Orthogonal plating of distal femur fractures: A biomechanical comparison with plate-nail and parallel plating constructs

Purpose

This study compared the biomechanical properties of orthogonal plating with plate-nail and parallel plating constructs for supracondylar distal femur fractures.

Methods

A supracondylar distal femur fracture was simulated using 15 synthetic osteoporotic femurs. Constructs included: (1) plate-nail (lateral locked distal femoral plate + retrograde intramedullary nail); (2) parallel plating (lateral locked distal femoral plate + medial 4.0 mm compression plate); and (3) orthogonal plating (lateral locked distal femoral plate + posterior one-third tubular plate). Specimens underwent nondestructive loading, fatigue loading, and loading to failure. Gapping at the fracture was measured using a three-dimensional motion capture system. Baseline torsional and axial stiffness, stiffness and strain after fatigue loading, and load to failure were determined. A case example of orthogonal plating is also presented.

Results

There was no difference in baseline torsional (p = 0.51) and axial stiffness (p = 0.53). Stiffness after fatigue loading was highest with parallel plating, with no difference between the plate-nail and orthogonal plating constructs (p = 0.84). Strain after fatigue loading was lowest in the parallel plating group (0.54 ± 0.19%), followed by the plate-nail (2.89 ± 0.83%) and orthogonal plating groups (3.04 ± 0.51%).

Conclusion

Orthogonal plating demonstrated comparable baseline stiffness to plate-nail and parallel plating constructs, and similar biomechanical performance in fatigue loading to plate-nail constructs. All specimens had ≤3% strain after fatigue loading, suggesting sufficient stability for fracture healing. The benefits of enhanced stability from dual-implant fixation may be achieved through orthogonal plating while avoiding an additional medial surgical approach, and therefore warrants further investigation as a novel alternative for distal femur fracture fixation.

Conceptualizing Biological Aging and Frailty in Orthopaedics: A Framework for Clinical Practice

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Biological aging can best be conceptualized clinically as a combination of 3 components: frailty, comorbidity, and disability.

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Despite advancements in the understanding of senescence, chronological age remains the best estimate of biological age. However, a useful exercise for practitioners is to look beyond chronological age in clinical and surgical decision-making.

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A chronologically aging person does not age biologically at the same rate.

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The best way to understand frailty is to consider it as a physical phenotype.

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Physical optimization should parallel medical optimization before elective surgery.

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The poorer the host (both in terms of bone quality and propensity for healing), the more robust the implant construct must be to minimize reliance on host biology.

Anterior hip dislocation complicated by thrombus in the common femoral vein: A case report

CASE

A 90-year-old male sustained a low energy anterior hip dislocation without fracture after a ground-level fall. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detected femoral vessel compression and thrombosis. The patient underwent placement of an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter prior to successful closed reduction in the operating room.

CONCLUSION

Anterior hip dislocations are rare events that require urgent intervention to reduce the risk of complications. One underreported complication is femoral vessel thrombosis from direct compression against the femoral head. Dedicated imaging should be considered to rule out a thrombus. An IVC filter can be placed prior to reduction attempts to avoid potential thrombotic emboli.

Early mortality after hip fracture surgery in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the risk of early mortality in hip fracture patients with COVID-19 infection who undergo surgical intervention.

Data sources

MEDLINE (PubMed) and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) databases.

Study selection

Studies were included in the systematic review if they reported postoperative mortality in patients with COVID-19 infection who underwent operative intervention for hip fracture. From this selection of studies, only investigations that reported postoperative mortality in a COVID-positive and a non-COVID group were included in the meta-analysis.

Data extraction

Data regarding patient demographics, age, and sex were recorded. Additional data that was extracted included study location, data collection period, length of follow-up, COVID testing methodology, COVID testing results, and number of patients who underwent operative versus nonoperative management. The primary outcome of interest was postoperative mortality.

Data synthesis

Random effects meta-analyses were performed to assess the pooled relative risk of postoperative mortality according to COVID status. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Conclusions

The overall pooled mortality rate in the early postoperative period for hip fracture patients with concomitant COVID-19 infection was 32.6%. The relative risk for postoperative mortality in COVID-positive patients compared to non-COVID patients was 5.66 (95% CI 4.01–7.98; p < 0.001). The currently available literature demonstrates that COVID-19 infection represents a substantial risk factor for early postoperative mortality in the already susceptible hip fracture population. Further investigations will be needed to assess longer-term morbidity and mortality in this patient population.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic Level IV.

The effect of nail diameter on proximal femoral shortening after internal fixation of pertrochanteric hip fractures with short cephalomedullary nails

Objective

Investigate the effect of distal nail diameter on proximal femoral shortening (PFS) after cephalomedullary nailing of hip fractures.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 80 patients aged 50 years and older with pertrochanteric hip fractures treated with a 10 or 11 mm short cephalomedullary nail (CMN) was performed. We measured abductor lever arm shortening, femoral height shortening, and PFS.

