to make small short-term improvements in physical function and walking confidence after discharge home and withdrawal of rehabilitation services.

Sarcopenia in women with hip fracture: A comparison of hormonal biomarkers and their relationship to skeletal muscle mass and function

Objectives

Sarcopenia is a decline in skeletal muscle mass and function. It is associated with adverse outcomes and increased mortality. Sarcopenia is also reported to be prevalent in the hip fracture population. Our aims in this study are to compare the hormonal profile in women with hip fracture to controls, and to assess the relationship between hormonal biomarkers to skeletal muscle mass and function in these women.

Methods

A cross sectional study was performed enrolling women above age 60 years old with hip fracture as a study group. For comparison healthy women from the community were recruited. Peripheral blood samples were obtained for analysis of hormonal profiles. Measures of skeletal muscle mass and function by muscle area on computed tomography, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and grip strength was performed.

Results

A high proportion of sarcopenic individuals were detected in the hip fracture group (60%). Women with hip fracture compared to controls were older (P = 0.073), had lower serum albumin levels (P < 0.001), serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) (P < 0.001), insulin-like growth factor binding protein -3 (IGFBP-3) (P < 0.001), free testosterone levels (P = 0.001), and impaired beta cell function by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA beta) (P = 0.038).

Conclusions

There is a high proportion of sarcopenic individuals in the hip fracture group. Lowered serum levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3, HOMA beta cell function, and free testosterone levels were detected in this group and may serve as potential biomarkers of sarcopenia.

A Combined Randomised and Observational Study of Surgery for Fractures In the distal Radius in the Elderly (CROSSFIRE): a statistical analyses plan

Background

We are performing a combined randomised and observational study comparing internal fixation to non-surgical management for common wrist fractures in older patients. This paper describes the statistical analysis plan.

Methods/design

A Combined Randomised and Observational Study of Surgery for Fractures In the distal Radius in the Elderly (CROSSFIRE) is a randomised controlled trial comparing two types of usual care for treating wrist fractures in older patients, surgical fixation using volar locking plates and non-surgical treatment using closed reduction and plaster immobilisation. The primary aim of this comparative-effectiveness study is to determine whether surgery is superior to non-surgical treatment with respect to patient-reported wrist function at 12 months post treatment. The secondary outcomes include radiographic outcomes, complication rates and patient-reported outcomes including quality of life, pain, treatment success and cosmesis. Primary analysis will use a two-sample t test and an intention-to-treat analysis using the randomised arm of the study. Statistical analyses will be two-tailed and significance will be determined by p < 0.05. Sensitivity analyses will be conducted to assess for differences in intention-to-treat, per-protocol and as-treated analyses. Sensitivity analyses will also be conducted to assess selection bias by evaluating differences in participants between the randomised and observational study arms, and for bias relating to any missing data. An economic analysis will be conducted separately if surgery is shown to provide superior outcomes to a level of clinical significance.

Discussion

This statistical analysis plan describes the analysis of the CROSSFIRE study which aims to provide evidence to aid clinical decision-making in the treatment of distal radius fractures in older patients.

Trial registration

CROSSFIRE was approved by The Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee (HNEHREC Reference No: 16/02/17/3.04). Registered on 22 July 2016 with The Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR Number; ACTRN12616000969460).

This manuscript is based on v.11 of the statistical analysis plan. A copy of v.11, signed by the chief investigator and the senior statistician is kept at the administering institution.

Comparable outcomes in mini-midvastus versus mini-medial parapatellar approach in total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques in total knee arthroplasties (TKA) have gained popularity over conventional techniques due to benefits of hastened recovery and reduced complications. There are a variety of MIS techniques available and two most common techniques currently employed are the mini-midvastus (mMV) and mini-medial parapatellar (mMPP) approaches. This meta-analysis aims to compare the clinical outcomes and peri-operative parameters between mMV and mMPP in TKA in order to determine the presence of a superior technique.

METHODS

A multi-database search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies comparing clinical outcomes and peri-operative parameters between mMV and mMPP approaches in TKA were extracted and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of five randomized controlled trials were included for analysis, consisting of 190 mMV and 189 mMPP knees. Clinically unimportant differences were noted in blood loss and surgical time between the groups (5 mL less blood loss and 7 min less surgical time in mMV, P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups for Knee Society Score at 1 and 2 years, range of motion at 1 and 2 years, incision length or incidence of lateral retinacular release (all non-significant, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The mMV and mMPP MIS TKA approaches have equivalent clinical outcomes. Despite a statistically significant longer operative time and higher mean blood loss in mMV than mMPP approach, clinically significant difference was not demonstrated. Both mMV and mMPP MIS techniques are reliable and safe to perform in TKA.

Discharge destination and patient-reported outcomes after inpatient treatment for isolated lower limb fractures

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between discharge destination (home or inpatient rehabilitation) for adult patients treated in hospital for isolated lower limb fractures and patient-reported outcomes.

