Search

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is a rare but challenging complication. A paucity of literature exists regarding the management of PJI in UKA. This systematic review aims to assess current treatment patterns in UKA PJI and analyze the failure rates associated with treatment.PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE were systematically searched for studies that presented cases of PJI following UKA. Data regarding study design, country of publication, index procedure type, diagnosis of PJI, number and incidence of PJI, timing of PJI (acute versus chronic), treatment, and outcomes were recorded. Failure rates in acute and chronic PJI as well as total failure rates were analyzed.Sixteen articles were identified that met inclusion criteria. These included 97 PJI cases (37 acute, 58 chronic, 2 unknown timing); incidence across all studies of 0.80%. The most common treatment for all PJI cases was debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) (40.2%), followed by two-stage conversion to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) (33.0%), one-stage conversion to TKA (23.7%), and one-stage exchange UKA (3.1%). There were no significant differences in failure rates across procedures for acute, chronic or overall PJI management (p 0.05 for all).This systematic review found relatively few studies reporting on PJI after UKA compared to the available TKA evidence. Further research is warranted to better elucidate the most appropriate treatment of PJI after UKA in both the acute and chronic setting along with risk factors for failure.

Despite the extensive literature on racial disparities in care and outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), data on manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) is lacking. We aimed to determine (1) the relationship between race and rate of (and time to) MUA after TKA, and (2) annual trends in racial differences in MUA from 2013 to 2018.This retrospective cohort study (using 2013-2018 Medicare Limited Data Set claims data) included 836,054 primary TKA patients. The primary outcome was MUA1 year after TKA; time from TKA to MUA in days was also recorded. A mixed-effects multivariable model measured the association between race (White, Black, Other) and odds of MUA. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. A Cochran Armitage Trend test was conducted to assess MUA trends over time, stratified by race.MUA after TKA occurred in 1.7%, 3.2% and 2.1% of White, Black, and Other race categories, respectively (SMD = 0.07). After adjustment for covariates, (Black vs White) patients had increased odds of requiring an MUA after TKA: odds ratio (OR) 1.97, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.86-2.10, P.0001. Moreover, White (compared to Black) patients had significantly shorter time to MUA after TKA: 60 days (interquartile range [IQR] 46-88) versus 64 days (interquartile range [IQR] 47-96); P.0001. These disparities persisted from 2013 through 2018.Continued racial differences exist for rates and timing of MUA following TKA signifying the continued need for efforts aimed toward understanding and eliminating inequalities that exist in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) care.

There is a paucity of literature on racial differences across a full total joint arthroplasty (TJA) "episode of care" and beyond. Given various incentives, the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) program in the U.S. may have impacted preexisting racial differences across this care continuum. The purposes of the present study were (1) to assess trends in racial differences in care/outcome characteristics before, during, and after TJA surgery and (2) to assess if the CJR program coincided with reductions in these racial differences.This retrospective cohort study includes data on 1,483,221 TJAs (based on Medicare claims data, 2013 to 2018). Racial differences between Black and White patients were assessed for (1) preoperative characteristics (Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index, patient sex, and age), (2) characteristics during hospitalization (length of stay, blood transfusions, and combined complications), and (3) postoperative characteristics (90 and 180-day readmission rates and institutional post-acute care). Additionally, Medicare payments for each period were assessed. Racial differences (Black versus White patients) were expressed in terms of odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) per year. A "difference-in-differences" analysis (comparing before and after CJR implementation, with non-CJR hospitals being used as controls) estimated the association of the CJR program with changes in racial differences.In both 2013 and 2018, Black patients (n = 74,390; 5.0%) were more likely than White patients to have a higher Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index (score of0) (OR = 1.32 [95% CI = 1.28 to 1.36] and OR = 1.32 [95% CI = 1.28 to 1.37]), to require more transfusions (OR = 1.55 [95% CI = 1.49 to 1.62] and OR = 1.77 [95% CI = 1.56 to 2.01]), to be discharged to institutional post-acute care (OR = 1.40 [95% CI = 1.36 to 1.44] and OR = 1.49 [95% CI = 1.43 to 1.56]), and to be readmitted within 90 days (OR = 1.38 [95% CI = 1.32 to 1.44] and OR = 1.21 [95% CI = 1.13 to 1.29]) (p0.05 for all). Adjusted difference-in-differences analyses demonstrated that the CJR program coincided with reductions in racial differences in 90-day readmission (-1.24%; 95% CI, -2.46% to -0.03%) and 180-day readmission (-1.28%; 95% CI, -2.52% to -0.03%) (p = 0.044 for both).Racial differences persist among patients managed with TJA. The CJR program coincided with reductions in some racial differences, thus identifying bundle design as a potential novel strategy to target racial disparities.Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Background: Surgical scheduling, specifically the day of the week on which surgery is performed, has been associated with various postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing lower extremity joint arthroplasty. Purpose: We sought to investigate surgical scheduling as a potential modifiable factor for patient quality metrics and related costs. Methods: In a retrospective prognostic study, all total knee and total hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA) cases that took place in 2017 to 2018 at a multihospital academic health system were queried. Patients were separated by the day of the week the surgery was performed, with Monday/Tuesday compared to Thursday/Friday. Outcomes included length of stay (LOS) (extended LOS defined as 3 days or longer), cost, and complications. Multivariable regression models measured associations between scheduling of surgery and outcomes; odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are reported. Results: Overall, 1,571 TKA and 992 THA patients were included (65% and 35%, respectively, performed on Monday/Tuesday and 70% and 30%, respectively, performed on Thursday/Friday). Patients undergoing TKA on Monday/Tuesday versus Thursday/Friday had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists scores (42% vs 33% with score of 3 or higher) but less often an extended LOS (31% vs 54%; adjusted OR: 2.76, 95% CI: 2.22-3.46), lower skilled nursing facility costs (unadjusted mean, $12,515 vs $14,154) and lower home health aide costs (unadjusted mean, $3,793 vs $4,192). Similar patterns were observed in THA patients. Conclusion: These results from institutional data suggest that surgical scheduling is a modifiable factor possibly associated with postoperative outcomes. Furthermore, more rigorous study is warranted.

Poor preoperative mental health has been associated with worse outcomes after total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To fully understand these relationships, we assessed post-THA and post-TKA improvements in patient-reported mental and joint health by preoperative mental health groups.Elective cases (367 THA, 462 TKA) were subgrouped by low (25th percentile), middle (25th-74th), and high (≥75th) preoperative mental health, using Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores. In each subgroup, we assessed the relationship between preoperative MCS and 1-year postoperative change in mental and joint health. Pairwise comparisons and multivariable regression models were applied for THA and TKA separately.Median postoperative mental health change was +14.0 points for the low-MCS THA group, +11.1 low-TKA, +2.0 middle-THA and TKA, -4.0 high-THA, and -4.9 high-TKA (between-group differences P .001). All MCS groups had improved median joint health scores, without significant between-group differences. Preoperative mental health was negatively associated with mental health improvements in all groups (B = -0.94 - -0.68, P.001-P = .01) but with improvements in joint health only in the low-THA group (B = -0.74, P = .02). Improvements in mental and joint health were positively associated for low and middle (B = 0.61-0.87, P.001), but not for high-MCS groups, with this relationship differing for the low versus high group.Patients who have low preoperative mental health experienced greater postoperative mental health improvement and similar joint health improvement compared to patients who have high preoperative mental health. Findings can guide subgroup-targeted surgical decision-making and preoperative counseling.