Results

There was no difference in abductor lever arm shortening (p = 0.09), femoral height shortening (p = 0.86), and PFS (p = 0.34) between the 10 and 11 mm groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that distal nail diameter does not affect PFS.

Level of evidence

III.

Automated Measurement of Lumbar Lordosis on Radiographs Using Machine Learning and Computer Vision

STUDY DESIGN

Cross sectional database study.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a fully automated artificial intelligence and computer vision pipeline for assisted evaluation of lumbar lordosis.

METHODS

Lateral lumbar radiographs were used to develop a segmentation neural network (n = 629). After synthetic augmentation, 70% of these radiographs were used for network training, while the remaining 30% were used for hyperparameter optimization. A computer vision algorithm was deployed on the segmented radiographs to calculate lumbar lordosis angles. A test set of radiographs was used to evaluate the validity of the entire pipeline (n = 151).

RESULTS

The U-Net segmentation achieved a test dataset dice score of 0.821, an area under the receiver operating curve of 0.914, and an accuracy of 0.862. The computer vision algorithm identified the L1 and S1 vertebrae on 84.1% of the test set with an average speed of 0.14 seconds/radiograph. From the 151 test set radiographs, 50 were randomly chosen for surgeon measurement. When compared with those measurements, our algorithm achieved a mean absolute error of 8.055° and a median absolute error of 6.965° (not statistically significant, P > .05).

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to use artificial intelligence and computer vision in a combined pipeline to rapidly measure a sagittal spinopelvic parameter without prior manual surgeon input. The pipeline measures angles with no statistically significant differences from manual measurements by surgeons. This pipeline offers clinical utility in an assistive capacity, and future work should focus on improving segmentation network performance.

Risk Factors for 90-day Readmissions With Fluid and Electrolyte Disorders Following Posterior Lumbar Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study of the 2012 to 2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Readmissions Database.

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for 30- and 90-day readmission due to fluid and electrolyte disorders following posterior lumbar fusion.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Thirty- and 90-day readmission rates are important quality and outcome measures for hospitals and physicians. These measures have been tied to financial penalties for abnormally high rates of readmission. Furthermore, complex and high cost surgeries have been increasingly reimbursed in the form of bundled disease resource group payments, where any treatment within 90-day postdischarge is covered within the original bundled payment scheme.

METHODS

A total of 65,121 patients in the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Readmissions Database met our inclusion criteria, of which 1128 patients (1.7%) were readmitted within 30 days, and 1669 patients (2.6%) were readmitted within 90 days due to fluid and electrolyte abnormalities. A bivariate analysis was performed to compare baseline characteristics between patients readmitted with fluid and electrolyte disorders and the remainder of the cohort. A multivariate regression analysis was then performed to identify independent risk factors for readmission due to fluid and electrolyte disorders at 30 and 90 days.

RESULTS

The strongest independent predictors of 30-day readmissions were age ≥80 years, age 65 to 79 years, age 55 to 64 years, liver disease, and drug use disorder. The five strongest predictors of 90-day readmissions were age ≥80 years, age 65 to 79 years, age 55 to 64 years, liver disease, and fluid and electrolyte disorders.

CONCLUSION

Patients with baseline liver disease, previously diagnosed fluid and electrolyte disorders, age older than 55 years, or drug use disorders are at higher risk for readmissions with fluid and electrolyte disorders following posterior lumbar fusion. Close monitoring of fluid and electrolyte balance in the perioperative period is essential to decrease complications and reduce unplanned readmissions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Early outcomes after hip fracture surgery in COVID-19 patients in New York City

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread globally and placed healthcare systems under substantial strain. Hip fracture patients represent a high-risk population for severe COVID-19 symptoms, as they are generally older with multiple medical comorbidities. There has been limited information available on the presenting characteristics and outcomes of COVID-positive patients with hip fractures who undergo surgical treatment.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 10 patients ≥60 years of age with a hip fracture and COVID-19 who underwent surgical treatment in New York City during the COVID-19 outbreak from March 1, 2020 to May 22, 2020. Clinical characteristics and early postoperative outcomes were reported.

Results

Eight out of the 10 COVID-positive hip fracture patients in our series were asymptomatic on admission with no clinical signs or symptoms of COVID-19 infection. Only 2 patients presented with hypoxia. All 10 patients underwent surgery within 2 days of admission. Five out of the 10 patients – including the patients who presented with hypoxia – subsequently required supplemental oxygen postoperatively. Two patients had persistently elevated oxygen demands requiring prolonged administration of supplemental oxygen therapy beyond postoperative day 3. None of the patients were put on mechanical ventilation. One patient had a presumed venous thromboembolism postoperatively and subsequently died on postoperative day 19, likely due to respiratory failure. There were no other deaths in the early postoperative period. The average length of inpatient stay was 7.8 days.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that hip fracture patients who present with asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 infection may have temporarily increased oxygen demands postoperatively, but they can safely undergo early surgical intervention after appropriate medical optimization.

