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Background and purpose: A new periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) definition has recently been proposed by the European Bone and Joint Infection Society (EBJIS). The goals of this paper are to evaluate its diagnostic accuracy and compare it with previous definitions and to assess its accuracy in preoperative diagnosis.Patients and methods: We retrospectively evaluated a multicenter cohort of consecutive revision total hip and knee arthroplasties. Cases with minimum required diagnostic workup were classified according to EBJIS, 2018 International Consensus Meeting (ICM 2018), Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), and modified 2013 Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) definitions. 2 years’ minimum follow-up was required to assess clinical outcome.Results: Of the 472 cases included, PJI was diagnosed in 195 (41%) cases using EBJIS; 188 (40%) cases using IDSA; 172 (36%) using ICM 2018; and 145 (31%) cases using MSIS. EBJIS defined fewer cases as intermediate (5% vs. 9%; p = 0.01) compared with ICM 2018. Specificity was determined by comparing risk of subsequent PJI after revision surgery. Infected cases were associated with higher risk of subsequent PJI in every definition. Cases classified as likely/confirmed infections using EBJIS among those classified as not infected in other definitions showed a significantly higher risk of subsequent PJI compared with concordant non-infected cases using MSIS (RR = 3, 95% CI 1–6), but not using ICM 2018 (RR = 2, CI 1–6) or IDSA (RR = 2, CI 1–5). EBJIS showed the highest agreement between pre-operative and definitive classification (k = 0.9, CI 0.8–0.9) and was better at ruling out PJI with an infection unlikely result (sensitivity 89% [84–93], negative predictive value 90% [85–93]).Conclusion: The newly proposed EBJIS definition emerged as the most sensitive of all major definitions. Cases classified as PJI according to the EBJIS criteria and not by other definitions seem to have increased risk of subsequent PJI compared with concordant non-infected cases. EBJIS classification is accurate in ruling out infection preoperatively.

Aims Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) and fracture-related infections (FRIs) are associated with a significant risk of adverse events. However, there is a paucity of data on cardiac complications following revision surgery for PJI and FRI and how they impact overall mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the risk of perioperative myocardial injury (PMI) and mortality in this patient cohort. Methods We prospectively included consecutive patients at high cardiovascular risk (defined as age ≥ 45 years with pre-existing coronary, peripheral, or cerebrovascular artery disease, or any patient aged ≥ 65 years, plus a postoperative hospital stay of > 24 hours) undergoing septic or aseptic major orthopaedic surgery between July 2014 and October 2016. All patients received a systematic screening to reliably detect PMI, using serial measurements of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T. All-cause mortality was assessed at one year. Multivariable logistic regression models were applied to compare incidence of PMI and mortality between patients undergoing septic revision surgery for PJI or FRI, and patients receiving aseptic major bone and joint surgery. Results In total, 911 consecutive patients were included. The overall perioperative myocardial injury (PMI) rate was 15.4% (n = 140). Septic revision surgery for PJI was associated with a significantly higher PMI rate (43.8% (14/32) vs 14.5% (57/393); p = 0.001) and one-year mortality rate (18.6% (6/32) vs 7.4% (29/393); p = 0.038) compared to aseptic revision or primary arthroplasty. The association with PMI persisted in multivariable analysis with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 4.7 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1 to 10.7; p < 0.001), but was not statistically significant for one-year mortality (aOR 1.9 (95% CI 0.7 to 5.4; p = 0.240). PMI rate (15.2% (5/33) vs 14.1% (64/453)) and one-year mortality (15.2% (5/33) vs 9.1% (41/453)) after FRI revision surgery were comparable to aseptic long-bone fracture surgery. Conclusion Patients undergoing revision surgery for PJI were at a risk of PMI and death compared to those undergoing aseptic arthroplasty surgery. Screening for PMI and treatment in specialized multidisciplinary units should be considered in major bone and joint infections. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(6):696–702.

AIM: Although nonunions are among the most common complications after long-bone fracture fixation, the definition of fracture nonunion remains controversial and varies widely. The aim of this study was to identify the definitions and diagnostic criteria used in the scientific literature to describe nonunions after long-bone fractures. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase. Prospective clinical studies, in which adult long-bone fracture nonunions were investigated as main subject, were included in this analysis. Data on nonunion definitions described in each study were extracted and collected in a database. RESULTS: Although 148 studies met the inclusion criteria, only 50% (74/148) provided a definition for their main study subject. Nonunion was defined in these studies based on time-related criteria in 85% (63/74), on radiographic criteria in 62% (46/74), and on clinical criteria in 45% (33/74). A combination of clinical, radiographic and time-related criteria for definition was found in 38% (28/74). The time interval between fracture and the time point when authors defined an unhealed fracture as a nonunion showed considerable heterogeneity, ranging from three to twelve months. CONCLUSION: In the current orthopaedic literature, we found a lack of consensus with regard to the definition of long-bone nonunions. Without valid and reliable definition criteria for nonunion, standardization of diagnostic and treatment algorithms as well as the comparison of clinical studies remains problematic. The lack of a clear definition emphasizes the need for a consensus-based approach to the diagnosis of fracture nonunion centred on clinical, radiographical and time-related criteria. pmid: 34531088 ispartof: INJURY-INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE CARE OF THE INJURED vol:52 issue:11 pages:3200-3205 ispartof: location:Netherlands status: published

Introduction Fracture-related infection (FRI) is a severe post-traumatic complication which is occasionally accompanied by a deficient or even avital soft-tissue envelope. In these cases, a thoroughly planned orthoplastic approach is imperative as a vital and intact soft-tissue envelope is mandatory to achieve fracture union and infection eradication. The aim of this study was, to analyse if soft-tissue reconstruction (STR) without complications is associated with a better long-term outcome compared to FRI patients with STR complications. In particular, it was investigated if primary flap failure represented a risk factor for compromised fracture union and recurrence of infection. Patients and Methods Patients with a lower leg FRI requiring STR (local, pedicled and free flaps) who were treated from 2010-18 at the University Hospital Basel were included in this retrospective analysis. The main outcome measure was the success rate of STR, further outcome measures were fracture nonunion and recurrence of infection. Results Overall, 145 patients with lower leg FRI were identified, of whom 58 (40%) received STR (muscle flaps: n��=��38, fascio-cutaneous flaps: n=19; composite osteo-cutaneous flap: n��=��1). In total seven patients required secondary STR due to primary flap failure. All failures and flap-related complications occurred within the first three weeks after surgery. Secondary STR was successful in all cases. A high Charlson Comorbidity Index Score was a significant risk factor for flap failure (p��=��0.011). Out of the 43 patients who completed the 9-month follow-up, 11 patients presented with fracture nonunion and 12 patients with a recurrent infection. Polymicrobial infection was a significant risk factor for fracture nonunion (p��=��0.002). Primary flap failure was neither a risk factor for compromised fracture consolidation (p��=��0.590) nor for recurrence of infection (p��=��0.508). Conclusion: A considerable number of patients with lower-leg FRI required STR. This patient subgroup is complex and rich in complications and the long-term composite outcome demonstrated a high rate of compromised fracture consolidation and recurrent infections. It appears that secondary STR should be performed, as primary flap failure was neither a risk factor for compromised fracture consolidation nor for recurrence of infection. We propose to monitor these patients closely for three weeks after STR.