Background With increasing use of tranexamic acid in total hip and knee arthroplasties, safety concerns remain. Using national claims data, this study examined tranexamic acid use in patients with preexisting comorbidities. The hypothesis was that tranexamic acid use is not associated with increased complication risk in hip and knee arthroplasty patients with comorbidities. Methods Among 765,011 total hip/knee arthroplasties (2013 to 2016, Premier Healthcare claims), tranexamic acid use was assessed in three high-risk groups: group I with patients with a history of venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, seizures, or ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (n = 27,890); group II with renal disease (n = 44,608); and group III with atrial fibrillation (n = 45,952). The coprimary outcomes were blood transfusion and new-onset “composite complications” (venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, seizures, and ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack). Associations between tranexamic acid use and outcomes were measured separately by high-risk group. The odds ratios and Bonferroni-adjusted 99.9% CIs are reported. Results Overall, 404,974 patients (52.9%) received tranexamic acid, with similar frequencies across high-risk groups I (13,004 of 27,890 [46.6%]), II (22,424 of 44,608 [50.3%]), and III (22,379 of 45,952 [48.7%]). Tranexamic acid use was associated with decreased odds of blood transfusion in high-risk groups I (721 of 13,004 [5.5%] vs. 2,293 of 14,886 [15.4%]; odds ratio, 0.307; 99.9% CI, 0.258 to 0.366), group II (2,045 of 22,424 [9.1%] vs. 5,159 of 22,184 [23.3%]; odds ratio, 0.315; 99.9% CI, 0.263 to 0.378), and group III (1,325 of 22,379 [5.9%] vs. 3,773 of 23,573 [16.0%]; odds ratio, 0.321; 99.9% CI, 0.266 to 0.389); all adjusted comparisons P < 0.001. No increased odds of composite complications were observed in high-risk group I (129 of 13,004 [1.0%] vs. 239 of 14,886 [1.6%]; odds ratio, 0.89, 99.9% CI, 0.49 to 1.59), group II (238 of 22,424 [1.1%] vs. 369 of 22,184 [1.7%]; odds ratio, 0.98; 99.9% CI, 0.58 to 1.67), and group III (187 of 22,379 [0.8%] vs. 290 of 23,573 [1.2%]; odds ratio, 0.93; 99.9% CI, 0.54 to 1.61); all adjusted comparisons P > 0.999. Conclusions Although effective in reducing blood transfusions, tranexamic acid is not associated with increased complications, irrespective of patient high-risk status at baseline. Editor’s Perspective What We Already Know about This Topic What This Article Tells Us That Is New

Background: While the comprehensive care for joint replacement (CJR) bundled payment program for total joint replacement (TJR) emphasizes value, concerns persist regarding unintended consequences, primarily hospital selection of healthier, younger patients. Purpose: We sought to assess changes in patient characteristics and outcomes after CJR implementation in New York State. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included primary total hip and total knee arthroplasties from the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database. Procedures performed before (July 2014 to March 2016; n = 58,610) and after (April 2016 to December 2017; n = 78,728) CJR implementation were compared. Primary outcomes were patient characteristics: Deyo-Comorbidity Index and age. Secondary outcomes were increased hospitalization cost, discharge to institutional post-acute care, and prolonged length of stay. A difference-in-differences analysis estimated changes after CJR implementation, comparing CJR to non-CJR hospitals. Results: We found that CJR implementation (in 49 of 144 New York State hospitals) coincided with slightly older and more comorbid TJR recipients. The CJR program coincided with significantly reduced hospitalization cost and discharge to institutional post-acute care but not length of stay. Some CJR effects appear to have affected non-Medicare patients, as well. Conclusion: This retrospective analysis suggests that in New York State, the CJR bundled payment program did not result in hospitals selecting younger and healthier TJR recipients and coincided with decreased costs and fewer discharges to institutional postacute care.

Background The role of preoperative laboratory values for risk stratification following joint arthroplasty is currently ambiguous. In order to improve upon existing risk stratification within joint arthroplasty, this study sought to define novel phenotypes of total hip or total knee arthroplasty patients based entirely on preoperative laboratory measures. These phenotypes (“clusters”) were compared to elucidate statistically and clinically significant differences in outcomes. Methods A total of 134,252 patients were gathered from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database between 2005 and 2015. “K-means” with 3 clusters was applied using 9 preoperative laboratory values: sodium, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, albumin, bilirubin, white blood cell count, hematocrit, platelet count, and international normalized ratio of prothrombin values (INR). Outcome measures included 30-day readmissions, severe adverse events, and discharge to nonhome. Results Cluster 2 was characterized by elevated preoperative BUN, creatinine, and INR and demonstrated almost twice the rate of adverse events (3.52% vs 2.20% and 2.22%), 30-day readmissions (6.39% vs 3.31% and 3.71%), and discharge to nonhome (47.97% vs 30.50% and 35.85%). Cluster 3 was characterized by a slightly higher risk of discharge to nonhome than cluster 1 and was overwhelmingly female (79.5% female, 35.8% discharge to nonhome). Cluster 1 represents the lowest-risk subgroup, experiencing the lowest rates of readmissions, adverse events, and discharge to nonhome. Conclusion Preoperative laboratory values, namely BUN, creatinine, and INR, are useful in identifying patients at risk of adverse outcomes. This analysis supports the existing surgical literature pushing for preoperative hydration as a targeted intervention to expedite recovery.

After the suspension of elective surgeries was lifted in June 2020 in New York State, challenges remained regarding coordination of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) cases. Using the experience from a high-volume health system in New York City, we aimed to describe patterns of care after resumption of elective TJA.We retrospectively assessed 7,699 TJAs performed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Perioperative characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared between TJAs based on time period of performance: 1) pre-pandemic (PP, June 8th-December 8th, 2019), 2) initial period post-resumption of elective surgeries (IR, June 8th-September 8th, 2020), and 3) later period post-resumption (LR, September 9th-December 8th, 2020).LOS 2 days (83%, 67%, 70% for PP, IR, LR periods respectively) and discharge rates to post-acute care (PAC) facilities were lower during the pandemic periods (ORDespite decreased LOS and discharge to PAC for TJAs performed during the pandemic, 30-day readmissions did not increase. Given the increased costs and lack of superior functional outcomes associated with discharge to PAC, these findings suggest that discharge to PAC facilities need not return to pre-pandemic levels.

