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Revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) and total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) procedures are more complex than primary TKA and THA, but their physiologic burden to the surgeon has not been quantified. While rTKA and rTHA have longer operative times, it is unknown whether differences exist in stress and strain compared to primary TKA and primary THA. The study was conducted to elicit whether differences exist in surgeon physiological response while performing rTKA and rTKA compared to primary TKA and primary THA.We evaluated a prospective cohort study of 70 consecutive cases (23 primary TKAs, 12 primary THAs, 16 rTKAs, and 19 rTHAs). Two high-volume fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeons wore a smart vest that recorded cardiorespiratory data while performing primary THA, primary TKA, rTHA, and rTKA. Heart rate (beats/minute), stress index (correlates with sympathetic activation), respiratory rate (respirations/minute), minute ventilation (liters/minute), and energy expenditure (Calories) were collected for every case, along with patient body mass index (BMI; kilograms/meterCompared to primary TKA, performing rTKAs had a significantly higher surgeon stress index [17 vs. 15; p = 0.035), HR [104 vs. 99; p = 0.007], energy expenditure per case [409 vs. 297; p = 0.002], and a significantly lower HRV [11 vs. 12; p = 0.006]. Compared to primary THA, performing rTHA had a significantly higher energy expenditure per case [431 vs. 307; p = 0.007] and trended towards having a higher surgeon stress index [16 vs. 14; p = 0.272] and a lower HRV [11 vs. 12; p = 0.185], although it did not reach statistical significance.Surgeons experience higher physiological stress and strain when performing rTKA and rTHA compared to primary TKA and primary THA. This study provides objective data on what many surgeons feel and should promote further research on the specific stress and strain felt by surgeons who perform revision arthroplasty procedures.

Many fixation techniques have been described to manage intraoperative greater trochanteric (GT) fractures during revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA), but complications such as broken hardware and bursitis are common. The purpose of this study was to determine whether surgical fixation of an intraoperative GT fracture resulted in improved outcomes in rTHA. We reviewed a consecutive series of 1442 rTHA patients at our institution from 2008 to 2019. We identified all patients with an intraoperative GT fracture and noted whether the fracture was fixed surgically or left without fixation. Demographics, comorbidities, complications, radiographic union, and dislocations were compared between the groups. Of the 44 (3%) intra-operative GT fractures identified, 23 (52%) underwent fixation, most commonly with claw plates (8 patients) and cables (10 patients). There were no differences in the rates of radiographic union (86% vs 100%, P =.100), dislocations (4% vs 10%, P =.599), or re-revision (10% vs 13%, P =1.000) between the groups. Patients undergoing fixation had a higher rate of bursitis postoperatively, but it was not significant with the numbers available (35% vs 10%, P =.072). Our cohort of GT fractures at a large revision referral institution represents the largest reported series of GT fractures during rTHA. Surgical fixation in rTHA did not show improved outcomes in terms of dislocation, re-revision, and radiographic union compared with those fractures that were not fixed. There was a trend toward increased postoperative bursitis in the group undergoing surgical fixation. Further research is needed on this topic, as the number of rTHAs continues to increase. [ Orthopedics . 202x;4x(x):xx–xx.]

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) pandemic has continued to generate notable disruption in elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is any difference in patient characteristics, revenue, and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing THA and TKA after the start of the pandemic.We reviewed a consecutive series of 26,493 patients undergoing primary and revision THA and TKA by 48 surgeons in a single arthroplasty practice. We compared demographics, comorbidities, outcomes, and surgeon revenue from THA and TKA procedures from March 2020 to February 2021 with a prepandemic group undergoing a procedure from March 2019 to February 2020.There was a 20% decline in the volume of all cases in the pandemic group ( 11,688 versus 14,664 , P0.001). The postpandemic cohort had shorter length of stay (1.58 versus 1.70 days, P = 0.007), had higher rates of home discharge (98% versus 91%, P0.001), and were more likely to have their procedure done at an outpatient facility (21% versus 7%, P0.001). Even among patients older than 65 years, more pandemic patients underwent a procedure as an outpatient (19% versus 7%, P0.001), with no difference in complications or readmissions. Total surgeon charges and payments declined by 17.6% and 16.3%, respectively, during the pandemic ( P = 0.010).Although the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a notable reduction in surgical volume and revenue loss for our practice, we found a marked shift of arthroplasty patients to outpatient facilities with increased rates of home discharge without compromising patient safety.