Background:Although reported results on short stems sound very promising, the occurrence of distal femoral cortical hypertrophy is often observed. The aim of the present study was to report 5-year survival data of a commercially available trochanter sparing short stem and investigate the clinical impact of distal femoral cortical hypertrophy on the outcome.Methods:123 total hip arthroplasties were performed on 120 patients from April 2008 to May 2010 (mean age 62, range 29–89 years; 71 hips from male patients, 58%). Clinical and radiological data were collected preoperative, at 6 weeks, 1, 2, 3, and 5 years postoperative to assess the outcome. Radiographs taken immediately postoperative as well as 1 and 5 years postoperative were used to identify and assess cortical hypertrophy.Results:1 stem had to be revised due to aseptic loosening, resulting in a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with endpoint for stem revision of 99.2% (95% Confidence Interval 94.1–99.9) at 5 years. 96 radiological and 95 clinical follow-ups were analysed 5 years postoperative. 68 (71%) hips showed distal femoral cortical hypertrophy after 5 years. The average Harris Hip Score and Oxford Hip Score improved 33 (standard deviation (SD) 15.1, range 2–70), 18 (SD 12.1, range -10–43) points, respectively. Overall 16% of the patients reported thigh pain, unrelated to the presence of cortical hypertrophy.Discussion:This short stem shows an excellent 5-year survival rate and good clinical outcome despite a high incidence of cortical hypertrophy. However, the question of the mechanism of load transfer arises.

Nonunion is known to occur in up to 10% of all bone fractures. Until recently, the treatment options considered in cases of delayed union and nonunion focused on revision surgery and improvement of local healing. Lately, teriparatide has been introduced as an osteoanabolic factor that induces fracture healing in cases with delayed or nonunions. We report on a series of five cases of delayed and nonunions treated with teriparatide: delayed unions of an atypical femoral fracture, of a multifragmentary clavicle fracture, and of a periprosthetic humeral fracture, nonunion of a tibial and fibular fracture, and infected nonunion of a tibial and fibular fracture. Based on this series, the indications and limits of application of teriparatide in cases of impaired fracture healing are discussed. Due to the &ldquo, off-label&rdquo, character of this application, informed consent, and cost coverage from the healthcare insurance must be obtained prior to treatment. In our experience and according to the limited existing literature, teriparatide is a safe feasible treatment in cases of delayed and nonunions with a reasonable need of resources. While adequate biomechanical stability remains the cornerstone of fracture healing, as well as healing of nonunions, teriparatide could help avoid repetitive surgeries, especially in atrophic delayed and nonunions, as well as in patients with impaired fracture healing undergoing bisphosphonate therapy. There is an urgent need for widely accepted definitions, standardized protocols, as well as further clinical trials in the field of impaired fracture healing.

Case We describe the case of a 26-year-old man with an infected Radio-Frequency-Identification/Near Field Communication (RFID/NFC) chip in the middle finger. The RFID/NFC chip was removed, the soft tissue debrided, and a pan-sensitive staphylococcus aureus was detected by sonication of the RFID/NFC chip. The patient was postoperatively treated with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid (24 hours iv, total 11 days) and an intrinsic plus splint which led to complete recovery. Conclusion Modern body modifications can lead to infections which shouldn't be underestimated. Interdisciplinary treatment is a key to success.

Introduction In revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), the cancellous bone is normally completely removed out of the femoral canal during stem extraction. This situation is comparable to primary THA following the shape-closed concept, with some authors advocating to remove the metaphyseal cancellous bone to enhance press-fit stability (“French paradox”). The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term outcome, regarding survival and radiological results, of a cemented straight stem when used for revision THA and to compare these results to the results of the same stem in primary THA. Materials and methods 178 stem revisions performed between 01/1994 and 08/2008 using the Virtec straight stem were included. The cumulative incidence for re-revision was calculated using a competing risk model. Risk factors for re-revision of the stem were analyzed using an absolute risk regression model. Radiographs analyzed for osteolysis, debonding and subsidence had a minimum follow-up of 10 years. Results The cumulative incidence for re-revision due to aseptic loosening of the stem was 5.5% (95% CI, 2.9–10.2%) at 10 years. Aseptic loosening was associated with younger age, larger defect size and larger stem size. After a minimum 10-year follow-up, osteolysis was seen in 39 of 80 revision THA. Compared to the results in primary THA, the survival in revision THA with the same implant was inferior. Conclusions Cemented straight stems used for revision THA showed excellent long-term results regarding survivorship and radiological outcome. This stem therefore offers a valuable and cost-effective option in revision THA.

Introduction Total hip arthroplasty in patients with altered anatomy of the hip and femur, such as in congenital dysplasia of the hip, is challenging and often requires specially designed stems. Müller straight stems have shown excellent long-term results; however, long-term data on the analogous cemented Müller CDH stem are still missing. The aim of this study was to analyze long-term survival, identify potential risk factors for aseptic loosening, and analyze radiological outcome of the cemented Müller CDH stems. Materials and methods Between 01/1985 and 06/2005, 95 Müller CDH stems (Zimmer, Winterthur, Switzerland) made up of 3 different materials were cemented using 2 different bone cements: 38 of stainless steel/high-viscosity cement, 31 of a cobalt-chrome-based alloy (CoCr)/low-viscosity cement, and 26 of a titanium-based alloy (Ti)/low-viscosity cement. All patients had a prospective clinical and radiological follow-up according to the standards of our institution. The cumulative incidence for revision of the stem was calculated using a competing risk model. To identify demographic and implant-related risk factors for aseptic loosening of the stem, a multivariate regression model for competing risks was performed. Results The cumulative risk of revision at 15 years was 12.5% (95% CI 6.6–20.5%) for aseptic loosening of the stem as endpoint, with marked differences for the various stem materials used: stainless steel 2.7% (0.2–12.3%), CoCr 12.9% (4.0–27.3%), and Ti 24.5% (9.6–43.1%). Regression modeling revealed that Ti stems in combination with low-viscosity cement (HR 10.2) and implantation with an axis deviation greater than 3° (HR 3.8) are risk factors for aseptic loosening. Conclusions Long-term survival of the cemented Müller CDH stem is comparable to other Müller-type straight stems and uncemented implants. Similar to the original Ti Müller straight stem, the Ti Müller CDH stem also showed an increased risk for aseptic loosening and should, therefore, no longer be used.