DESIGN

Review of prospectively collected Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) data.

SETTING, PARTICIPANTS

Adults (18-64 years old) treated for isolated lower limb fractures at four Melbourne trauma hospitals that contribute data to the VOTOR, 1 March 2007 - 31 March 2016.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Return to work and functional recovery (assessed with the extended Glasgow Outcomes Scale, GOS-E); propensity score analysis of association between discharge destination and outcome.

RESULTS

Of 7961 eligible patients, 1432 (18%) were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and 6775 (85%) were followed up 12 months after their injuries. After propensity score adjustment, the odds of better functional recovery were 56% lower for patients discharged to inpatient rehabilitation than for those discharged directly home (odds ratio, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.37-0.51); for the 5057 people working before their accident, the odds of return to work were reduced by 66% (odds ratio, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.26-0.46). Propensity score analysis improved matching of the discharge destination groups, but imbalances in funding source remained for both outcome analyses, and for also for site and cause of injury in the GOS-E analysis (standardised differences, 10-16%).

CONCLUSIONS

Discharge to inpatient rehabilitation after treatment for isolated lower limb fractures was associated with poorer outcomes than discharge home. Factors that remained unbalanced after propensity score analysis could be assessed in controlled trials.

Suture button versus syndesmosis screw constructs for acute ankle diastasis injuries: A meta-analysis and systematic review of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Ankle syndesmotic injuries can be surgically managed with syndesmosis screws (SS) or suture button (SB) fixation. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aiming to compare the clinical and complication profiles of both modalities.

METHODS

A multi-database search up to 4th of March 2018 was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. All RCTs comparing both techniques and published in English were included.

RESULTS

Five RCTs with a total of 280 patients (140 SB, 140 SS) were included for analysis. SB had a statistically significant higher AOFAS score at 1 year (mean difference=5.46, 95% CI=0.40-10.51, p=0.03) and lower implant failure rate (OR=0.03, 95% CI=0.01-0.15, p<0.001). Infection and wound issues were marginally higher with SB (OR=1.4, 95% CI=0.4-4.85, p=0.60). No other parameters showed statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Both constructs yielded similar clinical outcomes. The 1 year AOFAS score was higher in SB but clinical significance is unlikely. SB had significantly fewer implant failures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Greater risks of complications, infections, and revisions in the obese versus non-obese total hip arthroplasty population of 2,190,824 patients: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Obesity is an epidemic, especially in developed countries. This affects the general health of these patients, especially when they are having a major surgical procedure such as total hip arthroplasty (THA). Several articles have described the effects of obesity on THA with varying conclusions. This meta-analysis aims to compare the outcomes, complications, and peri-operative parameters of THA in the obese (BMI≥30 kg/m²) vs non-obese (BMI<30 kg/m²) population as well as a subgroup analysis of morbidly obese (BMI≥40 kg/m²) vs non-obese population.

METHODS

A multi-database search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies assessing the outcomes and complications of THA in the obese and non-obese population were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven studies were included in this meta-analysis, consisting of 581,012 obese and 1,609,812 non-obese patients. Meta-analysis could not be performed on patient reported outcome measures due to heterogeneous reporting methods. Obese patients had a higher risk of all complications (OR = 1.53, 95%CI: 1.30-1.80, P < 0.001), deep infections (OR = 2.71, 95%CI: 2.08-3.53, P < 0.001), superficial infections (OR = 1.99, 95%CI: 1.55-2.55, P < 0.001), dislocations (OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.66-1.79, P < 0.001), reoperations (OR = 1.61, 95%CI: 1.40-1.85, P < 0.001), revisions (OR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.32-1.57, P < 0.001), and readmissions (OR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.15-1.63, P < 0.001). When sub-group analysis of morbidly obese (BMI≥40 kg/m²) patients was performed, the risks of all these parameters were even greater.

CONCLUSION

Obese and morbidly obese patients are at higher risks of complications post THA than non-obese patients. Surgeons should be aware of these risks in order to counsel patients and adopt prophylactic strategies to reduce these risks where applicable.

Clinical outcomes and complication profile of total hip arthroplasty after lumbar spine fusion: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Hip and spine pathology can alter the biomechanics of spino-pelvic mobility. Lumbar spine fusions can reduce the mobility of the lumbar spine and therefore result in compensatory femoral motion, contributing towards dislocations of THA.

PURPOSE

This meta-analysis aims to determine the effect of pre-existing spine fusions on THA outcomes, and complication profile including hip dislocations, all-cause revisions and all complications.