Provider-run "joint classes" educate total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients on how to best prepare for surgery and maximize recovery. There is no research on potential healthcare inequities in the context of joint classes or on the impact of the recent shift toward telehealth due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Using data from a large metropolitan health system, we aimed to (1) identify demographic patterns in prepandemic joint class attendance and (2) understand the impact of telehealth on attendance.We included data on 3,090 TJA patients from three centers, each with a separately operated joint class. Attendance patterns were assessed prepandemic and after the resumption of elective surgeries when classes transitioned to telehealth. Statistical testing included standardized differences (SD0.1 indicates significance) and a multivariate linear regression.The in-person and telehealth attendance rates were 69.9% and 69.2%, respectively. Joint class attendance was significantly higher for non-White, Hispanic, non-English primary language, Medicaid, and Medicare patients (all SD0.1). Age was a determinant of attendance for telehealth (SD0.1) but not for in-person (SD = 0.04). Contrastingly, physical distance from hospital was significant for in-person (SD0.1) but not for telehealth (SD = 0.06). On a multivariate analysis, distance from hospital (P.05) and telehealth (P.0001) were predictors of failed class attendance.This work highlights the relative importance of joint classes in specific subgroups of patients. Although telehealth attendance was lower, telehealth alleviated barriers to access related to physical distance but increased barriers for older patients. These results can guide providers on preoperative education and the implementation of telehealth.

Bundled payment models may lead to selection of healthier total joint arthroplasty (TJA) candidates resulting in comorbid patients being taken care of in fewer hospitals. We aimed to (1) evaluate hospital-specific TJA comorbidity burden ("casemix") over time and (2) associations with resource utilization.This retrospective cohort study used 2011 and 2016 New York State data (n = 36,078 hip/knee arthroplasties). Comorbidity burden was estimated by the Charlson-Deyo Index; main outcomes were hospitalization cost and nonhome discharge. Hospitals were categorized into those with a decreased, stable (with a 5% buffer), or increased percentage of comorbidity-free patients (Charlson-Deyo = 0) between 2011 and 2016. Mixed-effects models measured the association between Charlson-Deyo Index category and outcomes, by hospital casemix categorization. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are reported.Overall, 29 (n = 8810), 37 (n = 16,297), and 46 (n = 10,971) hospitals were categorized into the decreased, stable, and increased Charlson-Deyo = 0 categories, respectively, with median annual TJA volumes of 499, 814, and 393 (P.0001). Multivariable models demonstrated that-in hospitals with a stable patient casemix-increased patient comorbidity was associated with increased hospitalization costs (maximum 21.8%, CI 18.9-24.9, P.0001). However, this effect was moderated (maximum 11.1%, CI 8.0-14.2) in hospitals that took on a more comorbid patient casemix. Similar patterns were observed for nonhome discharge.Most studied hospitals show an increase in comorbidity-free TJA patients, suggestive of patient selection. This redistribution of comorbid patients to select hospitals may not necessarily be a negative development as our results suggest more efficient resource utilization for comorbid patients in such hospitals.

A continued growth in the volume of scientific literature may strain the practice of peer review possibly leading to delays in publication. While this appears true anecdotally, exact statistics are lacking. The study goal was to quantify delays in publication in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Eight orthopedic surgery journals with available publication dates between January 2010 and December 2015 were included. Main outcomes were (1) acceptance delay (time from submission to acceptance) and (2) publication delay (time from acceptance to publication). Temporal trends for both outcomes were assessed graphically while simple linear regression was applied to assess statistical significance. 12,811 manuscripts were included that released both acceptance and publication delays. From 2010 to 2015, the median overall acceptance delay decreased from 168 (interquartile range [IQR] 115–225) to 113 (IQR 62–176) days. Similarly, there was a decrease in publication delay from 55 (IQR 26–83) days in 2010 to 16 (IQR 9–54) days in 2015; both trends p

Given increasing demand for primary knee arthroplasties, revision surgery is also expected to increase, with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) a main driver of costs. Recent data on national trends is lacking. We aimed to assess trends in PJI in total knee arthroplasty revisions and hospitalization costs. From the National Inpatient Sample (2003–2016), we extracted data on total knee arthroplasty revisions (n = 782,449). We assessed trends in PJI prevalence and (inflation-adjusted) hospitalization costs (total as well as per-day costs) for all revisions and stratified by hospital teaching status (rural/urban by teaching status), hospital bed size (≤299, 300–499, and ≥500 beds), and hospital region (Northeast, Midwest, South, and West). The Cochran–Armitage trend test (PJI prevalence) and linear regression determined significance of trends. PJI prevalence overall was 25.5% (n = 199,818) with a minor increasing trend: 25.3% (n = 7,828) in 2003 to 28.9% (n = 19,275) in 2016; p

Introduction Although surgical drains have been used routinely in total knee arthroplasties (TKAs), results from several large trials have led to recommendations against their use. Because national data are lacking, we aimed at assessing utilization patterns of drains and perioperative outcomes in TKA procedures. Methods We included 1,130,124 TKA procedures from the national claims-based Premier Healthcare Database (2006 to 2016). Patients receiving a drain were compared with those who did not. Multivariable multilevel models measured associations between drain use and blood transfusions, postoperative infections, 30-day readmission, and length/cost of hospitalization. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported. Propensity score analyses were performed to assess the robustness of results. Results Drain use decreased from 33.0% (n = 22,901 of 69,370) in 2006 to 15.6% (n = 19,418 of 124,440) in 2016 and was particularly higher in large (>500 beds; 27.1%) and nonteaching hospitals (26.9%). After adjustment for relevant covariates, the use of drains (compared with no use) was significantly associated with increases in particularly blood transfusions (odds ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.24 to 1.30 n = 138,306 total transfusions), whereas minimal effects were seen for other outcomes. Propensity score analyses confirmed these results. Discussion Although retrospective, the current study provides an important insight into real-world clinical practice regarding the use of drains. With current evidence not supporting their use in TKA, we found that national utilization is slowly decreasing. Moreover, because drain use is associated with negative outcomes, future studies should focus on drivers of their continued use. Level of evidence Level III, therapeutic study.

Currently there is a lack of insight into what total joint replacement (TJR) surgeons and care teams perceive to be the greatest barriers to collection and use of patient reported outcomes (PROs). The goal of this study was to provide insight on this topic using a multi-institutional survey.A thorough literature review on PROs adoption and utilization was conducted to generate a 26-question survey. This survey was disseminated to joint replacement surgeons, associate providers (e.g., nurse practitioners and physician assistants), and other non-clinical health care staff involved in PRO collection at three institutions. Data from all respondents were analyzed qualitatively and using chi-square tests.Of 37 responses, 24 (65%) were from orthopedic surgeons and 13 (35%) from other clinical and administrative staff. Seventy-one percent of surgeons thought that integration into clinical workflow was the greatest barrier to initial implementation of PROs, while the greatest long-term limitations were accessibility (50%), patient engagement and compliance (50%), ability to represent their health in PROs (54%), and consistency across providers (50%). For PROs to be clinically useful, surgeons required that they should be linked to the EMR interface (65%), immediately available (59%), and are trended over time (59%). Fifty-four percent of surgeons across institutions believed administrative leadership was ultimately responsible for successful PROs implementation, while 46% of other staff believed that responsibility fell to surgeons and clinical staff.Surgeons perceive that the greatest barriers to PRO collection are workflow integration initially, and patient engagement, compliance, and ability to represent their health in PROs over the long term. Stakeholders inconsistently report which group is responsible for successful implementation.