Background and purpose - The original Muller acetabular reinforcement ring (ARR) was developed to be used for acetabular revisions with small cavitary and/or segmental defects or poor acetabular bone quality. Long-term data for this device are scarce. We therefore investigated long-term survival and radiographic outcome for revision total hip arthroplasty using the ARR. Patients and methods - Between October 1984 and December 2005, 259 primary acetabular revisions using an ARR were performed in 245 patients (259 hips). The mean follow-up time was 10 (0-27) years; 8 hips were lost to follow-up. The cumulative incidence for revision was calculated using a competing risk model. Radiographic assessment was performed for 90 hips with minimum 10 years' follow-up. It included evaluation of osteolysis, migration and loosening. Results - 16 ARRs were re-revised: 8 for aseptic loosening, 6 for infection, 1 for suspected infection, and 1 due to malpositioning of the cup. The cumulative re-revision rate for aseptic loosening of the ARR at 20 years was 3.7% (95% CI 1.7-6.8%). Assuming all patients lost to follow-up were revised for aseptic loosening, the re-revision rate at 20 years was 6.9% (95% CI 4.1-11%). The overall re-revision rate of the ARR for any reason at 20 years was 7.0% (95% CI 4.1-11%). 21 (23%) of the 90 radiographically examined ARR had radiographic changes: 12 showed isolated signs of osteolysis but were not loose; 9 were determined loose on follow-up, of which 5 were revised. Interpretation - Our data suggest that the long-term survival and radiographic results of the ARR in primary acetabular revision are excellent.

Background.: Streptococci are not an infrequent cause of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Management by debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) is thought to produce a good prognosis, but little is known about the real likelihood of success.Methods.: A retrospective, observational, multicenter, international study was performed during 2003-2012. Eligible patients had a streptococcal PJI that was managed with DAIR. The primary endpoint was failure, defined as death related to infection, relapse/persistence of infection, or the need for salvage therapy.Results.: Overall, 462 cases were included (median age 72 years, 50% men). The most frequent species was Streptococcus agalactiae (34%), and 52% of all cases were hematogenous. Antibiotic treatment was primarily using β-lactams, and 37% of patients received rifampin. Outcomes were evaluable in 444 patients: failure occurred in 187 (42.1%; 95% confidence interval, 37.5%-46.7%) after a median of 62 days from debridement; patients without failure were followed up for a median of 802 days. Independent predictors (hazard ratios) of failure were rheumatoid arthritis (2.36), late post-surgical infection (2.20), and bacteremia (1.69). Independent predictors of success were exchange of removable components (0.60), early use of rifampin (0.98 per day of treatment within the first 30 days), and long treatments (≥21 days) with β-lactams, either as monotherapy (0.48) or in combination with rifampin (0.34).Conclusions.: This is the largest series to our knowledge of streptococcal PJI managed by DAIR, showing a worse prognosis than previously reported. The beneficial effects of exchanging the removable components and of β-lactams are confirmed and maybe also a potential benefit from adding rifampin.

Background Measuring alpha-defensin concentrations in synovial fluid may help to diagnose periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). There are two commercially available methods for measuring alpha-defensin in synovial fluid: the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based Synovasure® alpha-defensin immunoassay, which gives a numeric readout within 24 hours, and the Synovasure lateral flow test, which gives a binary readout within 20 minutes. There is no compilation of the existing literature to support the use of one of these two tests over the other. Questions/purposes Does the immunoassay or the lateral flow test have better diagnostic value (sensitivity and specificity) in diagnosing PJI? Methods We followed PRISMA guidelines and identified all studies on alpha-defensin concentration in synovial fluid as a PJI diagnostic marker, indexed to April 14, 2017, in PubMed, JSTOR, Google Scholar, and OVID databases. The search retrieved 1578 records. All prospective and retrospective studies on alpha-defensin as a PJI marker (PJI classified according to the criteria of the Musculoskeletal Infection Society) after THA or TKA were included in the analysis. All studies used only one of the two commercially available test methods, but none of them was comparative. After excluding studies with overlapping patient populations, four studies investigating the alpha-defensin immunoassay and three investigating the lateral flow test remained. Alpha-defensin immunoassay studies included 482 joints and lateral flow test studies included 119. The quality of the trials was assessed according to the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. The heterogeneity among studies was evaluated by the I2 index, indicating that the heterogeneity of the included studies was low. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and receiver operating curves were calculated for each method and compared with each other. Results The alpha-defensin immunoassay had superior overall diagnostic value compared with the lateral flow test (area under the curve, 0.98 versus 0.75) with higher sensitivity (96% [90%-98%] versus 71% [55%-83%], p < 0.001), but no difference in specificity with the numbers available (96% [93%-97%] versus 90% [81%-95%], p = 0.060). Conclusions Measurement of alpha-defensin in synovial fluid is a valuable complement to existing diagnostic criteria, and the immunoassay test detects PJI more accurately than the lateral flow test. The lateral flow test has lower sensitivity, making it difficult to rule out infection, but its relatively high specificity combined with the advantage of a quick response time can make it useful to rule in infection perioperatively. Level of Evidence Level III, diagnostic study.

Revision THA is increasingly performed especially in the elderly population. The surgeon’s challenge is to provide a solution that supports immediate full weight-bearing, despite poor bone quality. Shape-closed revision stems facilitate that by combining cement fixation with additional press-fit anchoring. The design tolerates varying cement mantle thickness and inconsistent cancellous bone lining of the femoral canal. Following that philosophy, we present our mid-term results using a long version of a cemented Charnley- Kerboull type stem. From 2010 to 2017, 38 long Charnley-Kerboull revision stems (Centris®, Mathys European Orthopaedics, Bettlach, Switzerland) were implanted and followed prospectively. Surgery was performed via a Hardinge approach in supine position with a third generation cementing technique. Patients were mobilized using full-weight bearing as early as possible. Survival was determined for stem revision for aseptic loosening and stem and/or cup revision for any reason. 20 stems had a minimum follow-up (f/u) of 2 years and were included for further radiological analysis. Detailed subsidence analysis as an early predictor for later aseptic loosening was performed using EBRA-FCA software. Further, the presence of osteolysis and cement debonding was evaluated. Mean follow- up was 4 years. No patient was lost to f/u.18 died of causes unrelated to THA. Stem survival was 100%. Survival for any re-operation was 82.2% (two early infections, one soft-tissue debridement, one cup exchange for recurrent dislocations). None of the cases revised for septic loosening showed signs of persistent infection at final f/u. EBRA-FCA revealed two oligosymptomatic cases of subsidence of 5mm and 6mm over a course of 2 and 12 months, respectively, with stable implants thereafter. Neither required revision. There was no development of osteolysis or debonding. The stem provides a reliable early fullweight bearing solution for revision THA with excellent mid-term survival in an elderly population. Even in two cases where subsidence was present, mobility was not impaired and re-revision could be avoided.

