Articles tagged with Orthopedics
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new minimally invasive tendon repair technique that supports knee movement sooner after surgery. The suture anchor technique, which requires a smaller incision and disrupts less tissue, showed better strength results in human cadaveric tendon specimens.
A new study found that visiting consultant clinics (VCCs) with orthopaedic surgeons traveling to meet patients in rural areas significantly improved access to care. The average driving distance to the nearest orthopaedic surgeon was reduced by more than 50% for 450,000 to 670,000 Iowa residents.
A Loyola Medicine study found no differences in bacterial infections between knee replacement patients who showered two days after surgery and those who waited 10-14 days. Patients overwhelmingly preferred early showering, with 94% reporting its importance.
A recent study published in The British Medical Journal found that deprived patients and those admitted at weekends are least likely to receive the recommended total hip replacement surgery. Despite national guidelines setting out who should get the procedure, substantial variation in compliance between hospitals was observed.
A large study of nearly 29,000 outpatient hand and shoulder surgeries found a 0.2 percent complication rate, with most complications being post-operative infections or blood clots. The study suggests that proper patient selection can make these procedures safe at freestanding ambulatory surgery centers.
Minimalist running shoes with forefoot strike may reduce repetitive strain on the knee, lower leg, and heel. However, runners should still exercise caution and transition to a new gait pattern gradually to avoid injuries.
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that peripheral nerve blocks significantly reduce cardiac and wound complications in hip and knee replacement patients. The use of PNBs was associated with lower odds for almost all complications, particularly in resource utilization.
A new handheld 3D printing device has been developed to create bespoke scaffolds for cartilage repair, with cell survival rates in excess of 97%. The BioPen allows surgeons to sculpt customised implants during surgery, addressing the challenge of precise geometry.
A study of elite adolescent pitchers found that fatigue significantly impacted pitching mechanics, causing pain and potentially leading to injuries. Core and leg strength were identified as key components in preventing such injuries through targeted training programs.
Research finds that single and double-bundle ACL reconstruction techniques yield comparable outcomes in patients undergoing surgery, with both groups demonstrating similar knee stability and health post-recovery. The study also notes no significant difference in performance tests between the two techniques.
Researchers found a genetic connection between athlete genotype and prolonged recovery time following sports-related concussions. Athletes with specific gene variations were more likely to experience balance issues and delayed recovery.
Research shows that young baseball pitchers who participate in preseason training programs experience improvements in arm flexibility and strength, potentially diminishing the risk of injuries. The study found that pitchers who had previous injuries were 4 times less likely to suffer an injury after participating in the program.
Researchers developed an arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction (ASCR) procedure that restored shoulder function at a greater rate than previous treatments. This new method helped patients return to recreational activities and work sooner, with 92% of individuals experiencing significant improvements in strength and function.
Digital fitness devices can empower patients to monitor their health and activity levels, ultimately improving clinical outcomes. By analyzing data from these devices, non-surgical, pre-operative, and post-operative patients can optimize their care and rehabilitation progress.
A study by American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that ill-fitting helmets increase the risk of severe concussions in high school football players. Helmet fit affects cervical muscle function and brain impact during hits.
Researchers found that self-guided exercise programs can be as effective as traditional physical therapy for patients undergoing total hip replacement. The study also suggests that activating the quadriceps muscles immediately after total knee replacement may improve rehabilitation progress.
A study found that nearly 80% of rural fracture patients avoided traveling to an urban medical center through remote care, which also provided significant savings in transportation and healthcare costs.
Two studies found that patients who reduced their opioid use prior to joint replacement surgery had improved patient satisfaction and outcomes, fewer complications, and a reduced need for post-surgical opioids. Patients with chronic opioid use were more likely to experience prolonged pain and higher rates of post-operative complications.
A new study of 274 patients undergoing total hip replacement found that the surgical approach had no significant impact on pre- or post-surgical pain and function. The results suggest that both anterior and posterior approaches yield excellent, equivalent outcomes for patients.
A study of 1,525 patients who underwent hip fracture surgery found that hypothermia is associated with an increased risk of deep surgical site infections. Patients over 70 and those with lower body mass index (BMI) were more prone to hypothermia.
A three-year pilot program at NYU Langone Medical Center reported reductions in patient length-of-stay and readmission rates among Medicare patients undergoing total joint replacements. The bundled payment initiative resulted in lower overall costs while improving quality of care and patient outcomes.