The recent shift toward value-based health care and bundled payments in orthopedic surgery has increased the use patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in standard clinical care. Such assessments of patient function and satisfaction are particularly important among total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients to monitor postoperative health.The purpose of this study was to assess orthopedic care team perceptions of current and future PRO usage and compare current rates and modes of PRO collection between three urban, academic health care systems.A literature search was conducted on current PRO uses and barriers to their adoption to generate a 26-question survey. The survey was disseminated to orthopedic surgeons and care team members at three academic health care institutions (institutions A, B, and C). Responses were analyzed for qualitative and quantitative insights.Among institutions A, B, and C, PRO collection generally declined from baseline (60%, 90%, 89%) to 6 weeks (67%, 82%, 71%) and 3 months postoperatively (44%, 36%, 47%). However, there were large variations in reported PRO collection intervals among institutions. Respondents reported assessing patient baseline functional status as the most useful current application of PROs and cited the prediction of patient benefit from TJA as the most useful future application for PROs. Though respondents were largely optimistic about PRO utility in clinical care, a small minority remained skeptical.Perceptions of PRO utilization and collection intervals varied considerably among respondents. For PROs to be an accurate and useful clinical tool, standardization and thorough understanding of PRO collection among orthopedic care team members is essential.

Background With the advent of bundled payment models, identifying high-performing skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) has become increasingly important. The goal of this study is to develop a rating system to rank SNFs within our health system and to use this system to improve the SNF discharge process at our institution. Methods All SNF-discharged primary total joint arthroplasty cases in 2017 at a multi-hospital academic health system were queried. Discharge patterns were assessed using heat map analysis. Regression analyses in conjunction with structured discussions with subject matter experts were used to identify measures of SNF efficiency and care quality. A revised rating system was developed and used to identify high-performing facilities within our health system. Opportunities to re-direct patients to higher performing facilities were identified. Results A revised rating system for SNFs was constructed based on risk-adjusted SNF length of stay, 30-day re-admission rate, and 30-day emergency department visit rate. As 82% of patients were discharged to SNFs in close proximity to their home, high-performing SNFs (according to the revised rating system) were identified by geographic region. Mapping of the discharge process revealed multiple opportunities where patients could be re-directed to a higher performing SNF in their area. Using conservative estimates (25% of discharges re-directed), this is expected to achieve a cost saving of $2,600,000 over a 5-year period, mainly through reductions in SNF length of stay. Conclusion This study describes the development of a revised rating system for SNFs which, when implemented, is expected to achieve substantial cost savings over a 5-year period.

BackgroundWith increasing emphasis on value-based payment models for primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA), there is greater need for orthopaedic surgeons and hospitals to better understand the actual costs and resource use of TJA. Time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) is a methodology

Background and objectivesThe significance of intravenous over oral acetaminophen (APAP) as part of multimodal analgesic protocols is contested, particularly when considering its relatively high price and use in a surgical cohort such as total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA), which generally tolerates oral medications. This study aims to elucidate APAP’s effectiveness in a large, population-based patient sample.Methods1 039 647 THA/TKA procedures were sampled from the Premier Healthcare claims database 2011–2016. APAP use was categorized by intravenous/oral and use on the day of surgery, postoperative day 1 and thereafter. Outcomes were opioid utilization (in oral morphine equivalents), length and cost of hospitalization, and opioid-related adverse effects (respiratory, gastrointestinal, and naloxone use as a proxy). Mixed-effects models measured the associations between intravenous/oral APAP use and outcomes. Percent (%) change and 95% CIs are reported.ResultsOverall, 23.6% (n=245 454) of patients received intravenous APAP; of these, 56.3% (n=138 180) received just one dose on the day of surgery. After adjustment for relevant covariates, particularly use of >1 dose of intravenous APAP (compared with no use) on postoperative day 1 was associated with −6.0% (CI −7.2% to −4.7%) reduced opioid utilization; this was −10.7% (CI −11.4% to -9.9%) for use of > 1 dose oral APAP on postoperative day 1. Further comparisons regarding other outcomes also favored oral (over intravenous) APAP.ConclusionsThese results do not support the routine use of intravenous APAP in patients undergoing lower joint arthroplasty, especially since oral APAP shows more beneficial outcome patterns.

BACKGROUND: It is currently unknown to what extent routine histological examination of joint arthroplasty specimens occurs across hospitals nationwide. Although this practice is neither supported nor refuted by the available evidence, given the increasing demand for joint arthroplasties, it is crucial to study overall utilization as well as its main drivers. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: Using national data on joint replacements, we aimed to evaluate: (1) What is the current use of routine histological examination of joint arthroplasty specimens? (2) Does the use vary by geographic location and hospital characteristics? (3) Has use changed over time? METHODS: From the Premier Healthcare database (2006-2016) we included claims data from 87,667 shoulder (595 hospitals, median age 70 years, 16% nonwhite), 564,577 hip (629 hospitals, median age 65 years, 21% nonwhite), and 1,131,323 (630 hospitals, median age 66 years, 24% nonwhite) knee arthroplasties (all elective). Our study group has extensive experience with this data set, which contains information on 20% to 25% of all US hospitalizations. Included hospitals are mainly concentrated in the South (approximately 40%) with equal distributions among the Northeast, West, and Midwest (approximately 20% each). Moreover, the Premier data set has detailed billing information, which allows for evaluations of real-world clinical practice. There was no missing information on the main variables of interest for this specific study. We assessed frequency of histology examination (defined by Current Procedural Terminology codes) overall as well as by hospital characteristics (urban/rural, bed size, teaching status, arthroplasty volume), geographic region (Northeast, South, Midwest, West), and year. Given the large sample size, instead of p values, standardized differences were applied in assessing group differences where a standardized difference of > 0.1 (or 10%) was assumed to represent a meaningful difference between groups. For significance of trends, p values were applied. Percentages provided represent proportions of individual procedures. RESULTS: In most hospitals, histology testing was either rare (1%-10%, used in 187 of 595, 189 of 629, and 254 of 630 hospitals) or ubiquitous (91%-100%, used in 121 of 595, 220 of 629, and 195 of 630 hospitals) for shoulder, hip, and knee arthroplasties, respectively. Overall, histology testing occurred more often in smaller hospitals (37%-53% compared with 26%-45% in larger hospitals) and those located in the Northeast (59%-68% compared with 22%-44% in other regions) and urban areas (32%-49% compared with 20%-31% in rural areas), all with standardized differences > 10%. Histologic examination is slowly decreasing over time: from 2006 to 2016, it decreased from 34% to 30% for shoulder arthroplasty, from 50% to 45% for THAs, and from 43% to 38% for TKAs (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although overall use is decreasing, a substantial number of hospitals still routinely perform histology testing of arthroplasty specimens. Moreover, variation between regions and hospital types suggests that this practice is driven by a variety of factors. This is the first study addressing national utilization, which will be helpful for individual hospitals to assess how they compare with national utilization patterns. Moreover, the findings have clear implications for followup studies, which may be necessary given the exponentially growing demand for arthroplasties. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are increasingly used in orthopedic surgery. Data are lacking on which combinations of ERAS components are (1) the most commonly used and (2) the most effective in terms of outcomes.This retrospective cohort study utilized claims data (Premier Healthcare, n = 1,539,432 total joint arthroplasties, 2006-2016). Eight ERAS components were defined: (A) regional anesthesia, (B) multimodal analgesia, (C) tranexamic acid, (D) antiemetics on day of surgery, (E) early physical therapy, and avoidance of (F) urinary catheters, (G) patient-controlled analgesia, and (H) drains. Outcomes were length of stay, "any complication," and hospitalization cost. Mixed-effects models measured associations between the most common ERAS combinations and outcomes. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are reported.In 2006-2012 and 2013-2016, the most common ERAS combinations were B/D/E/F/G/H (20%, n = 172,397) and B/C/D/E/F/G/H (17%, n = 120,266), respectively. The only difference between the most commonly used ERAS combinations over the years is the addition of C (addition of tranexamic acid to the protocol). The most pronounced beneficial effects in 2006-2012 were seen for combination A/B/D/E/F/G/H (6% of cases vs less prevalent ERAS combinations) for the outcome of "any complication" (OR 0.87, CI 0.83-0.91, P.0001). In 2013-2016, the strongest effects were seen for combination B/C/D/E/F/G/H (17% of cases) also for the outcome of "any complication" (OR 0.86, CI 0.83-0.89, P.0001). Relatively minor differences existed between ERAS protocols for the other outcomes.Despite varying ERAS protocols, maximum benefits in terms of complication reduction differed minimally. Further study may elucidate the balance between an increasing number of ERAS components and incremental benefits realized.III.