Both cones or sleeves have been developed to address metaphyseal bone loss in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but few studies have directly compared the outcomes. The purpose of this study was to compare the survivorship and aseptic revision rates between metaphyseal cones and sleeves at intermediate follow-up.We reviewed a consecutive series of 1,172 revision TKA patients between 2009 and 2018 with a minimum two-year follow-up on all patients. We compared demographics, surgical indication, stem fixation, constraint, rates of rerevision, and Short-Form-12 scores between patients with cones and sleeves. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify the effect of cones and sleeves on aseptic rerevision. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to compare aseptic survivorship of cones and sleeves.There were 194 tibial cones (17%), 107 tibial sleeves (9%), 31 femoral cones (3%), and 135 femoral sleeves (12%) with a mean follow-up of 6.5 years (range: 2-12 years). There was no difference in demographics, indication, stem fixation, or constraint (P.05). Although overall aseptic failure rates may be lower for tibial sleeves, there were no significant differences in survivorship over a one-year, two-year, and five-year follow-up when both tibial and femoral sleeves were directly compared to cones.Both tibial and femoral sleeves and cones perform well at an intermediate-term follow-up. Further investigation of these two are required to better understand their survivorship relative to each other.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) now requires hospitals to publish charges for commonly performed procedures. This study aimed to evaluate compliance with the price transparency mandate and to determine if there is a correlation between hospital charges and episode-of-care claims costs and outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).We identified a consecutive series of 2476 Medicare patients who underwent primary THA or TKA from 2018 to 2019 at one of 18 hospitals. Each hospital website was explored to assess compliance with the new price transparency requirements. Demographics, comorbidities, complications, and readmissions were recorded. Ninety-day episode-of-care claims costs were calculated using CMS claims data. Multivariate regression was performed to determine whether hospital charges had any association with complications, readmissions, or episode-of-care costs.There was no correlation between published hospital charges and inpatient costs (r = 0.087), postacute care costs (r = 0.126), or episode-of-care costs (r = 0.131). When controlling for demographics and comorbidities, there was no association between published charges and complications (P = .433) or readmissions (P = .141). All hospitals posted some shoppable services information online, but only 7 (39%) were fully compliant by publishing all price data. Of the 11 hospitals (61%) publishing hospital THA and TKA charges, the mean charge was $48,325 (range, $12,625-$79,531).Published charges for TKA and THA had no correlation with episode-of-care claims costs and were not associated with clinical outcomes. Despite efforts by CMS to increase price transparency, few hospitals were fully compliant, and a wide range in published charges was found.

Racial and socioeconomic disparities have been associated with complications and poorer patient-reported outcomes after THA and TKA, but little is known regarding the variation of postacute care resource utilization based on socioeconomic difference in the communities in which patients reside. Hip and knee arthroplasty are among the most common elective orthopaedic procedures. Therefore, understanding social factors provides insight into patients at risk for readmission and the way in which these patients use other postoperative resources. This knowledge can help surgeons better understand which patients are at risk for complications or preventable readmissions and how to anticipate when additional surveillance or intervention might reduce this risk.(1) Do patients from communities with a higher distress level experience higher rates of readmission after THA and TKA? (2) Do patients from distressed communities have increased postoperative resource utilization?Demographics, ZIP code of residence, and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) were recorded for each patient undergoing TKA or THA between 2016 and 2019 at two high-volume hospitals. Patients were classified according to the Distressed Communities Index (DCI) score of their ZIP code of residence. The DCI combines seven metrics of socioeconomic well-being (high school graduation, poverty rate, unemployment, housing vacancy, household income, change in employment, and change in establishment) to create a single score. ZIP codes are then classified by scores into five categories based on national quintiles (prosperous, comfortable, mid-tier, at-risk, and distressed). The DCI was chosen because it provides a single composite measure of multiple important socioeconomic factors. Multivariate analysis with logistic, negative binomial regression, or Poisson was used to investigate the association of DCI category with postoperative resource utilization while controlling forage, gender, BMI, and comorbidities. The primary outcome was 90-day readmissions. Secondary outcomes included postoperative medication prescriptions from the orthopaedic team, patient telephone calls to the surgeon's office, physical therapy sessions attended, follow-up office visits, and emergency department visits. A total of 5077 patients who underwent TKA (mean age 66 ± 9 years, 59% [2983 of 5077] are women, and 69% [3519 of 5077] are White), and 5299 who underwent THA (mean age 63 ± 11 years, 50% [2654 of 5299] are women, and 74% [3903 of 5299] are White) were included.When adjusting for age, gender, race and CCI, readmission risk was higher in distressed communities compared with prosperous communities for patients undergoing TKA (odds ratio 1.6 [95% confidence interval 1.1 to 2.3]; p = 0.02) but not for THA. For secondary outcomes after TKA, at-risk communities had more postoperative prescriptions compared with prosperous communities, but no other differences were found. After THA, no major differences were found in the likelihood to utilize postoperative resources based on DCI category. Race was not associated with readmissions or resource utilization.We found that socioeconomic distress was associated with readmission after TKA, but, after controlling for relevant confounding variables, race had no association. Patients from these communities do not demonstrate an increased or decreased use of other resources after post-TKA discharge. Increased awareness of these disparities may allow for closer monitoring and improved patient education and communication, with the goal of reducing the frequency of complications and preventable readmissions.Level III, therapeutic study.

With increased emphasis on improving value in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) care, concerns exist about whether variability in hospital costs between facilities is justified. The purpose of this study was to compare index facility reimbursement among hospitals and short-term outcomes for patients undergoing primary THA and TKA. We queried a single private insurer's claims data, identifying all patients undergoing THA or TKA from 2015 to 2017 performed by 25 surgeons across 16 hospitals within our institution. Hospitals were divided into high- and low-cost facilities based on mean index reimbursement. We compared comorbidities, episode-of-care costs, and short-term outcomes between facilities and performed multivariate analyses. Of 2963 procedures, 1305 (44%) were performed at higher-cost hospitals. Higher-cost facilities had higher mean index reimbursement ($40,597 vs $26,781, P P =.0029), but no difference in complications (2.2% vs 1.8%, P =.3955) or readmissions (2.2% vs 1.5%, P =.1490). On multivariate analyses, higher-cost facility increased index reimbursement by $13,780 (95% CI, $13,489–$14,071, P P P =.5983) or readmission (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 0.9–2.6; P =.1474) risks. Shifting 25% of patients with a CCI of 0 from higher- to lower-cost centers would have decreased inpatient facility costs by an estimated $3,582,784. Wide variability exists between hospital facility costs for THA and TKA without differences in short-term outcomes. Demand matching healthier patients to lower-cost facilities may significantly lower the overall procedural costs of THA and TKA. [ Orthopedics . 2022;45(1):19–24.]