Early subsidence (>1.5mm) has been shown to be an indicator for later aseptic loosening of cemented hip stems. For the cemented twinSys® stem we published excellent short-term results at 2 years. Midterm data for this stem are available from national registers (NZL, NL), however in all of these sources, clinical and radiological results are missing. Aim of our study was to analyse mid-term survival and radiological changes around the cemented twinSys®stem with special emphasis on subsidence using EBRA-FCA. We conducted a prospective clinical and radiological 5-year follow-up study of 100 consecutive hybrid total hip arthroplasties (THA) using a polished, cemented collarless straight stem (twinSys®, Mathys AG®Bettlach, Switzerland) with a cementless monobloc pressfit cup (RM pressfit®, Mathys AG® Bettlach, Switzerland). Median age at surgery was 79 (69 to 93) years. No patient was lost to follow-up. Survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Clinical (Harris Hip Score [HHS]) and radiological (cementing quality, alignment, osteolysis, debonding and cortical atrophy) outcomes and an in-depth subsidence analysis using EBRA-FCA were performed. 22 patients died in the course of follow-up unrelated to surgery, 21 stems had an incomplete radiological follow-up. 2 stems were revised, both due to an infection. The survival rate for the stem at 5 years was 98.0% (95% CI 95.3-100%). The survival rate of the stem for revision due to aseptic loosening at 5 years was 100%. The HHS improved from 53 (14-86) points preoperatively to 90 (49-100) points 5 years after surgery. Osteolysis was found in 2 stems without clinical symptoms. In 49 out of 55 patients with a complete radiological follow-up, the EBRA-FCA analysis was possible and showed an average subsidence of 0.66 (95% CI 0.46 to 0.86) mm 5 years after surgery. 10 patients showed a subsidence >1 mm, 5 of which bigger than 1.5 mm. Subsidence was independent from radiological changes and cementing quality. The cemented twinSys® stem showed excellent clinical and radiological mid-term results at five years’ follow-up and seems to be a reliable implant.

Background and purpose — The use of uncemented revision stems is an established option in 2-stage procedures in patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, in 1-stage procedures, they are still rarely used. There are still no detailed data on radiological outcome after uncemented 1-stage revisions. We assessed (1) the clinical outcome, including reoperation due to persistent infection and any other reoperation, and (2) the radiological outcome after 1- and 2-stage revision, using an uncemented stem. Patients and methods — Between January 1993 and December 2012, an uncemented revision stem was used in 81 THAs revised for PJI. Patients were treated with 1- or 2-stage procedures according to a well-defined algorithm (1-stage: n = 28; 2-stage: n = 53). All hips had a clinical and radiological follow-up. Outcome parameters were eradication of infection, re-revision of the stem, and radiological changes. Survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Radiographs were analyzed for bone restoration and signs of loosening. The mean clinical follow-up time was 7 (2–15) years. Results — The 7-year infection-free survival was 96% (95% CI: 92–100), 100% for 1-stage revision and 94% for 2-stage revision (95% CI: 87–100) (p = 0.2). The 7-year survival for aseptic loosening of the stem was 97% (95% CI: 93–100), 97% for 1-stage revision (95% CI: 90–100) and 97% for 2-stage revision (95% CI: 92–100) (p = 0.3). No further infection or aseptic loosening occurred later than 7 years postoperatively. The radiographic results were similar for 1- and 2-stage procedures. Interpretation — Surgical management of PJI with stratification to 1- or 2-stage exchange according to a well-defined algorithm combined with antibiotic treatment allows the safe use of uncemented revision stems. Eradication of infection can be achieved in most cases, and medium- and long-term results appear to be comparable to those for revisions for aseptic loosening.

Background and purpose — The original Müller acetabular reinforcement ring (ARR) shows favorable medium-term results for acetabular reconstruction in total hip arthroplasty, where it is used when the acetabular bone stock is deficient. However, there are no data regarding long-term survival of the device. We therefore investigated long-term survival and analyzed radiological modes of failure. Patients and methods — Between 1984 and 2002, 321 consecutive primary arthroplasties using an ARR were performed in 291 patients. The mean follow-up time was 11 (0–25) years, and 24 hips were lost to follow-up. For survival analysis, we investigated 321 hips and the end of the follow-up was the date of revision, date of death, or the last patient contact date with implant still in situ. Radiological assessment was performed for 160 hips with a minimum of 10 years of follow-up and with radiographs of sufficient quality. It included evaluation of osteolysis, migration, and loosening. Results — 12 ARR THAs were revised: 1 isolated ARR revision for aseptic loosening, 4 revisions of the ARR and the stem for aseptic loosening, 6 for infection, and 1 for recurrent dislocation. The cumulative revision rate for all components, for any reason, at 20 years was 15% (95% CI: 10–22), while for the ARR only it was 7% (95% CI: 4–12) for any reason and 3.4% (95% CI: 1–9) for aseptic loosening. 21 (13%) of 160 ARR THAs examined had radiological changes: 7 had osteolysis but were not loose, and 14 were radiologically loose but were not painful and not revised. Interpretation — Our data suggest that the long-term survival of the ARR is excellent.

The cumulative incidence of periarticular joint infection is about 1.2%, and there are multiple ways to surgically manage these patients. Arthroscopy is not recommended because of poor outcomes of high infection recurrence. Open debridement and irrigation shows a success rate up to 80%, and this technique should only be considered during the very early stages of infection. For definitive treatment, one-stage or two-stage exchange arthroplasty is recommended, and the success rate after single-stage revision and two-stage revision is about 93% and 86%, respectively. However, comparative studies have not shown significant difference in the success rate of infection control comparing one-stage and two-stage surgery. Static or articulating spacers are implanted in two-stage exchange arthroplasty, and articulating spacers seem to show some advantage with regard to range of motion. Cement abrasion is considered a problem with articulating spacer placement, and there has been no significant difference in clinical outcomes between spacers reported yet.