Can C7 Slope Be Used as a Substitute for T1 Slope? A Radiographic Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective radiographic study.

OBJECTIVES

T1 slope is an important parameter of sagittal spinal balance. However, the T1 superior endplate can be difficult to visualize on radiographs due to overlying anatomical structures. C7 slope has been proposed as a potential substitute for T1 slope when the T1 superior endplate is not well visualized. The objective of this study was 2-fold: (1) to assess the correlation between C7 and T1 slopes on upright cervical spine radiographs and (2) to evaluate the interrater reliability of C7 slope.

METHODS

Cervical spine radiographs taken between December 2017 and June 2018 at a single institution were reviewed. Two observers measured upper C7 slope, lower C7 slope, and T1 slope. The correlations between upper and lower C7 slope and T1 slope were evaluated, and linear regression analyses were performed. Interrater reliability of C7 slope was also assessed.

RESULTS

In this cohort of 152 patients, there was a strong correlation between upper C7 slope and T1 slope (r = 0.91, P < .001), as well as between lower C7 slope and T1 slope (r = 0.90, P < .001). T1 slope could be estimated from the linear regression equation, T1 slope = 0.87 × C7 slope + 7, with an overall model fit of R ² = 0.8. There was strong interrater reliability for upper (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.95, P < .001) and lower C7 slope (ICC = 0.96, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both the upper and lower C7 slope are strongly correlated with T1 slope and can be used as a substitute to estimate T1 slope when the superior endplate of T1 is not well visualized.

Utilization, effectiveness, and safety of tranexamic acid use in hip fracture surgery: A population-based study

Objective

To assess the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) use in hip fracture surgery.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Premier Healthcare database. A propensity score matching approach was applied to assess associations between TXA use and blood transfusion, perioperative complications, length of stay (LOS), and hospitalization cost.

Results

In 153,169 patients, TXA use was associated with a 17% decrease in odds of blood transfusion, no increase in the risk of perioperative complications, 16% shorter LOS, and minimal effects on hospitalization cost.

Conclusion

Our results are in support of a wider use of TXA in hip fracture surgery.

Level of evidence

Level III.

Predicting In-Hospital Complications After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion: A Comparison of the Elixhauser and Charlson Comorbidity Indices

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the ability of the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) to predict postoperative complications after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of ACDF hospitalizations in the National Inpatient Sample from 2013 to 2014. The ECI and CCI were calculated, and patients who experienced postoperative complications were identified. The ability of these indexes to predict complications was compared using the c statistic (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]). In addition, the CCI and ECI were compared with a base model that included age, sex, race, and primary payer.

RESULTS

A total of 261,780 patients were included. Patients who experienced a complication were more often male (P < 0.0001) and older (P < 0.0001). They also had a higher comorbidity burden as assessed by both the ECI (P < 0.0001) and the CCI (P < 0.0001). The ECI was superior in predicting airway complications (AUC, 0.81 vs. 0.75; P < 0.0001), hemorrhagic anemia (AUC, 0.67 vs. 0.63; P = 0.0015), pulmonary embolism (AUC, 0.91 vs. 0.77; P < 0.0001), wound dehiscence (AUC, 0.80 vs. 0.55; P = 0.0080), sepsis (AUC, 0.87 vs. 0.82; P = 0.0001), and septic shock (AUC, 0.94 vs. 0.83; P < 0.0001). The CCI was not found to be superior to the ECI for predicting any complications. Both were excellent for predicting mortality (ECI AUC, 0.87; CCI AUC, 0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

The ECI was superior to the CCI in predicting 6 of 15 complications in this study. Both are excellent tools for predicting mortality after ACDF.

The Effects of Preoperative Steroid Therapy on Perioperative Morbidity and Mortality After Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort analysis.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the effects of preoperative steroid therapy on 30-day perioperative complications after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Chronic steroid therapy has demonstrated therapeutic effects in the treatment of various medical conditions but is also known to be associated with surgical complications. There remains a gap in the literature regarding the impact of chronic steroid therapy in predisposing patients to perioperative complications after elective surgery for ASD.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of data from the 2008-2015 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. Patients were divided into two groups based on preoperative steroid therapy. Differences in baseline patient characteristics, comorbidities, and operative variables were assessed. Univariate analysis was performed to compare the incidence of perioperative complications. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression models were then used to adjust for baseline patient and operative variables in order to identify perioperative complications that were associated with preoperative steroid therapy.