BACKGROUND It remains unknown if a patient's prior episode-of-care (EOC) costs for total hip (THA) or knee (TKA) arthroplasty procedure can be used to predict subsequent costs for future procedures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether there is a correlation between the EOC costs for a patient's index and subsequent THA or TKA. METHODS We reviewed a consecutive series of 11,599 THA and TKA Medicare patients from 2015 to 2019 and identified all patients who underwent a subsequent THA and TKA during the study period. We collected demographics, comorbidities, short-term outcomes, and 90-day EOC claims costs. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify whether prior high-EOC costs were predictive of high costs for the subsequent procedure. RESULTS Of the 774 patients (6.7%) who underwent a subsequent THA or TKA, there was no difference in readmissions (4% vs 5%, P = .70), rate of discharge to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) (15% vs 15%, P = .89), and mean costs ($18,534 vs $18,532, P = .99) between EOCs. High-cost patients for the initial TKA or THA were more likely to be high cost for subsequent procedure (odds ratio 14.33, P < .01). Repeat high-cost patients were more likely to discharge to an SNF for their first and second EOC compared to normative-cost patients (P < .01). CONCLUSION High-cost patients for their initial THA or TKA are likely to be high cost for a subsequent procedure, secondary to a high rate of SNF utilization. Efforts to reduce costs in repeat high-cost patients should focus on addressing post-operative needs pre-operatively to facilitate safe discharge home.

In 2018, Centers for MedicareMedicaid Services (CMS) removed total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from its Inpatient Only (IPO) list, triggering many unintended consequences. The purpose of this study was to determine how the impact of TKA removal affected the number of outpatient TKA patients, which patients were being labeled outpatient, and how outpatient classification affected discharge location and readmission rates.Using a large administrative claims database, we reviewed a consecutive series of 216,365 primary TKA Medicare patients from 2015 to 2020. Patients who had an inpatient status (n=63,356) were compared to patients who had an outpatient status (n=38,510) from 2018 to 2020 based on demographics, comorbidities, discharge dispositions, and readmissions.In 2015, only 1.8% of TKA were designated outpatient, but by 2020, 57.2% of Medicare TKA patients were classified as outpatient. A majority of patients (72%) who had an outpatient designation remained in the hospital for24 hours (average length of stay 2.7 days). Patients who had outpatient status were discharged to skilled nursing facilities more frequently than patients who had inpatient status (3.1 vs 2.0%, p0.001) with increased emergency visits (5.1 vs 3.9%, p0.001) and 90-day readmissions (2.2 vs 0.9%, p0.001).Over half of all Medicare TKA patients are being classified as outpatients three years following the policy to remove TKA from the IPO list. Patients designated as outpatients had higher readmissions than those designated as inpatients. This policy should be re-evaluated in the context of failure to demonstrate safer discharge of Medicare patients who undergo TKA.

Gastrointestinal (GI) complications following total joint arthroplasty (TJA) are rare, but can result in substantial morbidity and mortality, especially when intervention is required. The purpose of this study is to identify modifiable risk factors for the development of GI complications and determine their impact on short-term outcomes following TJA.We queried patients who underwent primary TJA at a single academic center from 2009 through 2018 and collected data on demographics, comorbidities, operative and perioperative details, and short-term outcomes. Patients who suffered at least one GI complication during the same hospitalization as their TJA were identified. The type of GI complication and intervention performed, if necessary, was recorded. Variables that independently affected the risk of GI complication were identified. Multivariate regression was performed to determine the effect suffering a GI complication had on outcomes.Of 17,402 patients, 106 (0.6%) suffered a GI complication. Constipation/obstruction, followed by diarrhea/malabsorption, hemorrhage, and Clostridium difficile were the most commonly reported complications. Patients suffering a GI complication were significantly older (68.5 vs 63.7, P.001), less likely to use alcohol (49% vs 65%, P = .008), and had higher incidences of 8 of the 16 comorbidities analyzed (all P.05). Patients with GI complications had greater lengths of stay (13.2 vs 2.3 days, P.001), discharge to facility rates (58% vs 16%, P.001), and in-hospital mortality rates (1.9% vs 0.1%, P = .002).Patients suffering a GI complication following TJA require longer hospital stays and greater post-acute care resources and have a substantially higher risk of mortality.

Anticipation of patient-specific component sizes prior to total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is essential to avoid excessive cost associated with additional surgical trays and morbidity associated with imperfect sizing. Current methods of size prediction, including templating, are inconsistent and time-consuming. Machine learning (ML) algorithms may allow for accurate TKA component size prediction with the ability to make predictions in real-time. Consecutive patients receiving primary TKA between 2012 and 2020 from two large tertiary academic and six community hospitals were identified. The primary outcomes were the final femoral and tibial component sizes extracted from automated inventory systems. Five ML algorithms were trained with routinely corrected demographic variables (age, height, weight, body mass index, and sex) using 80% of the study population and internally validated on an independent set of the remaining 20% of patients. Algorithm performance was evaluated through accuracy, mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean-squared error (RMSE). A total of 17,283 patients that received one of 9 TKA implants from independent manufacturers were included. The SGB model accuracy for predicting ± 4-mm of the true femoral anteroposterior diameter was 83.6% and for ± 1 size of the true femoral component size was 95.0%. The SGB model accuracy for predicting ± 4-mm of the true tibial medial/lateral diameter was 83.0% and for ± 1 size of the true tibial component size was 97.8%. Patient sex was the most influential feature in terms of informing the SGB model predictions for both femoral and tibial component sizing. A TKA implant sizing application was subsequently created. Novel machine learning algorithms demonstrated good to excellent performance for predicting TKA component size. Patient sex appears to contribute an important role in predicting TKA size. A web-based real-time prediction application was created capable of integrating patient specific data to predict TKA size, which will require external validation prior to clinical use.