METHODS

A multi-database search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. All studies that compared patients who underwent THA with and without prior SF were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included in this review, consisting of 28,396 SF THA patients and 1,550,291 non-SF THA patients. There were statistically significant higher rates of hip dislocation (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.71-2.85, p < 0.001), all-cause revision (OR 3.43, 95% CI 1.96-6.00, p < 0.001) and all complications (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.28-6.24, p = 0.01) in SF than in non-SF THA patients. When registry data were excluded, these rates were approximately doubled. Subgroup analysis of revisions for dislocations was not statistically significant (OR 5.28, 95% CI 0.76-36.87, p = 0.09). While no meta-analysis was performed on clinical outcomes due to heterogeneous parameter reporting, individual studies reported significantly poorer outcomes in SF patients than in non-SF patients.

CONCLUSION

THA patients with SF are at higher risks of hip dislocations, all-cause revisions and all complications, which may adversely affect patient-reported outcomes. Surgeons should be aware of these risks and appropriately plan to account for altered spino-pelvic biomechanics, in order to reduce the risks of hip dislocations and other complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II (Meta-analysis of non-homogeneous studies). These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

The Efficacy and Safety of Inpatient Rehabilitation Compared With Home Discharge After Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Total hip and knee arthroplasties (THKAs) are successful procedures in managing end-stage arthritis when nonoperative treatments fail. The immediate postoperative period is an important time for the body to recuperate and rehabilitate. Studies have shown that early intensive rehabilitation can enhance recovery. Rehabilitation can be provided as inpatient rehabilitation (IR) or discharge with home rehabilitation. These options have been studied, but literature on the efficacy and safety of IR compared to home discharge is scarce, and evidence is not well established. This meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy and safety of IR to home discharge with rehabilitation after THKA.

METHODS

A multidatabase search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies assessing the efficacy and safety of IR and home as discharge destinations after THKA were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were included, consisting of 37,411 IR patients and 172,219 home discharge patients. These studies had heterogeneous reporting methods, with some conflicting results. There was no clinically significant difference in clinical outcomes between the groups. Readmission was nearly 5 times (odds ratio = 4.87, 95% confidence interval = 3.24-7.33, P < .001) and periprosthetic complications nearly 3 times (odds ratio = 2.82, 95% confidence interval: 1.54-5.24, P < .001) higher in IR patients than those discharged home after THKA.

CONCLUSION

Although IR is associated with higher risks of complications and readmissions, this may be because of patient selection bias in the clinical setting. Following THKA, it is safe to discharge patients to home with rehabilitation whenever possible.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

Level II, Meta-analysis of heterogeneous studies.

Direct supervision of physiotherapists improves compliance with clinical practice guidelines for patients with hip fracture: a controlled before-and-after study

Purpose: To determine if the addition of direct supervision to usual clinical supervision practice of physiotherapists can improve compliance with clinical practice guidelines and post-surgical outcomes for inpatients with hip fracture.Methods: A controlled before-and-after study was conducted on two acute orthopedic wards. Junior and mid-level physiotherapists on one ward were provided with direct supervision during their post-operative management of patients with hip fracture. Physiotherapists on the comparison ward received usual reflective supervision. The primary outcome was patient compliance with the hip fracture guideline to mobilize on the day following surgery. Secondary patient outcomes included physical function on the fifth post-operative day.Results: Data were collected from 290 patients with acute hip fracture. Patients at the direct supervision site were more likely to mobilize on the day after surgery [OR 3.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-7.01; p = 0.005] and by the second post-operative day (OR 4.62, 95% CI 2.31-9.23; p < 0.001) compared to patients at the comparison site. Patients walked further on the fifth post-operative day (p < 0.001) with less assistance from therapists (p = 0.044).Conclusions: The addition of direct supervision improved physiotherapists' compliance with hip fracture guidelines and walking endurance and independence in hospitalized patients with hip fracture.Implications for rehabilitationThe addition of a direct supervision model, where physiotherapists are directly observed in their management of patients with hip fracture, to usual practice supervision improved early mobilization of patients with hip fractureDirect supervision appears to be an effective guideline implementation strategy that can improve care and outcomes for hospitalized patients with hip fracture.

Optimal position of lipped acetabular liners to improve stability in total hip arthroplasty-an intraoperative in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Lipped or elevated acetabular liners are frequently used in total hip arthroplasty to improve stability. However, the optimal position of the lip is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal position of lipped acetabular liners in total hip arthroplasty performed with a posterior approach.

METHODS

In 14 hips, lipped trial liners were placed intraoperatively in various positions around the posterior clock-face of the implanted acetabular shell component. For each liner position, stability of the hip was tested at maximal hip flexion with gradually increasing internal rotation until subluxation occurred, at which point the position of the hip was measured using smartphone accelerometer-based goniometers. Smartphone goniometers were first validated against a computer-assisted navigation system. Post-operative radiographs were analyzed for cup inclination angle, cup anteversion angle, and femoral offset.