Background Under bundled payment models, gainsharing presents an important mechanism to ensure engagement and reward innovation. We hypothesized that metric selection, metric targets, and risk adjustment would impact surgeons’ performance in gainsharing models. Methods Patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty at an urban health system from 2017 to September 2018 were included. Gainsharing metrics included the following: length of stay, % discharge-to-home, 90-day readmission rate, % of patients with episode spend under target price, and % of patients with patient-reported outcomes (PROs) collected. Four scenarios were created to evaluate how metric selection/adjustment impacted surgeons’ performance designation: scenario 1 used “aspirational targets” (>60th percentile), scenario 2 used “acceptable targets” (>50th percentile), scenario 3 risk-adjusted surgeon performance prior to comparing aspirational targets, and scenario 4 included a PRO collection metric. Number of metrics achieved determined performance tier, with higher tiers getting a greater share of the gainsharing pool. Results In total, 2776 patients treated by 12 surgeons met inclusion criteria (mean length of stay 3.0 days, readmission rate 4.0%, discharge-to-home 74%, episode spend under target price 85%, PRO collection 56%). Lowering of metric targets (scenario 1 vs. 2) resulted in a 75% increase in the number of high performers and 98% of the gainsharing pool being eligible for distribution. Risk adjustment (scenario 3) caused 50% of providers to move to higher performance tiers and potential payments to increase by 28%. Adding the PRO metric did not change performance. Conclusion Quality metric/target selection and risk adjustment profoundly impact surgeons’ performance in gainsharing contracts. This impacts how successful these contracts can be in driving innovation and dis-incentivizing the “cherry picking” of patients. Level of evidence Level III.

The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate (1) the impact of depression on resource utilization and financial outcomes in bundled total joint arthroplasty (TJA) and (2) whether similar effects are seen using baseline patient-reported outcome scores.All elective bundled TJA cases from 2017 to 2018 at an academic system in the New York City area were included. We analyzed variables associated with cost differences seen between patients with and without depression, and between patients with low (40th percentile) and high baseline (60th percentile) Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey mental component scores (MCSs). We also analyzed whether depression or low MCS could predict worse financial outcomes.Our population included 825 patients, 418 with patient-reported outcome scores data. Depression was associated with higher rates of skilled nursing facility (SNF) discharge (42.7% vs 36.5%, P = .04), SNF payments ($16,200 vs $12,100, P = .0002), and average total episode costs ($31,000 vs $27,000, P = .04). Depression predicted bundle cost to be greater than target price (OR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.04-.16; P = .04) and SNF payment greater than 75th percentile (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.00-3.65; P.05). Similar effects were not seen using MCS.This is the first study to determine that depression predicts bundle cost greater than target price and SNF payment greater than 75th percentile. Our results emphasize the importance of accurate preoperative assessment of mental health in optimization of care, focusing on attenuating the increased SNF payments associated with depression. As similar effects were not seen using MCS, future studies should analyze the use of validated screening tools for depression, such as the PHQ-9, for more accurate assessments of patient mental health in TJA.

Despite numerous antibiotic prophylaxis options for total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA), an assessment of practice patterns and comparative effectiveness is lacking. We aimed to characterize antibiotic utilization patterns and associations with infection risk and hypothesized differences in infection risk based on regimen.A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from 436,724 THA and 862,918 TKA (Premier Healthcare Database; 2006-2016). Main exposures were antibiotic type and duration: day of surgery only (day 0) or through postoperative day 1 (day 1). The primary outcome was surgical site infection (SSI)30 days postoperation. Mixed-effect models measured associations between prophylaxis regimen and SSI as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).SSI prevalence was 0.21% (n = 914) for THA and 0.22% (n = 1914) for TKA. Among THA procedures, the most commonly used antibiotics were cefazolin (74.1%), vancomycin (8.4%), "other" antibiotic combinations (7.1%), vancomycin + cefazolin (5.1%), and clindamycin (3.3%). Here, 51.8% received prophylaxis on day 0 only, whereas 48.2% received prophylaxis through day 1. Similar patterns existed for TKA. Relative to cefazolin, higher SSI odds were seen with vancomycin (OR = 1.36; CI 1.09-1.71) in THA and with vancomycin (OR = 1.29; CI = 1.10-1.52), vancomycin + cefazolin (OR = 1.35; CI = 1.12-1.64), clindamycin (OR = 1.38; CI = 1.11-1.71), and "other" antibiotic combinations (OR = 1.28; CI = 1.07-1.53) in TKA. Prophylaxis duration did not alter SSI odds. Results were corroborated in sensitivity analyses.Antibiotic prophylaxis regimens other than cefazolin were associated with increased SSI risk among THA/TKA patients. These findings emphasize a modifiable intervention to mitigate infection risk.