RESULTS

We identified 7,936 patients who underwent surgery for ASD, of which 418 (5.3%) were on preoperative steroid therapy. Preoperative steroid therapy was an independent risk factor for four perioperative complications, including mortality (odds ratio [OR] 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30, 4.51; p = .005), wound dehiscence (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.45, 6.70; p = .004), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.24, 3.55; p = .006), and blood transfusion (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.08, 1.66; p < .007).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients on preoperative steroid therapy are at increased risk of 30-day mortality, wound dehiscence, DVT, and blood transfusion after surgery for ASD. An interdisciplinary approach to the perioperative management of steroid regimens is critical.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

The Effects of Liver Disease on Surgical Outcomes Following Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

BACKGROUND

As the prevalence of chronic liver disease continues to rise in the United States, understanding the effects of liver dysfunction on surgical outcomes has become increasingly important. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of chronic liver disease on 30-day complications following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 2337 patients in the 2008-2015 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent corrective ASD surgery. Patients with liver disease were identified based on a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Na score ≥10. A univariate analysis was performed to compare 30-day postoperative complications between patients with and without liver disease. A multivariate regression analysis adjusting for differences in baseline patient characteristics was performed to identify complications that were associated with liver disease.

RESULTS

Patients with liver disease had a significantly greater incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (6.3% vs. 2.9%; P < 0.001), blood transfusion (34.6% vs. 24.0%; P < 0.001), sepsis (2.2% vs. 0.9%; P = 0.011), prolonged hospitalization (19.0% vs. 8.0%; P < 0.001), as well as any 30-day complication (45.4% vs. 29.4%; P < 0.001). The multivariate regression analysis identified liver disease as a risk factor for prolonged hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.64-2.84; P < 0.001), pulmonary complications (OR 1.78; 95% CI 1.16-2.74; P = 0.009), blood transfusion (OR 1.67; 95% CI 1.36-2.05; P < 0.001), and any 30-day complication (OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.15-1.77; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The multisystem pathophysiology of liver dysfunction predisposes patients to postoperative complications following ASD surgery. A multidisciplinary approach in surgical planning and preoperative optimization is needed to minimize liver disease-related complications and improve patient outcomes.

Comparison of Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion With a Stand-Alone Interbody Cage Versus a Conventional Cage-Plate Technique: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

Compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with a stand-alone interbody cage versus a conventional cage and anterior cervical plate technique.

METHODS

A systematic Medline search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library Database of Systematic Reviews. Search terms included "anterior cervical discectomy and fusion," "cage," and "bone plates," or variations thereof. Only studies involving a direct comparison of ACDF with a stand-alone cage versus a cage and plate were included. From the selected studies, we extracted data on patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical risk factors, and pre- and postoperative radiographic findings. A meta-analysis was performed on all outcome measures. The quality of each study was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients who underwent ACDF with a cage-only technique had significantly lower rates of postoperative dysphagia and adjacent segment disease compared with patients who underwent ACDF with a cage-plate technique. However, patients who underwent ACDF with a cage-plate technique had better radiographic outcomes with significantly less subsidence and better restoration of cervical lordosis. There were no other significant differences in outcomes or postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

ACDF with a cage-only technique appears to have better clinical outcomes than the cage-plate technique, despite radiographic findings of increased rates of subsidence and less restoration of cervical lordosis. Future randomized controlled trials with longer term follow-up are needed to confirm the findings of this meta-analysis.

Thirty-Day Perioperative Complications, Prolonged Length of Stay, and Readmission Following Elective Posterior Lumbar Fusion Associated With Poor Nutritional Status

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rates of early postoperative mortality and morbidity in adults with hypoalbuminemia undergoing elective posterior lumbar fusion (PLF).

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) was examined from 2005 to 2012. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were used to query the database for adults (≥18 years) who underwent PLF and/or posterior/transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF/TLIF). Patients were divided into those with normal albumin concentration (≥3.5g/dL) and those with hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dL). Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 2410 patients were included, of whom 2251 (93.4%) were normoalbuminemic and 159 (6.6%) were hypoalbuminemic. Patients with preoperative serum albumin levels <3.5 g/dL were older with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, and more comorbidities, including anemia, diabetes, dependent functional status, and preoperative history of chronic steroid therapy. Hypoalbuminemic patients had higher rates of any 30-day perioperative complication (P < .001), unplanned readmission (P = .019), and prolonged length of stay (LOS) >5 days (P < .001). However, hypoalbuminemia was not significantly associated with any specific perioperative complication. On multivariate analysis, preoperative hypoalbuminemia was found to be an independent predictor of prolonged LOS (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.7-3.5; P < .001) and unplanned readmission (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.1-6.3; P = .023).