RESULTS

Mean cup inclination angle in our series was 31° ± 6°. The most common liner position that imparted the greatest stability to posterior subluxation was posteriorly and inferiorly (4 o'clock position for left hip, or 8 o'clock position for right hip). The range for most stable liner position for different patients varied from postero-superior (11 o'clock/1 o'clock position) to directly inferior (6 o'clock position). Comparing a non-lipped liner to a lipped liner placed in the optimal position, the average difference in internal rotation gained before dislocation was 23°. There was no association between cup inclination or anteversion angle with liner position of greatest stability.

CONCLUSION

In hip replacements performed through a posterior approach and with mean cup inclination angle of 31° ± 6°, placing the lip of the elevated liner in the postero-inferior quadrant may impart more stability than in the postero-superior quadrant.

A feasibility study of brain-targeted treatment for people with painful knee osteoarthritis in tertiary care

Purpose: To assess the feasibility and clinical impact of brain-targeted treatment (BT; aiming to target sensorimotor processing) in knee osteoarthritis patients attending tertiary care. Methods: Randomized replicated case series. The study involved three phases, each of 2 weeks duration: (1) no-treatment phase; (2) BT phase (left/right judgments and touch discrimination training); and (3) usual care (education, strengthening, and stretching training). Primary outcomes were: timely recruitment; number of participants completing the interventions; treatment compliance and barriers; follow-up rates; and treatment impact on pain and function. Fear-avoidance beliefs and clinical measures of cortical body representation (tactile acuity and left/right judgment performance) were secondary outcomes. Results: A total of 5% (19/355) of all assessed patients were eligible to participate and of these, 58% (11/19) agreed to participate. Ten patients completed the study, and 9 were successfully followed up, with treatment compliance varying between interventions. Compliance was poor for the touch discrimination component of BT. No significant effects were observed for pain relief or knee function after any treatment. A positive impact of treatment was found for fear-avoidance beliefs (usual care vs. washout, p = 0.007; BT vs. washout, p = 0.029) and left/right judgment accuracy (usual care vs. washout; p = 0.006). Conclusions: Clear barriers were identified to implementing BT in tertiary care for knee osteoarthritis. Access to all available services (especially the use of interpreters), and treatment options that do not require additional assistance to perform (e.g., touch discrimination training) represent the main lessons learned.

Epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic knee dislocations: Isolated vs multi-trauma injuries

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Traumatic dislocation of the knee (TKD) is a rare injury, accounting for approximately 0.02% of orthopaedic injuries. They are a challenging entity for orthopaedic surgeons to manage, and can have devastating consequences. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology of traumatic knee dislocations (TKD'S) and contrast the incidence of neurovascular injury between isolated and multi-trauma dislocations as well as key patient reported outcomes achieved between these groups.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients who had a traumatic disruption of the tibiofemoral articulation between March 1 2007 and February 31, 2015 were identified from the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR). Data was cross-checked with medical records and radiological reports to confirm true multi-ligamentous dislocation. VOTOR collects information pertaining to orthopaedic injuries, treatment, complications and outcomes from four adult hospitals in Victoria, Australia, including the major trauma centers. Patient-reported outcomes are collected by VOTOR at 12 months post-injury including the EQ-5D-3L (EQ-5D) and Glasgow Extended Outcome Scores (GOS-E) and return to work status. Patient reported functional and quality of life outcomes at 12 months after injury were analysed.

RESULTS

A cohort of 88 patients were identified that fit the inclusion criteria for the study, and at 12 months post-injury there was data available for 80 patients (90.9%). There were 38 (42.9%) patients who experienced an isolated traumatic knee dislocation and 52 (57.1%) who experienced a traumatic knee dislocation in association with another injury. Of the 88 patients identified as eligible for the study, two had bilateral knee dislocations, hence there were 90 multi-ligamentous knee injuries. Those who were injured at a higher velocity were more likely to have additional injuries. Dislocations that occurred at a lower velocity were shown to have better overall outcomes, as did dislocations that occurred in isolation.

CONCLUSIONS

Traumatic knee dislocations that occur in isolation typically result in better outcomes than those that occur with associated injuries. TKD's are a rare but severe injury that requires further research in order for functional outcomes to be optimized.