The United States is experiencing an opioid epidemic, and orthopedists prescribe a large proportion of these drugs. Patients often become dependent on painkillers and face barriers to treatment. Given that many joint arthroplasty patients are enrolled in Medicare, we aimed to examine the ease of orthopedic patients with various insurance types to access addiction and pain specialists.Using three web-based directories, we identified addiction specialists within a 5-mile radius of our hospital. We contacted these practices and inquired as to whether they treated addiction, types of insurance they accepted, and appointment availability.We identified 190 addiction and pain management specialists and were able to reach 134/190 (70.5%). Nine (6.7%) of the 134 reachable physicians accepted Medicare or Medicaid, which is nine (4.7%) of the 190 physicians initially located. The average wait time to an appointment was 4.2 days, and a significant difference in wait time existed across insurance types (p = 0.0284).Orthopedic patients face many barriers to receiving treatment for painkiller addiction. Wait time to see an addiction specialist also varied based on insurance type. Online directories may not be useful for certain patient populations to identify physicians. Orthopedic surgeons should partner with addiction and pain specialists to help alleviate the barriers that patients face.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is an important cost driver in hip arthroplasty revisions, thus necessitating careful trend monitoring. Recent national trend data are lacking; we therefore assessed national PJI burden, trends in prevalence, and hospitalization costs.We extracted data on hip arthroplasty revisions from the National Inpatient Sample (2003-2013; n = 465,209). Trends in PJI prevalence and hospitalization costs were (1) assessed for the full cohort and (2) stratified by hospital teaching status, hospital bed size (≤299, 300-499, and ≥500 beds), and hospital region (Northeast, Midwest, South, and West). The Cochran-Armitage trend test (PJI prevalence) and linear regression (hospitalization costs) determined significance of trends. Trends were adjusted for patient's age, gender, insurance type, race, Deyo-Charlson comorbidities, obesity, length of stay, and hospital characteristics.Overall, PJI prevalence was 15.0% (n = 70,011); adjusted prevalence increased from 13.1% in 2003 to 16.4% in 2013 (P.0001), while adjusted median PJI hospitalization costs increased from $28,240 in 2003 to $31,529 in 2013 (P.0001). Rural hospitals had the lowest PJI burden (12.5%; n = 4,525), while urban and teaching hospitals had the highest PJI burden (16.4%; n = 40,297). The stratified analyses, particularly in large hospitals (500 beds), showed that PJI prevalence increased from 13.0% (2003) to 17.4% (2013; a 33.8% increase; P.0001). Similarly, PJI revision hospitalization costs increased from a median of $27,490 (2003) to $31,312 (2013; a 14% increase; P .0001).The burden of PJI in hip arthroplasty revision is increasing and-while additional research is needed-there appears to be a particular shift of revision burden to larger hospitals with increasing costs.

Background Several studies have shown that Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus) nasal colonization is associated with surgical site infection and that preoperative decolonization can reduce infection rates. Up to 30% of joint arthroplasty patients have positive S aureus nasal swabs. Patient risk factors for colonization remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a specific patient population at increased risk of S aureus nasal colonization. Methods This study is a retrospective review of 716 patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty beginning in 2011. All patients were screened preoperatively for nasal colonization. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess risk factors for nasal colonization. Results A total of 716 patients undergoing joint arthroplasty had preoperative nasal screening. One hundred twenty-five (17.50%) nasal swabs were positive for methicillin-susceptible S aureus (MSSA), 13 (1.80%) were positive for methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA), and 84 (11.70%) were positive for other organisms. In bivariate analysis, diabetes (P = .04), renal insufficiency (P = .03), and immunosuppression (P = .02) were predictors of nasal colonization with MSSA/MRSA. In multivariate analysis, immunosuppression (P = .04; odds ratio, 2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-3.71) and renal insufficiency (P = .04; odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-6.18) were independent predictors of nasal colonization with MSSA/MRSA. Conclusion Overall, 17.5% of patients undergoing primary hip or knee arthroplasty screened positive for S aureus. Diabetes, renal insufficiency, and immunosuppression are risk factors for such colonization. Given that these comorbidities are already known independent risk factors for periprosthetic joint infection, these patients should be particularly screened and when necessary, decolonized.

Background As the prevalence of total hip arthroplasty (THA) expands, so too will complications and patient dissatisfaction. The goal of this study was to identify the common etiologies of malpractice suits and costs of claims following primary and revision THA. Methods Analysis of 115 malpractice claims filed for alleged neglectful primary and revision THA surgery by orthopaedic surgeons insured by a large New York State malpractice carrier between 1983 and 2011. Results The incidence of malpractice claims filed for negligent THA procedures is only 0.15% per year in our population. In primary cases, nerve injury ("foot drop") was the most frequent allegation with 27 claims. Negligent surgery causing dislocation was alleged in 18 and leg length discrepancy (LLD) in 14. Medical complications were also reported, including 3 thromboembolic events and 6 deaths. In revision cases, dislocation and infection were the most common source of suits.. The average indemnity payment was $386,153 and the largest single settlement was $4.1 million for an arterial injury resulting in amputation after a primary hip replacement. The average litigation cost to the insurer was $61,833. Conclusions Nerve injury, dislocation and LLD are the most common reason for malpractice following primary THA. Orthopaedic surgeons should continue to focus on minimizing the occurrence of these complications while adequately incorporating details about the risks and limitations of surgery into their preoperative education.

Introduction: Sciatic nerve injury (SNI) is a potentially devastating complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Intraoperative neural monitoring has been found in several studies to be useful in preventing SNI, but can be difficult to implement. In this study, we examine the results of using a handheld nerve stimulator for intraoperative sciatic nerve (SN) monitoring during complex THA requiring limb lengthening and/or significant manipulation of the SN. Methods: A consecutive series of 11 cases (9 patients, 11 hips) with either severe developmental dysplasia of the hip (Crowe 3-4) or other underlying conditions requiring complex hip reconstruction involving significant leg lengthening and/or nerve manipulation. SN function was monitored intraoperatively by obtaining pre- and post-reduction thresholds during component trialing. The results of nerve stimulation were then used to influence intraoperative decision-making. Results: No permanent postoperative SN complications occurred, with an average increase of 28.5 mm in limb length, range (6-51 mm). In 2 out of 11 cases, a change in nerve response was identified after trial reduction, which resulted in an alternate surgical plan (femoral shortening osteotomy and downsizing femoral head). In the remaining cases, the stimulator demonstrated a response consistent with the baseline assessment, assuring that the appropriate lengthening was achieved without SNI. 1 patient had a transient motor and sensory peroneal nerve palsy, which resolved within 2 weeks. Conclusions: The intraoperative use of a handheld nerve stimulator facilitates surgical decision-making and can potentially prevent SNI. The real-time assessment of nerve function allows immediate corrective action to be taken before nerve injury occurs.

Background Medicare has enacted a mandatory bundled payment program for primary total joint arthroplasty that includes nonelective primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Efficient postacute care management has been identified as an opportunity to improve value for patients. We aimed to identify risk factors for and compare rates of complications by discharge destination and then use those factors to risk-stratify non-elective THA patients. Methods Patients who underwent nonelective primary THA from 2011 to 2014 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database and categorized into those discharged to skilled nursing facility or inpatient rehabilitation facility vs home self-managed/home health (HHH). Bivariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors for postdischarge adverse events were performed using patient characteristics and intraoperative variables. Results In bivariate analysis, skilled nursing facility or inpatient rehabilitation facility patients compared with HHH patients, had lower rates of postdischarge severe adverse events (SAEs; 49% vs 58%; P P Conclusion The most important risk factors for predicting postdischarge SAE and readmission are predischarge SAE, dependent functional status, body mass index >40 kg/m 2 , smoking, diabetes, chronic steroid use, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3/4. Nonelective THA patients without these risk factors may be safely discharged to home after THA. Orthopedic surgeons and their nonelective THA patients must agree on the most appropriate discharge destination through a shared decision-making process that takes into account these significant risk factors and other psychosocial factors.