Under current Medicare bundled payment programs, when a patient undergoes a subsequent elective procedure within the 90-day episode-of-care, the first procedure is excluded from the bundle and a new episode-of-care initiated. The purpose of this study was to determine if staging bilateral total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures within 90 days have an effect on bundled episode-of-care costs.We reviewed a consecutive series of Medicare patients undergoing staged primary THA and TKA from 2015-2019. Patients who underwent a prior procedure within 90 days were compared to those who had undergone a procedure 90-120 days prior. We then performed a multivariate analysis to identify the independent effect of staging timeframe on costs and outcomes.Of the 136 patients undergoing a staged bilateral THA or TKA, 48 patients underwent staged procedures within 90 days (35%) and 88 patients between 91-120 days (65%). There were no significant differences observed for demographics, comorbidities, complications, readmissions, or discharge disposition (all P.05). Patients undergoing a staged procedure within 90 days had increased episode-of-care costs by $2021 (95% CI $11-$4032, P = .049), increased postacute care costs by $2019 (95% CI $66-$3971, P.001), and reduced per-patient margin by $2868 (95% CI-$866-$4869, P = .005).Patients undergoing staged bilateral THA or TKA within 90 days have increased episode-of-care costs compared to those undergoing a staged procedure from 91-120 days. Since patients may still not be fully recovered from the first procedure, CMS should address the inappropriate allocation of costs to ensure institutions are not penalized.

Background Instability remains the most common complication after revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) and presents a unique treatment dilemma for the orthopedic surgeon. Dual mobility (DM) bearing articulations have been used in France since the 1970s, but have only become more widely adopted in the United States over the last decade. The purpose of this symposium was to discuss the role for DM bearings in revision THA. Methods We reviewed the existing literature on outcomes after DM bearing articulations in revision THA. We also report several case examples of the use of DM in difficult revision THA cases, including acetabular bone loss, failed constrained liner, and adverse local tissue reaction. Finally, we briefly discuss the limitations associated with the use of DM. Results Several large retrospective series demonstrate that DM bearings reduce the incidence of dislocation after revision THA when compared with conventional single bearing THA. Specific complications related to DM bearings including polyethylene wear, loosening, intraprosthetic dislocation, and corrosion remain a concern, but appear to have drastically improved over time with modern implant designs. Conclusion Contemporary DM designs have been established as an effective bearing option to reduce instability in revision THA, although concerns do exist. High-quality prospective studies are necessary to further define the role this bearing option has in the coming years.

Background The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2021 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) includes increases in office reimbursement but decreases in the valuation of total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty and the conversion factor. The purpose of this study was to determine the financial impact of these changes on arthroplasty surgeons. Methods We queried data for 35 arthroplasty surgeons within our practice from 10/2019 to 10/2020 and captured all office and arthroplasty-related surgical procedure codes. We compared the difference in both work relative value units (RVUs) and Medicare reimbursement by surgeon based on the current 2020 PFS to the 2021 changes. We also estimated the impact of several proposals to include office increases to the global surgical package for each code. Results While the mean per surgeon RVU amount for primary arthroplasty procedures will decrease (6267 vs 6,088, P = .78), the mean office work RVU (2755 vs 3,220, P = .16) will increase in 2021. However, the reduction in surgical reimbursement ($530,076 in 2020 to $464,414 in 2021) far exceeds the gains from the office ($99,456 vs $107,374), leading to an overall decrease in reimbursement ($629,532 vs $571,788), a reduction of 9%. The passage of the coronavirus disease 2019 relief bill delays many of the PFS cuts and will result in an overall reduction in reimbursement of 2.4% ($629,532 vs $612,475, P = .61). Conclusion Arthroplasty surgeons are projected to lose 2.4% of Medicare reimbursement in 2021 with the changes in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services PFS. Further study is needed to determine whether these cuts will limit access to care for Medicare patients.

Background Despite the increased use of dual mobility (DM) in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), debate exists regarding the indications for its use. No specific algorithm exists to guide this decision-making process. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to summarize the currently available literature regarding the use of DM in primary THA and provide evidence-based guidelines based on specific patient populations and risk factors for instability. Methods We reviewed the current literature for studies evaluating risk factors for dislocation in primary THA, as well as the clinical use and results of DM in primary THA. Based on the strength of the literature, we discuss the use of DM in specific patient populations. We provide a decision-making algorithm to determine whether a patient may be indicated for DM in primary THA. Results Surgeons should consider preoperative patient demographics, risk factors for instability (eg, significant hip-spine issues), type of procedure to be performed (eg, conversion arthroplasty), and indications for surgery (eg, THA for femoral neck fracture). Based on this algorithmic assessment, DM may be warranted in the primary THA setting if a patient’s combined risk reaches an established threshold based on the literature. Conclusion This evidence-based algorithm may help guide current practice in the use of DM in primary THA. We advocate the continued judicious use of DM in hip arthroplasty. Longer term studies are needed in order to evaluate the durability of DM, as well as any complications related to the DM articulation.