Discharge from the acute hospital: trauma patients' perceptions of care

Objective The involvement of orthopaedic trauma patients in the decision-making regarding discharge destination from the acute hospital and their perceptions of the care following discharge are poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate orthopaedic trauma patient experiences of discharge from the acute hospital and transition back into the community. Methods The present qualitative study performed in-depth interviews, between October 2012 and November 2013, with patients aged 18-64 years with lower limb trauma. Thematic analysis was used to derive important themes. Results Ninety-four patients were interviewed, including 35 discharged to in-patient rehabilitation. Key themes that emerged include variable involvement in decision-making regarding discharge, lack of information and follow-up care on discharge and varying opinions regarding in-patient rehabilitation. Readiness for discharge from in-patient rehabilitation also differed widely among patients, with patients often reporting being ready for discharge before the planned discharge date and feeling frustration at the need to stay in in-patient care. There was also a difference in patients' perception of the factors leading to recovery, with patients discharged to rehabilitation more commonly reporting external factors, such as rehabilitation providers and physiotherapy. Conclusion The insights provided by the participants in the present study will help us improve our discharge practice, especially the need to address the concerns of inadequate information provision regarding discharge and the role of in-patient rehabilitation. What is known about the topic? There is no current literature describing trauma patient involvement in decision-making regarding discharge from the acute hospital and the perception of how this decision (and destination choice; e.g. home or in-patient rehabilitation) affects their outcome. What does this paper add? The present large qualitative study provides information on patients' opinion of discharge from the acute hospital following trauma and how this could be improved from their perception. Patients are especially concerned with the lack of information provided to them on discharge, their lack of involvement and understanding of the choices made with regard to their discharge and describe concerns regarding their follow-up care. There is also a feeling from the patients that they are ready to leave rehabilitation before their actual planned discharge date, a concept that needs further investigation. What are the implications for practitioners? The patient insights gained by the present study will lead to a change in discharge practice, including increased involvement of the patient in the decision-making in terms of discharge from both the acute and rehabilitation hospitals and a raised awareness of the need to provide written information and follow-up telephone calls to patients following discharge. Further research into many aspects of patient discharge from the acute hospital should be considered, including the use of rehabilitation prediction tools to ensure patient involvement in decision-making and a discharge and/or follow-up coordinator to ensure patients are aware of how to access information after discharge.

Clinicians' perceptions of decision making regarding discharge from public hospitals to in-patient rehabilitation following trauma

Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate the perceptions of consultant surgeons, allied health clinicians and rehabilitation consultants regarding discharge destination decision making from the acute hospital following trauma. Methods A qualitative study was performed using individual in-depth interviews of clinicians in Victoria (Australia) between April 2013 and September 2014. Thematic analysis was used to derive important themes. Case studies provided quantitative information to enhance the information gained via interviews. Results Thirteen rehabilitation consultants, eight consultant surgeons and 13 allied health clinicians were interviewed. Key themes that emerged included the importance of financial considerations as drivers of decision making and the perceived lack of involvement of medical staff in decisions regarding discharge destination following trauma. Other themes included the lack of consistency of factors thought to be important drivers of discharge and the difficulty in acting on trauma patients' requests in terms of discharge destination. Importantly, as the complexity of the patient increases in terms of acquired brain injury, the options for rehabilitation become scarcer. Conclusions The information gained in the present study highlights the large variation in discharge practises between and within clinical groups. Further consultation with stakeholders involved in the care of trauma patients, as well as government bodies involved in hospital funding, is needed to derive a more consistent approach to discharge destination decision making. What is known about the topic? Little is known about the drivers for referral to, or acceptance at, in-patient rehabilitation following acute hospital care for traumatic injury in Victoria, Australia, including who makes these decisions of behalf of patients and how these decisions are made. What does this paper add? This paper provides information regarding the perceptions of acute hospital consultant surgeons and allied health, as well as rehabilitation clinicians, in terms of discharge destination decision making from the acute hospital following trauma. The use of case studies further highlights differences between, and within, these specialities with regard to this decision making. This research also highlights the importance of financial considerations as drivers of decision making, and the lack of consistency of the factors thought to be important drivers of discharge between these different clinical groupings. What are the implications for practitioners? This research shows that financial factors are significant drivers of discharge destination decision making for trauma patients. The present study highlights opportunities to engage with stakeholders (acute care, rehabilitation, administration, government and patients) to develop more consistent discharge processes that optimise the use of rehabilitation resources for those patients who could benefit from in-patient rehabilitation.

Predictors of recovery in cyclists hospitalised for orthopaedic trauma following an on-road crash

BACKGROUND

As cycling-related injury rates are on the rise, there is a need to understand the long term outcomes of these patients in order to quantify the burden of injury and to inform injury prevention strategies. This study aimed to investigate predictors of return to work and functional recovery in a cohort of cyclists hospitalised for orthopaedic trauma from crashes occurring on-road.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of data from the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) was conducted for patients who were hospitalised for orthopaedic trauma following a cycling crash that occurred on-road between July 2007 and June 2015.

RESULTS

There were 1787 injured cyclists admitted at the participating hospitals. Most cyclists were male (79%), resided in major cities (89%) and were in the highest socioeconomic quintile (52%). The majority of crashes were either non-collisions (41%) or collisions with a motor vehicle (35%). A smaller proportion of cyclists who collided with motor vehicles had returned to work and had returned to pre-injury functional levels at 12 months post-injury, when compared to collisions with other impact counterparts and non-collisions. Mixed effects logistic regression models revealed that compensable patients demonstrated lower odds of complete functional recovery and return to work when compared with non-compensable patients.