There is evidence that sonication of explanted prosthetic hip and knee arthroplasty components with culture of the sonication fluid may enhance diagnostic sensitivity. Previous studies on the use of implant sonicate cultures have evaluated diagnostic thresholds but did not elaborate on the clinical importance of positive implant sonicate cultures in the setting of presumed aseptic revisions and did not utilize consensus statements on periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis when defining their gold standard for infection.(1) How do implant sonicate cultures compare with preoperative synovial fluid cultures and intraoperative tissue cultures in the diagnosis of PJI in both THA and TKA when compared against Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria for PJI? (2) Utilizing implant sonicate cultures, what is the relative prevalence of bacterial species identified in PJIs? (3) What is the incidence of positive implant sonicate cultures in the setting of presumed aseptic revision hip and knee arthroplasty procedures, and what treatments did they receive?Between 2012 and 2016 we performed implant sonicate fluid cultures on surgically removed implants from 565 revision THAs and TKAs. Exclusion criteria including insufficient data to determine Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) classification, fungal-only cultures, and absence of reported colony-forming units decreased the number of procedures to 503. Procedures represented each instance of revision surgery (sometimes multiple in the same patient). Of those, a definitive diagnosis of infection was made using the MSIS criteria in 178 of 503 (35%), whereas the others (325 of 503 [65%]) were diagnosed as without infection. A total of 53 of 325 (16%) were considered without infection based on MSIS criteria but had a positive implant sonicate culture. Twenty-five of 53 (47%) of these patients were followed for at least 2 years. The diagnosis of PJI was determined using the MSIS criteria.Sensitivity of implant sonicate culture was greater than synovial fluid culture and tissue culture (97% [89%-99%] versus 57% [44%-69%], p0.001; 97% [89%-99%] versus 70% [58%-80%], p0.001, respectively). The specificity of implant sonicate culture was not different from synovial fluid culture or tissue culture with the numbers available (90% [72%-97%] versus 100% [86%-100%], p = 0.833; 90% [72%-97%] versus 97% [81%-100%], p = 0.317, respectively). Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most prevalent organism for both procedure types. In PJIs, the five most frequent bacteria identified by synovial fluid, tissue, and/or implant sonicate cultures were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (26% [89 of 267]), methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (19% [65 of 267]), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (12% [43 of 267]), α-hemolytic Streptococci (5% [19 of 267]), and Enterococcus faecalis (5% [19 of 267]). Fifty-three of 325 (16%) presumed aseptic revisions had a positive sonication culture. Thirty-four percent (18 of 53) of culture-positive aseptic revision patients received antibiotic treatment for infection and 8% (4 of 53) underwent a secondary revision.The routine use of implant sonicate cultures in arthroplasty revisions improves the diagnostic sensitivity for detecting the presence of bacteria in both clinical and occult infections. Future studies will need to refine colony-forming unit thresholds for determining clinical infection and indications for treatment.Level III, diagnostic study.

Background and purpose — There are 2 basic principles in cemented stem fixation: shape-closed and force-closed. We investigated 2 shape-closed straight stems, the Müller (MSS) and the Virtec (VSS), which differ only in geometrical cross section, to determine whether the difference in stem shape would affect the radiological results or long-term survival. Patients and methods — We included 711 hips (in 646 patients) that were operated on between July 1996 and July 2003. Patients randomly received either an MSS (n = 356) or a VSS (n = 355) and were followed prospectively. Radiographs taken at a follow-up of > 10 years were analyzed for osteolysis. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis was performed using various endpoints. We also performed Cox regression analysis to identify risk factors for aseptic loosening and osteolysis of the stem. Results — After 10 years, KM survival with “revision of any component for any reason” was 92% (95% CI: 88–95) for the MSS and 95% (CI: 92–97) for the VSS (p = 0.1). With “revision for aseptic loosening of the stem” as the endpoint, KM survival was 96% (CI: 9–98) for the MSS and 98% (CI: 97–100) for the VSS (p = 0.2). Cox regression showed that none of the risk factors analyzed were independent regarding aseptic loosening of the stem or regarding osteolysis. Interpretation — The MSS and the VSS showed excellent survival for aseptic loosening after 10 years. For the 2 different stem designs, we did not find any independent risk factors for aseptic loosening or development of osteolysis.

Introduction: During revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), the surgeon commonly faces deficient proximal femoral bone. In this situation, distal fixation of the prosthesis is required. The aim of the current retrospective study is to assess the clinical and radiographic mid-term outcome of revision total hip arthroplasty using a modular uncemented, tapered, grit-blasted, distal straight stem system. Methods: This retrospective study included 70 femoral revisions that were performed in 67 patients using the device of interest. All patients were operated on via an extended trochanteric osteotomy. 60 revisions were performed as 1-stage (12 infected) and 10 as 2-stage (all infected) revisions. At 3 months postoperatively and at final follow-up, patients were assessed radiographically for the presence of osteolysis and for distal integration. Results: The mean follow-up time was 4.3 (2.0-7.6) years. 4 patients had a removal of at least 1 prosthetic component. Stem survival for any reason was 92% after 5 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 83%-100%). With aseptic loosening of the stem as the endpoint of interest, survival after 5 years was 96% (95% CI, 88%-100%). A postoperative subsidence rate of 14.7% was found. No perioperative femoral fractures were found in the current patient series. Conclusions: This study showed excellent mid-term survival and good clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who had undergone revision THA with a modular uncemented, tapered, straight design.

A spherical pressfit cup with a new ceramic liner was introduced in a clinical trial in order to improve range of motion and reduce wear induced problems. The early clinical and radiological outcome was assessed.In a prospective cohort study 181 hips received a seleXys TH+ cup (Mathys, Bettlach, Switzerland) in combination with a third generation ceramic liner (ceramys, Mathys, Bettlach, Switzerland). The Harris Hip Score (HHS), pain (VAS) and range of motion (ROM) were recorded, cup migration and inclination were measured. Experience of any noise was documented.Fourteen hips were radiologically loose, seven of them were revised. Two-year survival of the cup was 92% with radiological loosening as the endpoint. There was no correlation between head size and ROM, no patient had a dislocation. There were no ceramic fractures. Two patients experienced squeaking and three clicking at final follow-up.Reasons for loosening might have been multifactorial but the rate of failure was unacceptably high. The use of large heads did not improve the ROM and development of noise could not be prevented with the modern ceramic. We abandoned the use of this implant system.

Purpose The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term (>ten years) survival rate and radiological results of the Duracon TKA. Methods Between 1992 and 1999 159 Duracon TKA were implanted at our institution. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for the endpoints exchange, addition or removal of any component for any reason, revision due to aseptic loosening and mechanical failure was performed. Radiological long-term (>ten years) follow-up (FU) analysis was performed according to the Knee Society Radiographic Evaluation and Scoring System. Results Mean age at surgery was 74.3 years, 28 % were male, and 89 % had primary osteoarthritis as diagnosis. Mean FU for survival analysis was 10.9 years (SD 4.2). A total of 58 % of the patients died during follow-up. Three patients (2.1 %) were lost to follow-up and five TKA (3.1 %) were revised. After ten years the mean survival was 97.7 %, 99.4 % and 98.3 % for the aforementioned endpoints, respectively. Mean radiological FU was 11.8 years (SD 2.3). We found no significant change in alignment of the components or axis over time. Progressive radiolucencies were found in nine TKA (17 %), mainly around the tibial component (95 %). Conclusion The Duracon TKA showed excellent long-term survival comparable to data from national registers and to other successful designs. Radiological changes found on plain radiographs were scarce after almost 12 years of radiological follow-up indicating good implant stability.