CONCLUSION

Hypoalbuminemia was found to be an important predictor of patient outcomes in this population. This study suggests that clinicians should consider nutritional screening and optimization as part of the preoperative risk assessment algorithm.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Impact of Obesity on Surgical Outcomes Following Laminectomy for Spinal Metastases

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of obesity (body mass index >30 kg/m²) on perioperative morbidity and mortality after surgical decompression of spinal metastases.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database is a large multicenter clinical registry that collects preoperative risk factors, intraoperative variables, and 30-day postoperative morbidity and mortality outcomes from hospitals nationwide. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to query the database for adults who underwent decompression with laminectomy for treatment of metastatic spinal lesions between 2010 and 2014. Patients were separated into 2 cohorts based on the presence of absence of obesity. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the effect of obesity on perioperative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

There was a significantly higher rate of venous thromboembolism (VTE; obese 6.6% vs nonobese 4.2%; P = .01) and pulmonary complications (obese 2.6% vs nonobese 2.2%; P = .046) in the obese group compared with the nonobese group. The nonobese group had prolonged hospitalization (obese 62.0% vs nonobese 69.0%; P = .001) and a higher incidence of blood transfusions (obese 26.8% vs nonobese 34.2%; P < .001). On multivariate analysis, obesity was found to be an independent risk factor for VTE (odds ratio = 1.75, confidence interval = 1.17-2.63, P = .007).

CONCLUSIONS

Obese patients were predisposed to an elevated risk of VTE following laminectomy for spinal metastases. Early postoperative mobilization and a low threshold to evaluate for perioperative VTE are important in these patients in order to appropriately diagnose and treat these complications and minimize morbidity.

Hypoalbuminemia as an Independent Risk Factor for Perioperative Complications Following Surgical Decompression of Spinal Metastases

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

Malnutrition has been shown to be a risk factor for poor perioperative outcomes in multiple surgical subspecialties, but few studies have specifically investigated the effect of hypoalbuminemia in patients undergoing operative treatment of metastatic spinal tumors. The aim of this study was to assess the role of hypoalbuminemia as an independent risk factor for 30-day perioperative mortality and morbidity after surgical decompression of metastatic spinal tumors using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2011 to 2014.

METHODS

We identified 1498 adult patients in the ACS-NSQIP database who underwent laminectomy and excision of metastatic extradural spinal tumors. Patients were categorized into normoalbuminemic and hypoalbuminemic (ie, albumin level <3.5 g/dL) groups. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to examine the association between preoperative hypoalbuminemia and 30-day perioperative mortality and morbidity. Subgroup analysis was performed in the hypoalbuminemic group to assess the dose-dependent effect of albumin depletion.

RESULTS

Hypoalbuminemia was associated with increased risk of perioperative mortality, any complication, sepsis, intra- or postoperative transfusion, prolonged hospitalization, and non-home discharge. However, albumin depletion was also associated with decreased risk of readmission. There was an albumin level-dependent effect of increasing mortality and complication rates with worsening albumin depletion.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoalbuminemia is an independent risk factor for perioperative mortality and morbidity following surgical decompression of metastatic spinal tumors with a dose-dependent effect on mortality and complication rates. Therefore, it is important to address malnutrition and optimize nutritional status prior to surgery.

Risk Factors Associated with 30-Day Mortality After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Vertebral Fractures

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have examined the outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation of vertebral fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine patient-related and surgery-related risk factors associated with 30-day postoperative mortality after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebral fractures.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of data from the 2010-2014 ACS-NSQIP database. Adult patients who underwent ORIF of vertebral fractures in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups on the basis of the occurrence of 30-day postoperative mortality. A univariate analysis was performed to compare baseline patient characteristics, comorbidities, operative variables, and 30-day postoperative complications between the mortality and nonmortality groups. A subsequent multivariate regression analysis adjusting for patient and operative factors was then performed to identify independent risk factors for 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 900 patients who underwent vertebral ORIF were included. The overall 30-day postoperative mortality rate was 1.56%. The mortality group had a higher incidence of pneumonia, pulmonary complications, cardiac complications, blood transfusion, sepsis, and prolonged hospitalization. Multivariate regression analysis identified pulmonary comorbidity and diabetes as independent predictors of 30-day mortality following ORIF of vertebral fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary comorbidity and diabetes were found to be independent risk factors for 30-day mortality after ORIF of vertebral fractures. Recognizing these risk factors is important in preoperative risk stratification, perioperative care, and patient counseling.

Surgical, Radiographic, and Patient-Related Risk Factors for Proximal Junctional Kyphosis: A Meta-Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a complication of surgical management for adult spinal deformity with a multifactorial etiology. Many risk factors are controversial and their relative importance are not fully understood. We aimed to identify the surgical, radiographic, and patient-related risk factors associated with PJK and proximal junctional failure (PJF).