CONCLUSION

Cyclists who collided with motor vehicles had worse outcomes compared to crashes with other impact counterparts and non-collision events. These findings provide support for reducing the potential for interaction between cyclists and motor vehicles.

A combined randomised and observational study of surgery for fractures in the distal radius in the elderly (CROSSFIRE)-a study protocol

Fractures of the distal radius are common and occur in all age groups. The incidence is high in older populations due to osteoporosis and increased falls risk. Considerable practice variation exists in the management of distal radius fractures in older patients ranging from closed reduction with cast immobilisation to open reduction with plate fixation. Plating is currently the most common surgical treatment. While there is evidence showing no significant advantage for some forms of surgical fixation over conservative treatment, and no difference between different surgical techniques, there is a lack of evidence comparing two of the most common treatments used: closed reduction and casting versus plating. Surgical management involves significant costs and risks compared with conservative management. High-level evidence is required to address practice variation, justify costs and to provide the best clinical outcomes for patients.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This pragmatic, multicentre randomised comparative effectiveness trial aims to determine whether plating leads to better pain and function and is more cost-effective than closed reduction and casting of displaced distal radius fractures in adults aged 60 years and older. The trial will compare the two techniques but will also follow consenting patients who are unwilling to be randomised in a separate, observational cohort. Inclusion of non-randomised patients addresses selection bias, provides practice and outcome insights about standard care, and improves the generalisability of the results from the randomised trial.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

CROSSFIRE(Combined Randomised and Observational Study of Surgery for Fractures In the distal Radius in the Elderly) was reviewed and approved by The Hunter New England HREC (HNEHREC Reference No: 16/02/17/3.04). The results of the trial will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be disseminated via various forms of media. Results will be incorporated in clinical recommendations and practice guidelines produced by professional bodies.

REGISTRATION

CROSSFIRE has been registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR: ACTRN12616000969460).

Maximum Tolerated Dose of Walking for Community-Dwelling People Recovering From Hip Fracture: A Dose-Response Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine how much moderate-intensity physical activity, in the form of walking, could be prescribed for people living in the community after hip fracture in terms of safety, tolerability, and feasibility.

DESIGN

Phase I dose-response design.

SETTING

Public community rehabilitation centers.

PARTICIPANTS

Community-dwelling adults (N=21; 16 women; mean age, 75±9y) who were cognitively alert, attending community rehabilitation after hip fracture (mean days postfracture, 110±47d), able to walk with or without a gait aid, and for whom it was safe to participate in physical activity.

INTERVENTIONS

Individually supervised doses of moderate-intensity walking completed in 1 week in addition to their usual levels of physical activity. Three participants were required to complete a dose of walking before dose escalation for the next cohort of 3 participants. Dose escalation ceased when >1 participant in a cohort had an adverse event or was unable to tolerate the dose or if the maximum dose of 150min/wk was achieved.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Maximum tolerated dose of walking per week (in minutes), adverse events, mobility, and walking confidence.

RESULTS

The maximum tolerated dose of walking for adults after hip fracture before significant discomfort was experienced (eg, breathlessness, pain, and fatigue) by any participant was 100min/wk. No adverse events occurred, but participants began to be unable to tolerate higher doses beyond 100min/wk.

CONCLUSIONS

This provides preliminary evidence that community-dwelling older adults recovering from hip fracture can complete a sufficient amount of moderate-intensity physical activity to maintain and improve their health.

Patient reported health related quality of life early outcomes at 12 months after surgically managed tibial plafond fracture

INTRODUCTION

Tibial plafond fractures represent a small but complex subset of fractures of the lower limb. The aim of this study was to describe the health related quality of life, pain and return to work outcomes 12 months following surgically managed tibial plafond fracture.

METHODS

The Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) database was used to identify patients with tibial plafond fractures. All patients captured by VOTOR with a tibial plafond fracture between September 2003 and July 2009, were identified consecutively and comprised the initial cohort. The radiographs of all identified patients were classified using the AO/OTA fracture classification. A review of the included patient's medical records was performed. Data were collected on the injury event, management and complications. Outcomes at 12 months were prospectively collected by telephone interview and included return to work, a numerical rating scale for assessment of pain and the Short Form 12 (SF-12).