No earlier study has investigated the microbiology of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) foam using a standardized manner. The purpose of this study is to investigate the bacterial load and microbiological dynamics in NPWT foam removed from chronic wounds (>3 months). To determine the bacterial load, a standardized size of the removed NPWT foam was sonicated. The resulting sonication fluid was cultured, and the colony-forming units (CFU) of each species were enumerated. Sixty-eight foams from 17 patients (mean age 63 years, 71% males) were investigated. In 65 (97%) foams, ≥ 1 and in 37 (54%) ≥ 2 bacterial types were found. The bacterial load remained high during NPWT treatment, ranging from 10(4) to 10(6) CFU/ml. In three patients (27%), additional type of bacteria was found in subsequent foam cultures. The mean bacterial count ± standard deviation was higher in polyvinyl alcohol foam (6.1 ± 0.5 CFU/ml) than in polyurethane (5.5 ± 0.8 CFU/ml) (p = 0.02). The mean of log of sum of CFU/ml in foam from 125 mmHg (5.5 ± 0.8) was lower than in foam from 100 mmHg pressure (5.9 ± 0.5) (p = 0.01). Concluding, bacterial load remains high in NPWT foam, and routine changing does not reduce the load.

The aim of our study was to investigate the dynamics of cortical thinning around well fixed cemented Muller straight stems without osteolysis at different time periods during long term follow-up. We investigated patients operated on for osteoarthritis with a cemented Muller straight stem, all with more than 15 years follow-up and no radiological signs of osteolysis. Cortical thinning in 20 THA hips (19 patients) followed for a mean of 20 (16 to 22) years was measured medially and laterally at six levels from the first postoperative, five, 10 years and the last follow-up x-rays. Sixty percent of observed cortical thinning occurred during the first five postoperative years, which was more evident proximally. We conclude that significantly greater cortical bone loss occurs around cemented Muller straight stems during the first five years, than is seen subsequently. We feel that this is a non-pathological process mainly related to the Muller straight stem.

Recurrence rates for toe deformity correction are high and primarily are attributable to scar contractures. These contractures may result from subclinical infection.We hypothesized that (1) recurrence of toe deformities and residual pain are related to low-grade infections from biofilm formation on percutaneous K wires, (2) biofilm formation is lower on titanium (Ti) K wires compared with stainless steel (SS) K wires, and (3) clinical outcome is superior with the use of Ti K wires compared with SS K wires.In this prospective nonrandomized, comparative study, we investigated 135 lesser toe deformities (61 patients; 49 women; mean ± SD age, 60 ± 15 years) temporarily fixed with K wires between August 2010 and March 2011 (81 SS, 54 Ti). K wires were removed after 6 weeks. The presence of biofilm-related infections was analyzed by sonication.High bacterial loads (500 colony-forming units [CFU]/mL) were detected on all six toes requiring revision before 6 months. Increased bacterial load was associated with pain and swelling but not recurrence of the deformity. More SS K wires had greater than 100 CFU/mL bacteria than Ti K wires. For K wires with a bacterial count greater than 100 CFU/mL, toes with Ti K wires had a lower recurrence rate, less pain, and less swelling than toes with SS K wires.Ti K wires showed superior clinical outcomes to SS K wires. This appears to be attributable to reduced infection rates. Although additional study is needed, we currently recommend the use of Ti K wires for the transfixation of toe deformities.Level II, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background and purpose Even small differences in design variables for the femoral stem may influence the outcome of a hip arthroplasty. We performed a risk factor analysis for aseptic loosening of 4 different versions of cemented Müller-type straight stems with special emphasis on design modifications (2 shapes, MSS or SL, and 2 materials, CoNiCrMo (Co) or Ti-6Al-7Nb (Ti)). Methods We investigated 828 total hip replacements, which were followed prospectively in our in-house register. All stems were operated in the same setup, using Sulfix-6 bone cement and a second-generation cementing technique. Demographic and design-specific risk factors were analyzed using an adjusted Cox regression model. Results The 4 versions showed marked differences in 15-year stem survival with aseptic loosening as the endpoint: 94% (95% CI: 89–99) for MSS Co, 83% (CI: 75–91) for SL Co, 81% (CI: 76–87) for MSS Ti and 63% (CI: 56–71) for SL Ti. Cox regression analysis showed a relative risk (RR) for aseptic loosening of 3 (CI: 2–5) for stems made of Ti and of 2 (CI: 1–2) for the SL design. The RR for aseptic stem loosening increased to 8 (CI: 4–15) when comparing the most and the least successful designs (MSS Co and SL Ti). Interpretation Cemented Müller-type straight stems should be MSS-shaped and made of a material with high flexural strength (e.g. cobalt-chrome). The surface finish should be polished (Ra < 0.4 µm). These technical aspects combined with modern cementing techniques would improve the survival of Müller-type straight stems. This may be true for all types of cemented stems.

Background The direct anterior approach (DAA) is increasingly popular for hip replacement. However, the small incision and the location near to the groin might increase the risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). We asked the questions (i) whether there is an increased risk of infection for this approach, and (ii) whether the spectrum of microorganisms differs between patients with DAA and those with lateral transgluteal approach (LAT). Methods All patients operated between 08/2006 and 12/2013 were followed prospectively in an in house register. The DAA was introduced as routine in 02/2009 at our hospital. Patients with primary elective hip replacement without previous operations were included. Follow-up was scheduled after 6, 12 weeks and 1, 2 years. PJI was defined according to standardized criteria. Results One thousand one hundred four patients were studied, 700 were operated with DAA and 404 with LAT. No patient was lost to follow-up. PJI was diagnosed in 23/1104 (2.1 %) patients, 16 (2.3 %) in the group with DAA, and 7 (1.7 %) in the group with LAT. Patients with infection had a higher BMI (p

Aims To analyse the effectiveness of debridement and implant retention (DAIR) in patients with hip periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and the relationship to patient characteristics. The outcome was evaluated in hips with confirmed PJI and a follow-up of not less than two years. Patients and Methods Patients in whom DAIR was performed were identified from our hip arthroplasty register (between 2004 and 2013). Adherence to criteria for DAIR was assessed according to a previously published algorithm. Results DAIR was performed as part of a curative procedure in 46 hips in 42 patients. The mean age was 73.2 years (44.6 to 87.7), including 20 women and 22 men. In 34 hips in 32 patients (73.9%), PJI was confirmed. In 12 hips, the criteria for PJI were not fulfilled and antibiotics stopped. In 41 (89.1%) of all hips and in 32 (94.1%) of the confirmed PJIs, all criteria for DAIR were fulfilled. In patients with exogenous PJI, DAIR was performed not more than three days after referral. In haematogenous infections, the duration of symptoms did not exceed 21 days. In 28 hips, a single debridement and in six hips two surgical debridements were required. In 28 (87.5%) of 32 patients, the total treatment duration was three months. Failure was noted in three hips (9%). Long-term follow-up results (mean 4.0 years, 1.4 to 10) were available in 30 of 34 (88.2%) confirmed PJIs. The overall successful outcome rate was 91% in 34 hips, and 90% in 30 hips with long-term follow-up results. Conclusion Prompt surgical treatment with DAIR, following strict diagnostic and therapeutic criteria, in patients with suspected periprosthetic joint infection, can lead to high rates of success in eradicating the infection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:330–6.