Starting in 2020, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) removed total hip arthroplasty (THA) from the inpatient-only list, resulting in an average of $1637 per case reduction in facility reimbursement. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the reduction in reimbursement is justified by comparing the difference in true facility costs between inpatient and outpatient THA.We identified a consecutive series of 5271 primary THA procedures from 2015 to 2019. Itemized procedural costs were calculated using a time-driven activity-based costing algorithm. Outpatient procedures were defined as those with less than a 24-hour length of stay. We compared patient demographics, comorbidities, and itemized costs between inpatient and outpatient procedures. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine the independent effect of outpatient status on true facility costs.There were 783 (14.9%) outpatient THA procedures. The outpatient THA procedures incurred lower mean personnel ($1428 vs $2226, P.001), supply ($4713 vs $4739, P.001), and overall facility costs ($6141 vs $6595, P.001) when compared with the same THA procedures done inpatient. When controlling for confounding variables, outpatient status was associated with a reduction in total facility costs of $825 (95% confidence interval, $734-$916, P.001).The reduction in CMS reimbursement far exceeds the $825 per-patient cost savings that can be achieved by a facility by performing THA as an outpatient. CMS should reconsider the Outpatient Prospective Payment System classification of THA to better incentivize surgeons to perform THA as a lower-cost outpatient procedure when safe and appropriate.

Background Studies have shown that lower socioeconomic status may result in adverse outcomes following total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The optimal method of defining socioeconomic status, however, continues to be debated. The purpose of this study was to determine which socioeconomic variables are associated with poor outcomes following THA and TKA. Methods We reviewed a consecutive series of 2,770 primary THA and TKA patients from 2015-2018. Utilizing census data based upon the patient’s ZIP code, we extracted poverty, unemployment, high school graduation, and vehicle possession rates. We collected demographics, comorbidities, discharge disposition, 90-day readmissions, and postoperative functional outcome scores for each patient. We then performed a multivariate regression analysis to identify the effect of each socioeconomic variable on post-operative outcomes. Results Patients from areas with high unemployment (p=0.008) and low high school graduation rates (p=0.019) had a higher age adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index. High poverty levels, high unemployment, lower high school graduation rate, and lower vehicle possession rates did not have a significant effect on functional outcomes (all p>0.05). In multivariate analysis, no socioeconomic variable demonstrated an increased rates of rehabilitation discharge, revision, or readmission (all p>0.05). Conclusions Patients undergoing THA and TKA from areas with high unemployment and lower educational levels do have more medical comorbidities. However, none of the four socioeconomic variables studied are independently associated with higher rates of readmission, discharge to rehabilitation, or worse functional outcomes. Patients from disadvantaged areas should not be denied access to arthroplasty care based on socioeconomic status alone.

INTRODUCTION Concerns exist regarding the lack of risk adjustment in alternative payment models for patients who may use more resources in an episode of care. The purpose of this study was to quantify the additional costs associated with individual medical comorbidities and demographic variables. METHODS We reviewed a consecutive series of primary total hip and knee arthroplasty patients at our institution from 2015 to 2016 using claims data from Medicare and a single private insurer. We collected demographic data and medical comorbidities for all patients. To control for confounding variables, we performed a stepwise multivariate regression to determine the independent effect of medical comorbidities and demographics on 90-day episode-of-care costs. RESULTS Six thousand five hundred thirty-seven consecutive patients were identified (4,835 Medicare and 1,702 private payer patients). The mean 90-day episode-of-care cost for Medicare and private payers was $19,555 and $30,020, respectively. Among Medicare patients, comorbidities that significantly increased episode-of-care costs included heart failure ($3,937, P < 0.001), stroke ($2,604, P = 0.002), renal disease ($2,479, P = 0.004), and diabetes ($1,368, P = 0.002). Demographics that significantly increased costs included age ($221 per year, P < 0.001), body mass index (BMI; $106 per point, P < 0.001), and unmarried marital status ($1896, P < 0.001). Among private payer patients, cardiac disease ($4,765, P = 0.001), BMI ($149 per point, P = 0.004) and age ($119 per year, P = 0.002) were associated with increased costs. DISCUSSION Providers participating in alternative payment models should be aware of factors (cardiac history, age, and elevated BMI) associated with increased costs. Further study is needed to determine whether risk adjustment in alternative payment models can prevent problems with access to care for these high-risk patients.

Background The Bundled Payments for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative improved quality and reduced costs following total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA). In October 2018, the BPCI-Advanced program was implemented. The purpose of this study is to compare the quality metrics and performance between our institution’s participation in the BPCI program with the BPCI-Advanced initiative. Methods We reviewed a consecutive series of Medicare primary THA and TKA patients. Demographics, medical comorbidities, discharge disposition, readmission, and complication rates were compared between BPCI and BPCI-Advanced groups. Medicare claims data were used to compare episode-of-care costs, target price, and margin per patient between the cohorts. Results Compared to BPCI patients (n = 9222), BPCI-Advanced patients (n = 2430) had lower rates of readmission (5.8% vs 3.8%, P = .001) and higher rate of discharge to home (72% vs 78%, P Conclusion Despite marked improvements in quality metrics, our institution suffered a substantial loss through BPCI-Advanced secondary to methodological changes within the program, such as the exclusion of outpatient TKAs, facility-specific target pricing, and the elimination of different risk tracks for institutions. Medicare should consider adjustments to this program to keep surgeons participating in alternative payment models.

Unexpected cancelation of scheduled total joint arthroplasty (TJA) procedures creates patient distress and disruption for the clinical team. The purpose of this study is to identify the etiology and fate of cancelations for scheduled TJAs.A consecutive series of 11,670 patients at a single institution from 2013 to 2017 was reviewed in March 2020. All patients who were scheduled for a primary total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty and subsequently canceled were identified. The etiology of cancelation and time to rescheduling were recorded.Of the 505 (4.3%) canceled patients, 209 (42%) were due to medical reasons. Three hundred ninety-one patients (77%) eventually underwent their procedure at a mean delay of 165 days (19-1908). Only 53 (25%) patients canceled for a medical reason underwent further diagnostic or therapeutic intervention for their medical condition. When compared to patient-driven cancelations, those canceled for medical reasons had a higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index (0.82 vs 0.39, P.001), were canceled closer to the scheduled surgery date (8.55 vs 18.1 days, P.001), and were more likely to eventually undergo surgery (86% vs 73%, P = .004).Canceled elective TJA surgeries are most often due to a medical concern, however only a minority of these patients undergo intervention for that medical condition. To minimize the risk of cancelation, healthcare providers may consider early referral of medically complex patients to the patient's primary care physician. After cancelation, patients should have a clearly defined path to return to the operative schedule to prevent further delays.