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and EMBASE. The inclusion criteria included prospective randomized control trials and prospective/retrospective cohort studies of adult patients with radiographic evidence of PJK, which was defined as a proximal junctional sagittal Cobb angle ≥10° and at least 10° greater than the preoperative measurement. Studies required a minimum of 10 patients and 12 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 14 unique studies, including 1908 patients were included. The pooled analysis showed significant differences between the PJK and non-PJK groups in age (weighted mean difference [WMD] -3.80; P = .03), prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis (odds ratio [OR] 1.99; P = .0004), preoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA) (WMD -17.52; P = .02), preoperative lumbar lordosis (LL) (WMD -1.22; P = .002), pedicle screw instrumentation at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) (OR 1.67; P = .02), change in SVA (WMD -11.87; P = .01), fusion to sacrum/pelvis/ilium (OR 2.14; P < .00 001), change in LL (WMD -5.61; P = .01), and postoperative SVA (WMD -7.79; P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis suggests that age, osteopenia/osteoporosis, high preoperative SVA, high postoperative SVA, low preoperative LL, use of pedicle screws at the UIV, SVA change/correction, LL change/correction, and fusion to sacrum/pelvis/iliac region are risk factors for PJK.

Overview of Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia can be viewed as more of a symptom rather than a distinct diagnosis. Timing of forefoot pain during the gait cycle and evaluation of whether the pain is from anatomic abnormalities, indirect overloading, or iatrogenic causes can suggest a specific metatarsalgia etiology. A thorough physical examination of the lower extremity, especially evaluation of the plantar foot, and weight-bearing radiographs are critical for diagnosis and treatment. Nonoperative treatment consists of physical therapy, orthotics, shoe wear modification, and injections. If conservative treatment fails, surgical options may be considered. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(1):e138-e143.].

The Effects of Chronic Preoperative Steroid Therapy on Perioperative Complications Following Elective Posterior Lumbar Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

Chronic steroid therapy is used in the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, but it is known to be associated with adverse effects. There remains a gap in the literature regarding the role of chronic steroid therapy in predisposing patients to perioperative complications following elective posterior lumbar fusion (PLF). We aimed to identify the effects of chronic preoperative steroid therapy on 30-day perioperative complications in patients undergoing PLF.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed using the 2011-2014 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. We identified 22 903 patients who underwent elective PLF. There were 849 patients (3.7%) who received chronic preoperative steroid therapy. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine steroid therapy as an independent risk factor for 30-day perioperative complications. A subgroup analysis of patients on chronic steroid therapy was then performed to identify additional patient characteristics that further increased the risk for perioperative complications.

RESULTS

Chronic preoperative steroid therapy was an independent risk factor for 7 perioperative complications, including superficial surgical site infection (SSI), deep SSI, wound dehiscence, urinary tract infection, pulmonary embolism, nonhome discharge, and readmission. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that morbid obesity further predisposed patients on chronic steroid therapy to an increased risk of superficial SSI and wound dehiscence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients on chronic preoperative steroid therapy are at increased risk of multiple perioperative complications following elective PLF, particularly surgical site complications and venous thromboembolic events. This risk is further elevated in patients who are morbidly obese.

Risk Factors for Perioperative Complications in Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Elective Posterior Lumbar Fusion

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

The prevalence of obesity-related low back pain and degenerative disc disease is on the rise. Past studies have demonstrated that obesity is associated with higher perioperative complication rates, but there remains a gap in the literature regarding additional risk factors that further predispose this already high-risk patient population to poor surgical outcomes following elective posterior lumbar fusion (PLF). The aim of the study is to identify independent risk factors for poor 30-day perioperative outcomes in morbidly obese patients undergoing elective PLF.

METHODS

We identified 22 909 patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent elective PLF. There were 1861 morbidly obese patients. Baseline patient demographics and medical comorbidities were collected. Univariate analysis was performed to compare perioperative complication rates between non-morbidly obese and morbidly obese patients. The 5 most common complications in the morbidly obese group were then selected for multivariate regression analysis to identify independent risk factors for poor 30-day outcomes.

RESULTS

Morbidly obese patients had a higher perioperative complication rate. The 5 most common complications were prolonged hospitalization, blood transfusion, readmission, wound complications, and reoperation. Independent risk factors for these complications were age ≥65 years, super obesity (ie, BMI > 48.6), chronic steroid use, American Society of Anesthesiology classification ≥3, poor functional status, long length of fusion ≥4 levels, and extended operative time (ie, operative time ≥318 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS

Morbidly obese patients are at higher risk of perioperative complications following elective PLF. Modifiable risk factors for the most common complications are obesity and preoperative steroid use.

Primary Versus Revision Discectomy for Adults With Herniated Nucleus Pulposus: A Propensity Score-Matched Multicenter Study

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective propensity score matched analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the incidence of any 30-day perioperative complication following primary and revision discectomy for lumbar disc herniation.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) was used to identify patients undergoing primary or revision lumbar discectomy from 2005 to 2012. Propensity score matching was performed to create matched pairs of primary and revision discectomy cases for analysis. Univariate analysis was then performed to compare 30-day morbidity and mortality between propensity score-matched pairs.