We investigated the cortical bone changes in 35 patients with total hip arthroplasty operated on only for osteoarthritis with more than 10 years of follow-up and with nonrevised femoral components and without radiologic signs of loosening. The mean follow-up was 16 ± 5 years. The thicknesses of femoral cortices were measured medially and laterally at 6 levels from the first postoperative and the last follow-up x-rays. A comparison with 10 patients who had a nonoperated contralateral hip was performed. We found a significant decrease in cortical thicknesses in total hip arthroplasty. The cortical thinning was significant at all periprosthetic levels but less expressed distally. Prosthetic femora were associated with greater cortical thinning as compared with the contralateral nonoperated femora, exceeding that caused by natural aging.

The original forged Müller straight stem (CoNiCr) has shown excellent ten- to 15-year results. We undertook a long-term survival analysis with special emphasis on radiological changes within a 20-year period of follow-up.In all, 165 primary total hip replacements, undertaken between July 1984 and June 1987 were followed prospectively. Clinical follow-up included a standardised clinical examination, and radiological assessment was based on a standardised anteroposterior radiograph of the pelvis, which was studied for the presence of osteolysis, debonding and cortical atrophy.Survival of the stem with revision for any reason was 81% (95% confidence interval (CI), 76 to 86) at 20 years and for aseptic loosening 87% (95% CI, 82 to 90). At the 20-year follow-up, 15 of the surviving 36 stems showed no radiological changes. Debonding (p = 0.005), osteolysis (p = 0.003) and linear polyethylene wear (p = 0.016) were associated with aseptic loosening, whereas cortical atrophy was not associated with failure (p = 0.008).The 20-year results of the Müller straight stem are comparable to those of other successful cemented systems with similar follow-up. Radiological changes are frequently observed, but with a low incidence of progression, and rarely result in revision. Cortical atrophy appears to be an effect of ageing and not a sign of loosening of the femoral component.

Background: Unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) is a well-established treatment for isolated osteoarthritis (OA) of the medial knee compartment. Aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the early clinical and radiological outcomes of a consecutive series of patients treated with medial metal backed fixed-bearing UKA. Furthermore, the influence of the component orientation on the outcome was analyzed. Methods: From 09/2006 to 11/2010 106 patients (132 knees; 69 ± 9 years) were treated using a metal backed fixed-bearing UKA with a MIS approach. All patients underwent a standardized clinical and radiological follow-up at 6 weeks, 1, 2 and 5 years. Mean follow-up was 3.4±1.0 years. Two patients (three UKAs) deceased and two patients (two UKAs) were lost to follow-up. Three different survival analyses were performed using three different endpoints defining failure: (a) revision with exchange of any UKA component (b) aseptic loosening and (c), a worst case scenario, where it was assumed that all progressive radiolucencies would lead to aseptic loosening and thus these were additionally counted. Clinical outcome was assessed usi ng the American knee society score (AKS) and the Oxford knee score (OKS). Radiographic analysis was done according to the American Knee Society Evaluation and Scoring System adapted for UKA and correlated with the AKS and OKS. Results: Five UKAs (3.8 %) were revised to total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) after a median of 25 (10–33) months. Five year survival was 95.2, 97.5 and 87.7 % for the aforementioned endpoints. At final follow-up the median AKS knee score was 99 (50–100) points and the median AKS function score was 100 (60–100) points. The median OKS was 43 (8–48) points. Clinical outcome was independent of the component orientation. Conclusion: Fixed-bearing UKA showed excellent clinical and radiological results at up to 5 years follow-up. Outcome was independent of component orientation.

Purpose There are various options for treating periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Two-stage exchange has traditionally been the gold standard. However, if the appropriate surgical intervention is chosen according to a rational algorithm, the outcome is similar when using all types of interventions. In an observational cohort study, the outcome of patients with PJI after hip replacement treated with one-stage revision was analysed. Methods All patients fulfilling all criteria for one-stage exchange according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America(IDSA)guidelinesandsixwithoutpreoperativeidentificationof a microorganism were included. Implant removal, debridement and cemented or uncemented reimplantations were performed in a single intervention. If a cemented device was implanted, commercially available gentamicin cement was used in all cases. Antibiotic treatment was administered intravenouslyforatleast2weeks,followedbyoraltherapyfor a total duration of 3 months. Patients had standardised clinical and radiological follow-up visits. Results Between 1996 and 2011, 38 patients (39 hips) were treated with a one-stage procedure and followed for at least 2 years. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most frequent pathogens, and polymicrobial infection was observed in five cases. In 25 hips, an uncemented revision stem was implanted, and 37 hips received an acetabular reinforcement ring.Themeanfollow-upwas6.6(2.0–15.1)years.Nopatient had persistent, recurrent or new infection. There were four stem revisions for aseptic loosening. The mean Harris Hip Score was 81 points (26–99) at the final follow-up. Conclusions Excellent cure rate and function seen in our study suggest that one-stage exchange is a safe procedure, even without local antibiotic treatment, provided that the patient has no sinus tract or severe soft tissue damage, no major bonegrafting is required and the microorganism is susceptible to orally administered agents with high bioavailability.

A minimally invasive anterior approach (MIS) was compared to a standard lateral approach in primary total hip arthroplasty. Clinical and radiological outcomes were analyzed 6 weeks, 12 weeks, one year and two years after surgery. The duration of surgery was longer, mobility one week after surgery was better and time of hospitalization was shorter for minimally invasive-treated patients. They had less pain during movement, limping, better Harris Hip Score and satisfaction after 6 weeks, which remained after 12 weeks and 1 year, but not after two years. There were two deep infections in the MIS group. Radiological results were not affected. The infections might be a point of concern, but there were no other disadvantages of the MIS approach. In fact, early rehabilitation was facilitated and clinical results were improved. Our results encourage the continuous use of the MIS anterior approach instead of the lateral approach.