BACKGROUND Posterior stabilized (PS) polyethylene inserts have been shown to have excellent long-term functional results following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A cruciate-substituting (CS) design has been introduced to minimize bony resection and eliminate concerns regarding wear on the PS post. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent TKA using either a PS or CS insert. METHODS We reviewed a consecutive series of 5970 patients who underwent a cruciate-sacrificing TKA and received either a PS (3,314) or CS (2,656) polyethylene liner. We compared demographics, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Jr (KOOS Jr), Short-Form 12 (SF-12) scores, and revision rates between the groups at a minimum 2 years followup. A multivariate regression was performed to identify the independent effect of design on functional outcomes. RESULTS Revision rates between the groups were comparably low (0.35% for PS vs 0.51% for CS, P = .466) at an overall mean follow-up of 43 months. Patients in the PS cohort had statistically higher KOOS Jr scores at 2 years (69.8 vs 72.9, P < .001). Multivariate regression analysis found CS patients to have lower postoperative KOOS Jr scores (estimate -2.26, P = .003), and less overall improvement in KOOS Jr scores (estimate -2.42, P = .024) than PS patients, but neither was a clinically significant difference. CONCLUSION Patients who undergo TKA with a CS polyethylene insert have comparable functional outcomes and revision rates to those with a PS design at short-term follow-up. Longer follow-up is needed to determine whether CS can match the outstanding track record of PS TKA.

INTRODUCTION: Although the pause in elective surgery was necessary to preserve healthcare resources at the height of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, recent data have highlighted the worsening pain, decline in physical activity, and increase in anxiety among cancelled total hip and knee arthroplasty patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of our staged reopening protocol and the incidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) among elective arthroplasty patients. METHODS: We identified all elective hip and knee arthroplasty patients who underwent our universal COVID-19 testing protocol during our phased reopening between May 1, 2020, and July 21, 2020, at our institution. We recorded the SARS-CoV-2 test results of each patient along with their demographics, medical comorbidities, and symptoms at the time of testing. We followed each of these positive patients through their rescheduled cases and recorded any complications or potential SARS-CoV-2 healthcare exposures. RESULTS: Of the 2,329 patients, we identified five patients (0.21%) with a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction--confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive test, none with symptoms. All patients were successfully rescheduled and underwent their elective arthroplasty procedure within 6 weeks of their original surgery date. None of these patients experienced a perioperative complication at the time of their rescheduled arthroplasty procedure. No orthopaedic surgeon or staff member caring for these patients reported a positive SARS-CoV-2 test. CONCLUSION: Our phased reopening protocol with universal preoperative virus testing was safe and identified a low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 among asymptomatic, elective arthroplasty patients at our institution. With uncertainty regarding the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic, we hope that this research can guide future policy decisions regarding elective surgery.

Health care systems are concerned that facility reimbursements will be reduced based on patient length of stay (LOS) of2 midnights with the removal of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from the inpatient-only list. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of LOS and postdischarge disposition on facility reimbursement.We evaluated a consecutive series of 470 primary Medicare TKA patients performed at a single institution from 2018 to 2019. We analyzed facility reimbursement based on patient LOS and discharge disposition. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using chi-square test, analysis of variance, and Student t test calculations.Overall, the facility was fully reimbursed in 401 patients (85%) at a mean of $11,169. The facility received full reimbursement for 323 of 326 (99%) patients with an LOS of2 midnights who were discharged to home at a mean of $11,156. This reimbursement was significantly (P.001) higher than patients who had an LOS2 midnights who were discharged with home health (mean, $9773) or to a facility (mean, $10,095). For those with LOS2 midnights, there was no difference in mean reimbursement among discharge dispositions ($11,202 vs $11,249 vs $11,085, P = .65).In this study, Medicare TKA patients with LOS2 midnights were fully reimbursed 99% of the time as an inpatient as long as they are discharged to home without home health or to a rehabilitation facility. Those discharged before 2 midnights who require home health service or inpatient facility are more likely to be reimbursed at a lower penalized rate.

Background Both modular and monoblock tapered fluted titanium (TFT) stems have gained popularity over fully porous-coated cylindrical (FPCC) femoral stem designs, but limited data exist comparing subsidence rates following revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study is to determine differences in subsidence and clinical outcomes among 3 revision femoral stem designs. Methods We reviewed a consecutive series of 335 patients who underwent femoral component revision to a cementless modular TFT (n = 225), monoblock TFT (n = 63), or FPCC (n = 47) stem between 2012 and 2019. We evaluated radiographic subsidence rates, re-revision rates, and patient-reported outcomes between the 3 stems. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the independent effect of stem type on the risk of subsidence >5 mm. Results At an average follow-up of 39 months (range, 12 to 96 months), there were no differences in mean subsidence rates (3.5 vs 2.4 vs 2.1 mm, P = .14), HOOS Jr scores (78 vs 74 vs 64 points, P = .15), or aseptic re-revision rates (4% vs 3% vs 0%, P = .29) between modular TFT, monoblock TFT, and FPCC stems. Although modular TFT stems were more often used in patients with extensive femoral bone loss (Paprosky III and IV), there were no differences in subsidence rates >5 mm among the 3 stems (P > .05) in multivariate analysis. Conclusion Modular TFT, monoblock TFT, and FPCC femoral stem designs all perform well in revision THA with no difference in clinical outcomes or subsidence rates. Surgeons should select the stem which they feel is the most clinically appropriate.