Bundled payment programs for primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA) have identified reducing nonhome discharge as a major area of cost savings. Health care providers must therefore identify, risk stratify, and appropriately care for home-discharged TJA patients. This study aimed to analyze risk factors and timing of postdischarge complications among home-discharged primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients and risk stratify them to identify those who would benefit from higher level care.Patients discharged home after elective primary THA/TKA from 2011 to 2014 were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using perioperative variables.A total of 50,376 and 71,293 home-discharged THA and TKA patients were included for analysis, of which, 1575 THA (3.1%) and 2490 TKA (3.5%) patients suffered postdischarge severe complications or unplanned readmissions. These patients were older, smokers, obese, and functionally dependent (P .001 for all). In multivariate analysis, severe adverse event predischarge, age, male gender, functional status, and 10 other variables were all associated with ≥1.22 odds of postdischarge severe adverse event or readmission (P.05). THA and TKA patients with 2, 3, or ≥4 risk factors had 1.43-5.06 times odds of complications within 14 days post discharge and 1.41-3.68 times odds of complications beyond 14 days compared to those with 0 risk factors (P.001 for all).Risk factors can be used to predict which home-discharged TJA patients are at greatest risk of postdischarge complications. Given that this is a growing population, we recommend the development of formal risk-stratification protocols for home-discharged TJA patients.

This study aimed at assessing short-term risk of serious cardiac events after elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA) as compared to a less-invasive procedure, knee arthroscopy (KA).Patients who underwent elective primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), or KA from 2011 to 2014 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. A 1:1 propensity matching was used to generate 2 control cohorts of KA patients with similar characteristics. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were assessed using perioperative variables.A total of 24,203 THA, 21,740 TKA, and 45,943 KA patients were included. Bivariate analysis revealed significantly higher rates of serious 30-day cardiac events (myocardial infarction or cardiac arrest) among THA (0.15% vs 0.05%, P.001) and TKA patients (0.14% vs 0.05%, P.03) vs KA controls. In multivariate analysis controlling for patient characteristics and comorbidities, THA and TKA were associated with a 2.61 and 1.98 times odds of serious 30-day cardiac events as compared to controls (P ≤ .03 for both). Additional independent predictors of serious 30-day cardiac events included age, smoking, cardiac disease, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3/4. In the THA and TKA cohorts, serious cardiac events occurred within the first 3 days postoperation compared to 4 days in controls.After controlling for patient characteristics and comorbidities, TJA increased the short-term risk of serious cardiac event compared to a less-invasive procedure. This information better quantifies the risk differential for patients considering surgery as they engage in shared decision making with their providers. In addition, our data may have an impact on perioperative management of antithrombotic medications used in patients with cardiac disease. The median time in days to serious cardiac event was 2 in THA and 3 in TKA vs 4 in KA, which may have implications in postoperative monitoring of patients after surgery.

The United States spends $12 billion each year on ∼332,000 total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures with the postoperative period accounting for ∼40% of costs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of surgical scheduling (day of week and start time) on clinical outcomes, hospital length of stay (LOS), and rate of nonhome discharge in THA patients.Analysis of perioperative variables was performed for patients who underwent THA at an urban tertiary care teaching hospital from 2009 to 2014.A total of 580 THA patients were included for analysis. LOS was higher for the Thursday/Friday cohort compared to Monday/Tuesday (3.7 vs 3.4 days; P = .03). Patients who had a surgical start time after 2 PM had longer LOS compared to patients operated on before 2 PM (3.9 vs 3.5 days; P = .03). After controlling for patient comorbidities and THA surgical approach (direct anterior vs posterior), Thursday/Friday THAs were associated with a 3.27 times risk of extended LOS (75th percentile LOS) compared to Monday/Tuesday THAs (P.001). Additionally, case start before 2 PM was protective and associated with a 0.46 times odds of extended LOS (P = .01). LOS reduction opportunity for changing surgical start time to before 2 PM was 0.9 days for high-risk patients (American Society of Anesthesiology class 3/4 and/or liver disease) and 0.2 days for low-risk patients (American Society of Anesthesiology class 1/2).Patients who underwent THA Thursday/Friday or had start times after 2 PM had significantly extended hospital LOS. Preoperative risk modification along with adjustments to surgical scheduling and/or perioperative staffing may reduce LOS and thus hospital expenditures for THA procedures.

The purpose of this study is to define value in bundled total joint arthroplasty (TJA) from the differing perspectives of the patient, payer/employer, and hospital/provider.Demographic, psychosocial, clinical, financial, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) data from 2017 to 2018 elective TJA cases at a multihospital academic health system were queried. Value was defined as improvement in PROs (preoperatively to 1 year postoperatively) for patients, improvement in PROs per $1000 of bundle cost for payers, and the normalized sum of improvement in PROs and hospital bundle margin for providers. Bivariate analysis was used to compare high value vs low value (50th percentile vs50th percentile). Multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors.A total of 280 patients had PRO data, of which 71 had Medicare claims data. Diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 0.45; P = .02) predicted low value for patients; female gender (OR, 0.25), hypertension (OR, 0.17), pulmonary disease (OR, 0.12), and skilled nursing facility discharge (OR, 0.17) for payers (P ≤ .03 for all); and pulmonary disease (OR, 0.16) and skilled nursing facility discharge (OR, 0.19) for providers (P ≤ .04 for all).This is the first article to define value in TJA under a bundle payment model from multiple perspectives, providing a foundation for future studies analyzing value-based TJA.

Background This study aimed to compare risk of postdischarge adverse events in elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients by discharge destination, identify risk factors for inpatient discharge placement and postdischarge adverse events, and stratify TJA patients based on these risk factors to identify the most appropriate discharge destination. Methods Patients who underwent elective primary total hip or knee arthroplasty from 2011 to 2013 were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were assessed using perioperative variables. Results A total of 106,360 TJA patients were analyzed. The most common discharge destinations included home (70%), skilled nursing facility (SNF) (19%), and inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF; 11%). Bivariate analysis revealed that rates of postdischarge adverse events were higher in SNF and IRF patients (all P ≤ .001). In multivariate analysis controlling for patient characteristics, comorbidities, and incidence of complication predischarge, SNF and IRF patients were more likely to have postdischarge severe adverse events (SNF: odds ratio [OR]: 1.46, P ≤ .001; IRF: OR: 1.59, P ≤ .001) and unplanned readmission (SNF: OR: 1.42, P ≤ .001; IRF: OR: 1.38, P ≤ .001). After stratifying patients by strongest independent risk factors (OR: ≥1.15, P ≤ .05) for adverse outcomes after discharge, we found that home discharge is the optimal strategy for minimizing rate of severe 30-day adverse events after discharge ( P ≤ .05 for 5 out of 6 risk levels) and unplanned 30-day readmissions ( P ≤ .05 for 6 out of 7 risk levels). Multivariate analysis revealed incidence of severe adverse events predischarge, female gender, functional status, body mass index >40, smoking, diabetes, pulmonary disease, hypertension, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3/4 as independent predictors of nonhome discharge (all P ≤ .001). Conclusion SNF or IRF discharge increases the risk of postdischarge adverse events compared to home. Modifiable risk factors for nonhome discharge and postdischarge adverse events should be addressed preoperatively to improve patient outcomes across discharge settings.