RESULTS

We identified 4730 cases of primary discectomy performed through a minimally invasive or open approach and 649 revision discectomy cases. Baseline patient characteristics and comorbidities were compared and then propensity score-matched adjustments were made to create 649 matched pairs of primary and revision cases. On univariate analysis, there were no significant differences in 30-day perioperative outcomes between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

While there were no significant differences in 30-day perioperative complications between patients undergoing primary lumbar discectomy and those undergoing revision lumbar discectomy, this finding should be interpreted with caution since the ACS-NSQIP database lacks functional and pain outcomes, and also does not include dural tear or durotomy as a complication. Future large-scale and long-term prospective studies including these variables are needed to better understand the outcomes and complications following primary versus revision discectomy for lumbar disc herniation.

Predictors of 30-Day Postoperative Pulmonary Complications After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Vertebral Fractures

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify predictors of 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of vertebral fractures.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2010 to 2014. Adult patients who underwent ORIF of vertebral fractures were included and divided into 2 groups based on the occurrence of 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications. Baseline patient and operative characteristics were compared between the 2 groups. Multivariate regression (MVR) analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for pulmonary complications.

RESULTS

A total of 900 patients were included in our cohort. The overall 30-day pulmonary complication rate was 5.67%. Patients who had a pulmonary complication after vertebral ORIF were more often men and more often had diabetes, functional dependence, American Society of Anesthesiologists score classification of 3 or higher, pulmonary comorbidity, renal comorbidity, and preoperative anemia. The pulmonary complication group also had a higher incidence of 30-day mortality, prolonged hospitalization, pneumonia, cardiac complications, urinary tract infection, blood transfusion, and sepsis. The MVR analysis found that pulmonary comorbidity (odds ratio [OR], 5.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.5-11.5; P < 0.001), diabetes (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.0-4.2; P = 0.037), partial or dependent functional status (OR, 4.7; 95% CI, 2.2-10.2; P < 0.001), and cervical spine involvement (OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.7-8.0; P = 0.001) were independent predictors of pulmonary complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Early identification of risk factors for postoperative pulmonary complications is important in the evaluation of patients with vertebral fractures for surgical decision-making, preoperative optimization, and subsequent postoperative care to improve patient outcomes and minimize morbidity.

Anterior Lumbar Fusion: Differences in Patient Selection and Surgical Outcomes Between Neurosurgeons and Orthopaedic Surgeons

OBJECTIVE

Anterior lumbar fusion (ALF) is performed by both neurosurgeons and orthopaedic surgeons. The aim of this study was to determine differences between the 2 surgical subspecialties in terms of patient selection and postoperative outcomes after ALF.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of adult patients undergoing ALF in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2010 to 2014 was performed. Univariate analyses were performed to identify differences in baseline patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, and 30-day postoperative outcomes between neurosurgery and orthopaedic surgery patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine whether surgical subspecialty was an independent risk factor for postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The study included 3182 patients, with 1629 (51.2%) neurosurgery patients and 1553 (48.8%) orthopaedic surgery patients. A greater proportion of neurosurgery patients were >65 years old, were being treated with preoperative steroids, had cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities, and had an American Society of Anesthesiologists classification III or higher. ALF procedures performed by neurosurgeons more frequently involved use of intervertebral devices and bone graft. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, ALF procedures performed by neurosurgeons were independently associated with a higher risk of reoperation (odds ratio = 1.61; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-2.56; P = 0.042) and urinary tract infection (odds ratio = 1.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-3.68; P = 0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to differences in baseline patient demographics and comorbidities and operative characteristics, ALF performed by neurosurgeons had a higher risk of 30-day reoperation and urinary tract infection compared with ALF performed by orthopaedic surgeons.

Age Stratification of 30-Day Postoperative Outcomes Following Excisional Laminectomy for Extradural Cervical and Thoracic Tumors

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate age as an independent predictive factor for perioperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing surgical decompression for metastatic cervical and thoracic spinal tumors using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database from 2011 to 2014.

METHODS

We identified 1673 adult patients undergoing excisional laminectomy of cervical and thoracic extradural tumors. Patients were stratified into quartiles based on age, with Q1 including patients aged 18 to 49 years, Q2 including patients aged 50 to 60 years, Q3 including patients aged 61 to 69 years, and Q4 including patients ≥70 years. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to examine the association between age and 30-day perioperative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

Age was an independent risk factor for 30-day venous thromboembolism (VTE) and reoperation. Patients in Q3 for age had nearly a 4 times increased risk of VTE than patients in Q1 (odds ratio [OR] 3.97; 95% CI 1.91-8.25; P < .001). However, there was no significant difference in VTE between patients in Q4 and Q1 (P = .069). Patients in Q2 (OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.06-3.74; P = .032) and Q4 (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.06-4.52; P = .036) for age had a 2 times increased risk of reoperation compared with patients in Q1.