With the increasing popularity of alternative payment models, minorities who use more postacute care resources may face difficulties with access to quality total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) care. The purpose of this study is to compare differences in perioperative complications and functional outcomes between African American and Caucasian patients undergoing THA and TKA.We reviewed a consecutive series of all primary THA and TKA patients at our institution from 2015 to 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, 90-day complications, readmissions, Veterans Rand 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), Hip disability Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were compared between African American and Caucasian patients. A multivariate analysis was performed to control for confounding variables.Of the 5284 patients included in the study, 1041 were African American (24.5%). Although African American patients had lower preoperative HOOS/KOOS (33.5 vs 45.1, P.001) and mental VR-12 scores (37.8 vs 51.5, P.001) compared with Caucasian patients, there was no clinical difference at 1 year in HOOS/KOOS (50.2 vs 50.4), mental VR-12 (55.0 vs 52.6), or physical VR-12 scores (39.5 vs 39.8). When controlling for demographics and medical comorbidities, African American race was associated with increased rehabilitation facility discharge (odds ratio, 1.69; P.001) but no difference in readmissions or complications.Although African American patients had lower preoperative functional scores, they made improved postoperative gains when compared with Caucasian patients. Although there was no difference in postoperative complications, further studies should assess social causes for the increase in rehabilitation utilization rates in minority patients.

BACKGROUND The Bundled Payments for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative has been successful at reducing Medicare costs after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Target pricing is based on each institution's historical performance and is periodically reset. The purpose of this study was to examine the performance of our BPCI program accounting for patient complexity, quality, and resource utilization. METHODS We reviewed a consecutive series of 9195 Medicare patients undergoing primary TJA from 2015 to 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, and readmissions by year were compared. We then examined 90-day episode-of-care costs, changes in target price, and financial margins during the duration of the BPCI program using Medicare claims data. RESULTS Patients undergoing TJA in 2018 had a higher prevalence of diabetes and cardiac disease (all P < .001) as compared with those in 2015. From 2015 to 2018, there was a decrease in the rate of discharge to rehabilitation facilities (23% vs 14%, P < .001) and length of stay (2.1 vs 1.7 days, P < .001) with no difference in readmissions (6% vs 6%, P = .945). There was a reduction in postacute care costs ($6076 vs $4,890, P < .001) and 90-day episode-of-care costs ($19,954 vs $18,449, P < .001). However, the target price also decreased ($22,280 vs $18,971, P < .001), and the per-patient margin diminished ($2683 vs $522, P < .001). CONCLUSION Surgeons have maintained quality of care at a reduced cost despite increasing patient complexity. The target price adjustments resulted in declining margins during the course of our BPCI experience. Policy makers should consider changes to target price methodology to encourage participation in these successful cost-saving programs.

Recent evidence has demonstrated that formal physical therapy (PT) may not be required for most patients undergoing total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty. This study compared the differences in costs and functional outcomes in patients receiving formal PT and those who did not follow primary THA and TKA.We queried claims data from a single private insurer identifying patients who underwent primary THA or TKA from 2015 to 2017 in our practice. Demographics, comorbidities, number, and cost of PT visits in a 90-day episode of care were recorded. Outcomes were compared between patients using self-directed home exercises, home PT, outpatient PT, or both home and outpatient PT. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify significant predictors of outcomes.Of the 2971 patients included in analysis, patients using both services had higher 90-day PT costs (mean $2091, P.001) than those using home PT alone ($1146), outpatient PT alone ($1356), or no formal PT ($0). Home PT had the greatest cost per visit for both private insurance patients ($177/visit) and Medicare Advantage patients ($157/visit), but patients using both home PT and outpatient PT services had the greatest overall PT cost, $2091 for private insurance and $1891 for Medicare Advantage. Patients who used home PT were at significantly higher risk of both complications (odds ratio = 3.21; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-4.9; P.001) and readmissions (odds ratio = 3.4; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-5.5; P.001).Participation in formal PT accounts for up to 8% of the episode of care following THA and TKA. The role of formal PT for most patients should take into account the cost-effectiveness of the intervention.

Background Several studies have shown that the removal of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) inpatient-only (IPO) list has caused confusion among surgeons, hospitals, and patients. The purpose of this study is to determine whether similar confusion was present after CMS recently removed total hip arthroplasty (THA) from the IPO list. Methods We surveyed the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons membership via an online web-based questionnaire in February 2020. The 12-question form asked about practice type and the impact that having both THA and TKA removed from the IPO list has had on each surgeon’s practice. Responses were tabulated and descriptive statistics of each question reported. Results Of the 2847 American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons members surveyed, 419 responded (14.7% response rate). Three hundred forty-one surgeons (81%) stated that changes to IPO status have increased their practice’s administrative burden. Fifty-four percent of surgeons reported that they have needed to obtain preauthorization or appeal a denial of preauthorization for an inpatient total joint arthroplasty at least monthly, while 257 surgeons (61%) have had patients contact their office regarding an unexpected copayment. Despite the commitment of CMS to waiving certain audits for 2 years, 43 respondents (10%) stated they had undergone an audit regarding a patient’s inpatient status. Conclusion The removal of THA and TKA from the IPO list continues to be an administrative burden for arthroplasty surgeons and a source of confusion among patients. CMS should provide additional guidance to address surgeons’ concerns about preauthorization for inpatient stays, unexpected patient copayments, and CMS audits.