The internet is increasingly being used as a resource for health-related information by the general public. We sought to establish the authorship, content and accuracy of the information available online regarding computer-assisted total knee arthroplasty (CA-TKA). One hundred fifty search results from three leading search engines available online (Google, Yahoo!, Bing) from ten different countries worldwide were reviewed. While private physicians/groups authored 50.7 % of the websites, only 17.3 % were authored by a hospital/university. As compared to traditional TKA, 59.3 % of the websites claimed that navigated TKA offers better longevity, 46.6 % claimed accelerated recovery and 26 % claimed fewer complications. Only 11.3 % mentioned the prolonged operating room time required, and only 15.3 % noted the current lack of long-term evidence in support of this technology. Patients seeking information regarding CA-TKA through the major search engines are likely to encounter websites presenting a narrow, unscientific, viewpoint of the present technology, putting emphasis on unsubstantiated benefits while disregarding potential drawbacks. Survey of Materials—Internet.

Background Nursing Home Compare (NHC) ratings, created and maintained by Medicare, are used by both hospitals and consumers to aid in the skilled nursing facility (SNF) selection process. To date, no studies have linked NHC ratings to actual episode-based outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether NHC ratings are valid predictors of 90-day complications, readmission, and bundle costs for patients discharged to an SNF after primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Methods All SNF-discharged primary TJA cases in 2017 at a multihospital academic health system were queried. Demographic, psychosocial, and clinical variables were manually extracted from the health record. Medicare NHC ratings were then collected for each SNF. For patients in the Medicare bundle, postacute and total bundle cost was extracted from claims. Results Four hundred eighty-eight patients were discharged to a total of 105 unique SNFs. In multivariate analysis, overall NHC rating was not predictive of 90-day readmission/major complications, >75th percentile postacute cost, or 90-day bundle cost exceeding the target price. SNF health inspection and quality measure ratings were also not predictive of 90-day readmission/major complications or bundle performance. A higher SNF staffing rating was independently associated with a decreased odds for >75th percentile 90-day postacute spend (odds ratio, 0.58; P = .01) and a 90-day bundle cost exceeding the target price (odds ratio = 0.69; P = .02) but was similarly not predictive of 90-day readmission/complications. Conclusion Results of our study suggest that Medicare's NHC tool is not a useful predictor of 90-day costs, complications, or readmissions for SNFs within our health system.

With the advent of mandatory bundle payments for total joint arthroplasty (TJA), assessing patients' risk for increased 90-day complications and resource utilization is crucial. This study assesses the degree to which preoperative patient-reported outcomes predict 90-day complications, episode costs, and utilization in TJA patients.All TJA cases in 2017 at 2 high-volume hospitals were queried. Preoperative HOOS/KOOS JR (Hip Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score/Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) and Veterans RAND 12-item health survey (VR-12) were administered to patients preoperatively via e-collection platform. For patients enrolled in the Medicare bundle, cost data were extracted from claims. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed.In total, 2108 patients underwent TJA in 2017; 1182 (56%) were missing patient-reported outcome data and were excluded. The final study population included 926 patients, 199 (21%) of which had available cost data. Patients with high bundle costs tended to be older, suffer from vascular disease and anemia, and have higher Charlson scores (P.05 for all). These patients also had lower baseline VR-12 Physical Component Summary Score (PCS; 24 vs 30, P ≤ .001) and higher rates of extended length of stay, skilled nursing facility discharge, 90-day complications, and 90-day readmission (P ≤ .04 for all). In multivariate analysis, higher baseline VR-12 PCS was protective against extended length of stay, skilled nursing facility discharge,75th percentile bundle cost, and 90-day bundle cost exceeding target bundle price (P.01 for all). Baseline VR-12 Mental Component Summary Score and HOOS/KOOS JR were not predictive of complications or bundle cost.Low baseline VR-12 PCS is predictive of high 90-day bundle costs. Baseline HOOS/KOOS JR scores were not predictive of utilization or cost. Neither VR-12 nor HOOS/KOOS JR was predictive of 90-day readmission or complications.

Robotic-assisted unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has gained popularity over the last decade claiming enhanced surgical precision and better joint kinematics, with peer-reviewed publications about this new technology also increasing over the past few years. The purpose of our study was to compare manuscripts about robotic-assisted UKA to those about standard UKA in terms of industry funding, author conflict of interest, scientific quality, and bibliometrics. A systematic search using PRISMA guidelines on PubMed and Google Scholar from 2012 to 2016 resulted in 45 papers where robotic technology was performed for UKA and 167 papers that UKA were performed without the assistance of a robot. Between the two groups, we compared (1) rate of manuscripts with reported conflict of interest or industry funding, (2) journal impact factor, (3) level of evidence, and (4) relative citation ratio. Fifty-one percent (23/45) of robotic UKA manuscripts were industry-funded or had authors with financial conflict of interest, compared to 29% ([49/167], p

Introduction Door openings and increased foot traffic in operating rooms (ORs) during total joint arthroplasty are thought to increase the risk of surgical site infection. Methods Digital manometers were used to collect pressure data during off-hours at the thresholds of both the outer door (ie, the door to the common OR hallway) and the inner substerile door, which opens to the substerile hallway, of six empty ORs used for total joint arthroplasty. Airflow patterns were visualized with smoke studies to determine whether outside air entered the ORs during single or multiple door openings. Data were analyzed using the Student t-test and one-way analysis of variance. Results Positive pressure was not defeated during any door-opening event. The average time for recovery of the initial pressurization in the OR regardless of the door used was between 14 and 15 seconds (P = 0.462). No differences in the degree of room depressurization were noted between entry of personnel through the outer door, passing of a surgical tray through the outer door, and entry of personnel through the inner door (P = 0.312). Smoke studies confirmed that no contaminated outside air entered the OR with single door opening. Outside air entered the OR if two doors were open simultaneously. Conclusion Single door opening does not defeat OR positive pressure, but simultaneous opening of two doors allows contaminated air to flow into the OR. OR traffic should continue to be limited during surgical procedures. OR personnel should be educated about the danger to the sterile field that can result from simultaneous door openings and should be discouraged from such activity.

CASE A 52-year-old man who previously had undergone total hip arthroplasty with use of an Epoch (Zimmer) extensively porous-coated femoral stem presented with hip pain after a high-energy motor-vehicle accident. Radiographs demonstrated delamination at the polyaryletheretherketone-cobalt-chromium (PEEK-CoCr) core interface, which led to loosening. At revision, the implant demonstrated gross evidence of debonding at the PEEK-CoCr interface. CONCLUSION We demonstrate clinical and tribologic evidence of a rare failure mode involving the PEEK-metal interface in a composite femoral stem, which surgeons should be aware of when evaluating patients with this type of implant.

➤ The most common pathogens in surgical site infections after total hip and knee arthroplasty are methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and coagulase-negative staphylococci. ➤ Patients colonized with MSSA or MRSA have an increased risk for a staphylococcal infection at the site of a total hip or knee arthroplasty. ➤ Most colonized individuals who develop a staphylococcal infection at the site of a total hip or total knee arthroplasty have molecularly identical S. aureus isolates in their nares and wounds. ➤ Screening and nasal decolonization of S. aureus can potentially reduce the rates of staphylococcal surgical site infection after total hip and total knee arthroplasty.