RESULTS

There were 98 unilateral tibial plafond fractures; 91 fractures were managed operatively, 4 non-operatively and 3 underwent amputation. The 91 operatively managed patients were the focus of this study. A two-stage management approach, involving temporary external fixation, followed by definitive open reduction and internal fixation, was the most common operative treatment. The follow-up rate at 12 months was 70%. 57% had returned to work by 12 months post-injury, the median (IQR) pain score was 2 (0-5) and 27% reported moderate to severe persistent pain. Mean PCS-12 scores were significantly lower than Australian norms (p=0.99), 38.2 for males and 37.5 for females.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of persistent pain, loss of physical health and a low return to work rate highlights the profound impact of tibial plafond fractures on patients' lives. Although this study looked at the early 12 month results, it is expected these outcomes will continue to improve over time. Further studies, with larger patient numbers, must focus on how to improve not only the operative management of these fractures, but also patient's mental and overall physical health in the long term. Improved management techniques and early identification of injury patterns known to perform poorly may help long-term outcomes.

Twelve-month work-related outcomes following hip fracture in patients under 65 years of age

INTRODUCTION

Recent research has highlighted the need for improved outcome reporting in younger hip fracture patients. For this population, return to work (RTW) is a particularly important measure against which to evaluate treatment outcomes. However, to date, only two small studies have reported RTW outcomes in young hip fracture patients and neither investigated factors predictive of RTW. The aims of this study were to report return to work (RTW) status and predictors of RTW 12 months after hip fracture in patients <65 years.

METHODS

Two hundred and ninety-one adults aged <65 years, admitted with hip fractures between July 2009 and June 2013 and registered by the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) were included in this prospective cohort study. Twelve-month return to work status was collected through structured telephone interviews conducted by trained interviewers. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify demographic and injury variables that were important predictors of 12-month work status.

RESULTS

Sixty-five per-cent of patients had returned to work 12 months after hip fracture (62% of whom had an isolated hip fracture and 38% of whom had additional injuries). Relative to patients aged 16-24 years, odds of RTW was reduced by 78%-89% for each 10-year increase in age (p=0.02). Relative to patients employed as managers/administrators/professionals, odds of RTW were 68% to 95% lower for all other workers (p<0.001). For those reporting a pre-injury disability, odds of RTW were 79% lower compared to those without disability (p=0.004) and 69% lower for patients with multiple injuries compared to isolated hip fracture patients (p=0.002). Finally, patients compensated by a work or transport insurer had a 67% lower odds of RTW relative to patients who were not compensated (p=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately one third of patients <65years had not returned to work 12 months after hip fracture. Patients who are older, have multiple injuries or pre-existing disabilities or who work in more physical occupations may need more assistance to RTW following hip fracture. The compensation system should be examined to determine why compensated patients may be at risk of poor RTW outcomes.

Validity and reliability of an activity monitor to quantify arm movements and activity in adults following distal radius fracture

PURPOSE

To examine the validity and reliability of an activity monitor to estimate upper limb activity.

METHODS

Thirty-two adults after distal radial fracture were recruited. 15 adults performed five upper limb activities during two testing sessions, one week apart to investigate criterion validity against the criterion reference of three-dimensional motion analysis, convergent validity, and test-retest reliability. 17 adults in two therapy groups wore monitors for three consecutive days at baseline and six weeks post-intervention. Hypothesis testing (noninferiority) assessed comparison of group differences.

RESULTS

There were large, significant positive correlations between monitor counts and motion analysis for affected/unaffected wrists during the grocery shelving [r = 0.82, r = 0.73, respectively] and floor sweeping activities [r = 0.54, r = 0.59, respectively]. Large confidence intervals relative to means suggests the monitor could not accurately predict motion analysis distance or acceleration. Relative reliability was excellent in affected/unaffected wrists for crank ergometer [ICC_(2,1) = 0.91, ICC_(2,1) = 0.88, respectively], grocery shelving [ICC_(2,1) = 0.83, ICC_(2,1) = 0.89, respectively], and table dusting activities [ICC_(2,1) = 0.77, ICC_(2,1) = 0.83, respectively]. Correlations and reliability for typing were poor; hypothesis testing of group equivalence was not confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

There is preliminary evidence that an activity monitor is a valid and reliable tool to measure gross arm activity after distal radial fracture. Implications for Rehabilitation Distal radius fractures are one of the most common upper limb fractures that cause activity limitations and participation restrictions. After a distal radius fracture patients are often referred to therapy (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, hand therapy) for rehabilitation to return to pre-injury function and activity levels. Activity monitors may be a valid and reliable measurement tool that therapists can use with their patients to quantify gross arm activity to enable monitoring of injury recovery and rehabilitation adherence. Activity monitors may not be sufficiently reliable and valid to monitor fine movements of the wrist and hand after distal radius fracture.