With the increasing popularity of alternative payment models following total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA), efforts have focused on reducing post-acute care (PAC) costs, particularly patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). The purpose of this study is to determine if preferentially discharging patients to high-quality SNFs can reduce bundled payment costs for primary THA and TKA.At our institution, a quality improvement initiative for SNFs was implemented at the start of 2017, preferentially discharging patients to internally credentialed facilities, designated by several quality measures. Claims data from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services were queried to identify patients discharged to SNF following primary total joint arthroplasty. We compared costs and outcomes between patients discharged to credentialed SNF sites and those discharged to other sites.Between 2015 and 2018, of a consecutive series of 8778 primary THA and TKA patients, 1284 (14.6%) were discharged to an SNF. Following initiation of the program, 498 patients were discharged to an SNF, 301 (60.4%) of which were sent to a credentialed facility. Patients at credentialed facilities had significantly lower SNF costs ($11,184 vs $8198, P.0001), PAC costs ($18,952 vs $15,148, P.0001), and episode-of-care costs ($34,557 vs $30,831, P.0001), with no difference in readmissions (10% vs 12%, P = .33) or complications (8% vs 6%, P = .15). Controlling for confounding variables, being discharged to a credentialed facility decreased SNF costs by $1961 (P = .0020) and PAC costs by $3126 (P = .0031) per patient.Quality improvement efforts through partnership with selective SNFs can significantly decrease PAC costs for patients undergoing primary THA and TKA.

Background Implementation of rapid recovery protocols and value-based programs in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has required changes in preoperative management, such as optimization, education, and coordination. This study aimed to quantify the work burden associated with preoperative TJA care. Methods Two web-based surveys were distributed to surgeon members of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons. The first questionnaire (265 respondents) consisted of questions related to preoperative patient care in TJA and the associated work burden by orthopedic surgeons and their financially dependent health care providers. The second survey (561 respondents) consisted of questions related to relative change in preoperative patient care work burden since 2013. Results Greater than 98% of survey respondents reported providing some level of preoperative medical optimization to their patients. The mean amount of reported time spent by the surgeon and/or a qualified health care provider in preoperative activities not included in work captured in current procedural terminology or hospital billing codes was 153 minutes. The mean amount of reported time spent by ancillary clinical staff in preoperative activities was 177 minutes. Most surgeons reported an increase in work burden for total knee (86%) and total hip (87%) arthroplasty since 2013, with a large portion reporting a 20% or greater increase in work (knee 66%, hip 64%). Conclusion To provide quality arthroplasty care with marked reductions in complication rates, lengths of stay, and readmissions, members of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons report a substantial preoperative work burden that is not included in current coding metrics. Policy makers should account for this time in coding models to continue to promote pathway improvements.

Background Probability-based computer algorithms that reduce patient burden are currently in high demand. These computer adaptive testing (CAT) methods improve workflow and reduce patient frustration, while achieving high measurement precision. In this study, we evaluated the accuracy and validity of the CAT Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) and the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Joint Replacement (HOOS-JR) by comparing them to the full version of these scoring systems in a subset of patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasties. Methods A previously developed CAT HOOS and HOOS-JR was applied to 354 and 1547 HOOS and HOOS-JR patient responses, respectively. Mean, standard deviations, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, interclass correlation coefficients, frequency distribution plots, and Bland-Altman plots were used to compare the precision, validity, and accuracy between CAT scores and full-form scores. Results By modifying the questions to past responses, the CAT HOOS demonstrated a mean reduction of 30% of questions (28 vs 40 questions). There were no significant differences between the full HOOS and CAT HOOS with respect to pain (P = .73), symptoms (P = .94), quality of life (P = .99), activities of daily living (P = .82), and sports (P = .99). There were strong linear relationships between the CAT versions and the standard questionnaires (r > 0.99). The Bland-Altman plot showed that differences between CAT HOOS and full HOOS were independent of the overall scores. Conclusion The CAT HOOS and HOOS-JR have high correlation and require fewer questions to finish compared to the standard full-form questionnaires. This may represent a reliable and practical alternative that may be less burdensome to patients and may help improve compliance for reporting outcome metrics.

Robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) has become a popular technology. Studies have investigated the learning curve for surgeons incorporating RA-TKA into practice, but less is known regarding the change in operative efficiency when introducing RA-TKA into a facility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of RA-TKA on operative and turnover time at an orthopaedic specialty hospital.A total of 148 cases (74 RA-TKA and 74 conventional TKA [C-TKA]) performed by 2 surgeons with previous robotic experience were identified following the introduction of RA-TKA at our facility. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and operative times (ie, wheels-in to incision, incision to closure, closure to wheels-out, and turnover time) were recorded. Cumulative summation analyses were used to investigate learning curves of factors extraneous to surgeon proficiency with RA-TKA.While RA-TKA had a slightly longer set up (3 minutes; range, 12-45), surgical (5 minutes; range, 33-118), and breakdown time (3 minutes; range, 2-7), there was no difference in turnover time between the groups. The learning curve for surgeon A was 6 robotic cases, whereas surgeon B demonstrated no learning curve. There was no identifiable learning curve for turnover time.There was a mean of 8 minutes of increased time required to perform a RA-TKA compared to C-TKA. However, these small increases for the RA-TKA group for set-up, surgical, and breakdown times are not likely to be clinically relevant compared to the C-TKA. It appears that the RA-TKA technology was able to be incorporated into this specialty hospital with minimal changes to surgical efficiency.