Early subsidence >1.5 mm is considered to be a predictive factor for later aseptic loosening of the femoral component following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to assess five-year subsidence rates of the cementless hydroxyapatite-coated twinSys® stem (Mathys Ltd., Bettlach, Switzerland). This prospective single-surgeon series examined consecutive patients receiving a twinSys® stem at Maria Middelares Hospital, Belgium. Patients aged >85 years or unable to come to follow-up were excluded. Subsidence was assessed using Ein Bild Roentgen Analyse – Femoral Component Analysis (EBRA-FCA). Additional clinical and radiographic assessments were performed. Follow-ups were prospectively scheduled at two, five, 12, 24, and 60 months. In total, 218 THA (211 patients) were included. At five years, mean subsidence was 0.66 mm (95% CI: 0.43-0.90). Of the 211 patients, 95.2% had an excellent or good Harris Hip Score. There were few radiological changes. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated five-year stem survival to be 98.4% (95% CI: 97.6-100%). Subsidence levels of the twinSys® femoral stem throughout the five years of follow-up were substantially lower than the 1.5 mm level predictive of aseptic loosening. This was reflected in the high five-year survival rate.

The effect of leg length differences on early clinical outcome after total hip arthroplasty remains uncertain. We performed a prospective study on 94 patients who were evaluated preoperatively and one year after surgery for clinical leg length differences, which were then compared with radiological measurements. The effect of leg length differences on walking ability, limp, pain and patient satisfaction was studied. The mean clinical leg length difference after operation was 0.05 cm (–1.5 to 1.5, SD 0.5). Clinical and radiological measurements correlated poorly (ω=0.36 pre- and ω=0.186 postoperatively). Patients with a shorter operated leg on clinical assessment were more prone to limping (p Virtually equal leg length was achieved for most patients but small differences had a negative influence in relation to limping and pain. Patients should be counselled pre-operatively about possible leg length differences and associated symptoms.

The aim of this study was to obtain detailed long-term data on the cement-bone interface in patients with cemented stems, implanted using the constrained fixation technique. A total of eight stems were removed together with adjacent bone during post-mortem examinations of patients with well-functioning prostheses. Specimens were cut at four defined levels, contact radiographs were obtained for each level, and slices were prepared for histological analysis. Clinical data, clinical radiographs, contact radiographs and histological samples were examined for signs of loosening and remodelling. The mean radiological follow-up was 9.6 years and all stems were well-fixed, based on clinical and radiological criteria. Contact radiographs revealed an incomplete cement mantle but a complete filling of the medullary canal for all implants. Various amounts of polyethylene particles were evident at the cement-bone interface of seven stems, with no accompanying inflammatory reaction. Cortical atrophy and the formation of an ‘inner cortex’ were confirmed in six of eight stems by contact radiographs and histology, but were only visible on two clinical radiographs. Our results confirm that a complete cement mantle is not essential for the survival of Müller straight stems into the mid term, and support our hypothesis that no benefit to long-term survival can be expected from modern cementing techniques.

Aseptic acetabular loosening cannot be explained with a single theory and lots of studies deal with the influence of implant design and surgical technique on implant survival. Implant registers show the effect of demographic and patient-related parameters on acetabular loosening. There is little information about the influence of the acetabular bone quality on cup loosening. In a prospective study, we investigated the first 122 consecutive routinely taken biopsies out of acetabular bone stock taken during primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) before reaming of the cup. Undecalcified bone samples should be classified in respect to architecture and vitality in different histological types. Four types were defined and the primary diagnosis and the severity of the preoperative radiological changes were correlated to this classification. A total number of 110 (90%) out of 122 biopsies could be classified to one specific type of biopsy, nine were not classifiable and three showed special entities [rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and coxitis]. Double examination showed a high intraobserver agreement (kappa 0.972). There was a correlation between the four defined types of bone biopsies and the radiological severity of osteoarthritis (P

In revision hip arthroplasty, cages are commonly used for acetabular reconstruction in cases with loss of bone stock. It is important to follow this patient group closely, in order to better understand failure mechanisms and the chance of long-term success.We followed our first 164 acetabular revisions with the Mueller reinforcement ring (ARR) in 164 patients, with an average follow-up period of 6 (2-17) years. Mean age at surgery was 69 (29-92) years. 39 patients died (39 hips) during follow-up, but only 3 patients (3 hips) were lost to follow-up.In the observation period, 13 of the hips had to undergo acetabular re-revision for aseptic and septic loosening. Overall survival at 5 years was 95% (CI: 89%-98%) and 90% (CI: 76%-95%) at 8 years using acetabular re-revision or implant removal for all reasons as endpoint. In addition, mechanical and clinical failure was seen in 2 cases. The mean Harris hip score was 70 points, whilst the Merle d'Aubigné score averaged 7 points. Radiolucent lines according to DeLee and Charnley were observed twice in zone I, 6 times in zone II and 14 times in zone III.We found that mid- to long-term survival of the ARR is acceptable. However, failure of the implant due to allograft collapse/resorption or deep infection, and also poor clinical outcome, remain major concerns in acetabular revision arthroplasty. This should be recognized when advising patients.

Background Cemented stems show good long-term results and the survival of new implants can be predicted by their early subsidence. With EBRA-FCA (Femoral Component Analysis using Einzel-Bild-Röntgen-Analyse) early subsidence as an early indicator for later aseptic loosening can be analysed. For the cemented TwinSys stem mid- and long-term data is only avalible from the New Zeeland Arthroplasty register, thus close monitoring of this implant system is still mandatory. Methods We conducted a 2 year follow up of 100 consecutive hybrid THA (Total hip arthroplasty) of a series of 285 primary THA operated between Jan 2009 und Oct 2010. These 100 received a polished, cemented collarless straight stem (twinSys®, Mathys AG® Bettlach, Switzerland) with an uncemented monobloc pressfit cup (RM pressfit®, Mathys AG® Bettlach, Switzerland). The other patients were treated with the uncemented version of this stem and the same cup. Clinical (Harris Hip Score) and radiological (ap and axial x-rays, cementing quality according to Barrack, alignment) outcomes besides an EBRA-FCA subsidence analysis were performed. Results Median age at operation was 78 (68 to 93) years. 5 patients died in the course of follow-up unrelated to surgery. The KM (Kaplan-Meier) survival at 2 years for the endpoint reoperation for any reason was 94.9 (95 % confidence interval 90.6–100 %). Survival for the endpoint aseptic loosening at 2 years was 100 %. The HHS (Harris Hip Score) improved from 56 (14–86) preoperatively to 95 (60–100) 2 years after the operation. Cementing results were judged 47 % Grade A, 45 % Grade B and 7 % Grade C. Osteolysis was found in 2 stems without clinical symptoms or correlation to subsidence or cementing quality. The EBRA-FCA analysis showed an average subsidence of -0.30 mm (95 % CI -0.5 mm to -0.1 mm). 11 patients showed a subsidence of more than 1 mm. In this group one patient showed a subsidence of 1.5 mm and one of 3.1 mm without further radiological changes. Conclusions The twinSys stem showed excellent clinical and radiologic short term results at 2 years follow-up and seems to be a reliable implant.