Reflective Blankets Are as Effective as Forced Air Warmers in Maintaining Patient Normothermia During Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Surgery

BACKGROUND

The use of forced air warming devices in the operating room has been shown to cause disruption of laminar airflow and a potential for increase in surgical site contamination. In contrast, conductive warming devices such as reflective blankets do not disrupt airflow and therefore have no potential for this increase in surgical site infection. However, some studies have shown them to be inferior to forced air warming devices in maintaining normothermia. We tested the hypothesis that the use of reflective blankets is as effective as forced air warming devices in maintaining intraoperative normothermia after adequate prewarming.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, controlled trial of 50 patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty using a protocol of prewarming followed by application of either forced air warming device or a reflective blanket and recording the patients sublingual temperature at a 15-minute interval till arrival in the post-anesthesia care unit.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the sublingual temperatures in the 2 groups at any time point.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that after a period of adequate prewarming, the use of reflective blankets is as effective as the use of forced air warming devices in maintaining normothermia in patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty.

Twelve-month outcomes following surgical repair of the Achilles tendon

INTRODUCTION

Incidence of Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) has increased over recent years, and debate regarding optimal management has been widely documented. Most papers have focused on surgical success, complications and short term region-specific outcomes. Inconsistent use of standardised outcome measures following surgical ATR repair has made it difficult to evaluate the impact of ATR on a patient's health status post-surgery, and to compare this to other injury types. This study aimed to report the frequency of surgical repairs of the Achilles tendon over a five-year period within an orthopaedic trauma registry, and to investigate return to work (RTW) status, health status and functional outcomes at 12 months post-surgical repair of the Achilles tendon.

METHODS

Two hundred and four adults registered by the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) who underwent surgical repair of the Achilles tendon between July 2009 and June 2014 were included in this prospective cohort study. The Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS-E), 3-level European Quality of Life 5 Dimension measure (EQ-5D-3L), and RTW status 12 months following surgical ATR repair were collected through structured telephone interviews conducted by trained interviewers.

RESULTS

At 12 months, 92% of patients were successfully followed up. Of those working prior to injury, 95% had returned to work. 42% of patients reported a full recovery on the GOS-E scale. The prevalence of problems on the EQ-5D-3L at 12 months was 0.5% for self-care, 11% for anxiety, 13% for mobility, 16% for activity, and 22% for pain. 16% of patients reported problems with more than one domain. The number of surgical repairs of the Achilles tendon within the VOTOR registry decreased by 68% over the five-year study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, patients recover well following surgical repair of the Achilles tendon. However, in this study, deficits in function persisted for over half of patients at 12 months post-injury. The decreased incidence of surgical Achilles tendon repair may reflect a change in practice at VOTOR hospitals whereby surgery may be becoming less favoured for initial ATR management.

A progressive exercise and structured advice program does not improve activity more than structured advice alone following a distal radial fracture: a multi-centre, randomised trial

QUESTION

Does a program of exercise and structured advice implemented during the rehabilitation phase following a distal radial fracture achieve better recovery of upper limb activity than structured advice alone?

DESIGN

A phase I/II, multi-centre, randomised, controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding and intention-to-treat analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-three adults (25 female, mean age 54 years) following distal radial fracture managed in a cast.

INTERVENTION

The experimental intervention was a 6-week program of progressive exercise and structured advice implemented over three consultations by a physiotherapist. The control intervention was a program of structured advice only, delivered by a physiotherapist over three consultations.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was upper limb activity limitations, assessed by the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation and the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand outcome measure (QuickDASH). The secondary outcomes were wrist range of movement, grip strength and pain. All measures were completed at baseline (week 0), after the intervention (week 7) and at 6 months (week 24).

RESULTS

There were no significant between-group differences in upper limb activity as measured by the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation at week 7 and week 24 assessments (mean difference -4 units, 95% CI -10 to 2; mean difference 0 units, 95% CI -3 to 3, respectively), or QuickDASH at week 7 and week 24 assessments (mean difference -5 units, 95% CI -16 to 6; mean difference 0.3 units, 95% CI -6 to 7, respectively). The secondary outcomes did not demonstrate any significant between-group effects.

CONCLUSION

The prescription of exercise in addition to a structured advice program over three physiotherapy consultations may convey no extra benefit following distal radial fracture managed in a cast.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12612000118808. [Bruder AM, Shields N, Dodd KJ, Hau R, Taylor NF (2016) A progressive exercise and structured advice program does not improve activity more than structured advice alone following a distal radial fracture: a multi-centre, randomised trial.Journal of Physiotherapy62: 145-152].

Surgical management of Mason type III radial head fractures

The evidence for optimal management of Mason type III fracture of radial head is unclear hence a systematic review of the published literature was performed in April 2012. This review includes 5 prospective studies (including 2 randomized trials), 4 retrospective studies and 9 case series. No study can be interpreted as level 1 evidence. Level 2 and 3 evidence provides some insight into the success of each modality through subjective and objective measurements of function and complication rates. Radial head replacement, open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and radial head resection all provide satisfactory outcomes for patients in most cases. One treatment modality cannot be recommended over any other due to the small number of clinical trials and cases included in each study. Further randomized control trials are needed to evaluate the full benefits and shortcomings of each of the different surgical treatment modalities.