CONCLUSIONS

Age was an independent predictive factor for perioperative VTE and reoperation, but there was no clear age-dependent relationship between increasing age and the risk of these perioperative complications.

Risk Factors for Perioperative Blood Transfusions in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

OBJECTIVE

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is associated with a high rate of perioperative blood transfusions, and it is important to understand the risk factors for perioperative blood transfusions to implement strategies to reduce transfusions. The aim of this study was to identify independent risk factors of perioperative blood transfusions in patients undergoing surgery for ASD.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2010 to 2014. Adult patients undergoing surgery for ASD were separated into 2 cohorts based on whether they received a perioperative blood transfusion. Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to identify risk factors for blood transfusion.

RESULTS

In our cohort of 5805 patients, 27.1% received a blood transfusion. Multivariate regression analysis showed that patient-specific risk factors were age 65 years or older (odds ratio [OR], 1.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.49-2.03; P < 0.001), American Society of Anesthesiologists classification of 3 or greater (OR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.01-1.37; P = 0.033), cardiac comorbidity (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.03-1.41; P = 0.018) and bleeding disorder (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.10-3.66; P = 0.023). Surgery-specific risk factors were a posterior approach (OR, 4.25; 95% CI, 3.46-5.22; P < 0.001), pelvic fixation (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.36-2.20; P < 0.001), and osteotomy (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.71-2.51; P < 0.001). Longer operative time was also a risk factor with a duration-dependent effect on the odds of blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Recognition of patient- and surgery-specific risk factors for perioperative blood transfusion is important to identify patients who are at high risk and to implement strategies to minimize intraoperative blood loss and decrease healthcare costs.

Sciatic Nerve Entanglement Around a Femoral Prosthesis During Closed Reduction of a Dislocated Total Hip Prosthesis: The Role of Metal-Suppression MRI: A Case Report

CASE

A 68-year-old woman who had undergone a right total hip arthroplasty presented with a right posterior hip dislocation, and subsequently developed an ipsilateral sciatic nerve palsy after closed reduction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with metal suppression demonstrated sciatic nerve entanglement around the prosthetic femoral neck. A sciatic nerve release was performed, resulting in poor early neurologic recovery.

CONCLUSION

Sciatic nerve entanglement following closed reduction of a dislocated total hip prosthesis is a rare injury. Assessment of neurovascular status before and after reduction is imperative. We recommend prompt MRI with metal suppression in patients with acute neurologic symptoms following reduction of a dislocated hip prosthesis to evaluate for acute nerve pathology and assess the need for emergency surgery.

Weightbearing CT Scan Assessment of Foot Alignment in Patients With Hallux Rigidus

BACKGROUND

An association between hallux rigidus and metatarsus primus elevatus (MPE) has been suggested, although there remains no general consensus about the nature of this relationship. Past studies were limited due to inaccuracies of assessing MPE on 2-dimensional radiographs. The aims of this study were to (1) assess and compare foot alignment in patients with and without hallux rigidus using 3-dimensional (3D) reconstructions from weightbearing computed tomography (CT) and (2) assess intraobserver and interobserver reliability of these measurements.

METHODS

A prospective study was performed in 50 consecutive patients with symptomatic hallux rigidus and 50 control patients who underwent a weightbearing CT. Two investigators measured first and second metatarsal declination angles, first and second metatarsal lengths, first to second intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle (HVA), and foot width on 3D CT reconstructions. Measurements were repeated after 1 month. Student t tests were performed to compare hallux rigidus and control groups. Intraclass and interclass correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate reliability.

RESULTS

The first to second metatarsal declination ratio was less in patients with hallux rigidus (mean, 0.81) than controls (mean, 0.92; P < .001). Patients with Coughlin and Shurnas grade 3 and 4 hallux rigidus had greater first metatarsal declination than patients with grade 1 and 2 hallux rigidus. Last, IMA was higher (mean, 13 degrees) but HVA was lower (mean, 11 degrees) in patients with hallux rigidus than controls (IMA mean, 12 degrees; HVA mean, 15 degrees; P = .04). Intraobserver (ICC1,1 ≥ 0.93) and interobserver (ICC3,1 ≥ 0.85) reliability were good to excellent for all measured parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with hallux rigidus had MPE. Patients with grade 3 and 4 hallux rigidus had more MPE than patients with grade 1 and 2 hallux rigidus. There was no clear correlation between hallux rigidus and bunions. Finally, weightbearing CT proved to be a reliable method of assessing all measured parameters.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II, prospective comparative series.