Search

This review evaluates the decision-making framework for using antibiotic-loaded cement (ALC) in the management of prosthetic joint infection (PJI). Drawing on available literature, we offer orthopaedic surgeons a guided discussion on several critical considerations. First, we explore the impact of antibiotic-loading on the mechanical properties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement, assessing both strength and durability. We then explore the optimal antibiotic dosage to load into cement, aiming to achieve effective local concentrations for infection control without compromising mechanical stability. Furthermore, we explore how cement and antibiotic properties affect the overall antibiotic elution characteristics of ALC. Finally, we discuss risks of systemic toxicity, particularly acute kidney injury, when using ALC. The principal goal in this review is to provide a balanced approach based on best available evidence that optimises antibiotic elution from ALC whilst minimising potential harms associated with its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, in clinical medicine and medical education has gained significant attention due to their potential to support decision-making and improve patient care. However, there is a need to evaluate the benefits and limitations of these tools in specific clinical scenarios. Methods: This study used a case study approach within the field of orthopaedic surgery. A clinical case report featuring a 53-year-old male with a femoral neck fracture was used as the basis for evaluation. ChatGPT, a large language model, was asked to respond to clinical questions related to the case. The responses generated by ChatGPT were evaluated qualitatively, considering their relevance, justification, and alignment with the responses of real clinicians. Alternative dialogue protocols were also employed to assess the impact of additional prompts and contextual information on ChatGPT responses. Results: ChatGPT generally provided clinically appropriate responses to the questions posed in the clinical case report. However, the level of justification and explanation varied across the generated responses. Occasionally, clinically inappropriate responses and inconsistencies were observed in the generated responses across different dialogue protocols and on separate days. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight both the potential and limitations of using ChatGPT in clinical practice. While ChatGPT demonstrated the ability to provide relevant clinical information, the lack of consistent justification and occasional clinically inappropriate responses raise concerns about its reliability. These results underscore the importance of careful consideration and validation when using AI tools in healthcare. Further research and clinician training are necessary to effectively integrate AI tools like ChatGPT, ensuring their safe and reliable use in clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the functional and graft survivorship outcomes of the three most common autograft options for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)—hamstring tendon (HT), bone-patella-tendon-bone (BPTB), and quadriceps tendon (QT). Methods: Patients captured by the New Zealand ACL registry who underwent a primary ACLR from 2014 to 2020 were considered for the study. Patients with associated knee injury (including meniscus, chondral, osseous, and additional ligamentous injury) and previous knee surgery were excluded. Comparison was made between HT, BPTB, and QT autografts with respect to Marx and KOOS (Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) scores at minimum 2 years follow-up. In addition, graft survivorship was evaluated by comparing all-cause revision per 100 graft years and revision-free proportion at 2 years post-surgery. Results: 2,582 patients (1,921 HT, 558 BPTB, 107 QT) were included in the study. Differences in adjusted functional outcomes between HT and BPTB were found at 12 months (mean Marx; HT 6.2; BPTB 7.1; P < 0.001) (mean KOOS Sport and Recreation; HT 75.1; BPTB 70.5; n.s.) and 24 months (mean KOOS Sports and Recreation; HT 79.2; BPTB 73.9; P < 0.001). QT was comparable to HT and BPTB in all functional scores at 12 months and 2 years. No statistically significant differences were found in revision rate between all three autograft groups up to 2 years post-surgery (revision rate per 100 graft years; HT 1.05; BPTB 0.80; QT 1.68; n.s. HT vs. BPTB; n.s. HT vs. QT; n.s. QT vs. BPTB). Conclusions: QT was found to be comparable to both HT and BPTB in all functional scores and revision rates up to 2 years post-surgery. Level of evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]