Two studies found that steroid injections received in the months prior to total knee and hip replacement surgeries may increase the risk of infection. Injections containing corticosteroids suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to severe post-operative infections.
A new study published by Hospital for Special Surgery recommends patients wait at least three months after a steroid injection to avoid an increased infection risk before undergoing hip replacement surgery. Researchers found that the immune system is weakened by corticosteroids, contributing to a higher risk of surgical site infections.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health successfully performed ultra-low dose CT scans to diagnose joint fractures with 14 times less radiation, achieving 98% sensitivity and comparable image quality. The protocol, called REDUCTION, has significant implications for public health and safety.
Patients aged under 45 and 75 years and older report greater pain and lower activity levels following TKR surgery. Despite comparable range of motion improvements across all age groups, these patients experience more challenges with daily activities.
A recent study at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting found that physician empathy is a key driver of patient satisfaction, explaining 65% of variation in satisfaction. Effective communication strategies can be coached and practiced to improve patient experience.
Osteoporosis medications bisphosphonates have significantly reduced fracture risks but also increase the risk of atypical femur fractures. Treatment involves stopping the drug and supplementing with calcium and vitamin D.
A new study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that a sustainable surgical follow-up program can be cost-effective in ensuring acceptable outcomes for patients treated during short-term mission trips. The study showed that 97% of fractures were successfully repaired, and 101 patients experienced successful wound healing.
A new study at Hospital for Special Surgery finds that low-dose EOS imaging system performs as well as conventional CT scans in assessing limb length. The system provides less radiation exposure and allows for better assessment of limb alignment compared to CT scans.
A retrospective study found that freezing nerves before knee replacement surgery significantly improves patient outcomes, with shorter hospital stays and reduced opioid use. The treatment group had fewer knee symptoms and better local pain control, allowing patients to walk and function well enough to go home sooner.
A new literature review suggests that a team-based care approach, combining newer pain management strategies, is key to maximizing patient outcomes after total knee replacement (TKR) procedures. Multimodal protocols, including regional anesthesia and intra-operative pain injections, have been shown to lower patient pain severity rating...
A Finnish study found that arthroscopic knee surgery does not alleviate sensations of knee catching or locking associated with degenerative knees. Physical therapy and sham surgery showed similar effectiveness in reducing symptoms.
A new study supports bariatric surgery in morbidly obese patients with end-stage osteoarthritis prior to total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. The evaluation predicts improved quality-of-life and cost-effectiveness for these patients, making it a viable treatment strategy.
A new study found that adolescent scoliosis patients who received regular monitoring of their brace wear had less spinal progression and were less likely to require surgery. Patients who wore their braces for an average of 13.8 hours per day showed a 59% success rate in preventing curve progression.
A new literature review finds that nearly two-thirds of adolescent patients with back pain have unclear causes after clinical physical examination and imaging. Dr. Suken A. Shah advises maintaining proper posture, good core strength, regular exercise, and avoiding heavy backpacks to prevent or minimize back pain.
Biomedical engineer Prof Helen Lu has received a $1.125M grant to develop a nanofiber-based device for tendon-to-bone integration in rotator cuff repair, aiming to improve healing outcomes and reduce re-tear rates.
Researchers at McMaster University found that using saline water instead of soap and water can lead to lower rates of infection and complications. The study involved 2,400 patients with open fractures and showed that low-pressure saline irrigation was an acceptable alternative to traditional cleaning methods.
A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reveals that 78% of US adults consider distracted walking a serious issue, yet only 29% admit to themselves. Common behaviors include talking on phones, listening to music, and using smartphones while walking.
A study found a strong association between obesity and an increased need for surgery, longer hospital stays, and higher treatment costs in orthopaedic trauma patients. Patients with obesity were more likely to be discharged to a care facility rather than home.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that nearly one-third of knee and hip arthroplasty surgeries had excessive door openings, potentially defeating the safety effects of positive pressure systems. The researchers suggest planning better to prevent unnecessary door openings and exploring reasons behind frequent door opening.
A new study reveals that black patients are at a significantly higher risk of requiring a revision after knee replacement surgery, with risks 38% higher than whites. Socioeconomic factors also play an important role in revision risk.
Most Achilles tendon ruptures can be effectively treated with conservative methods, including rest and physical therapy, before considering surgery. For acute tears in young or active patients, surgical intervention may be necessary to prevent re-rupture and promote quicker recovery.
Researchers studied 83 patients with moderate to severe AC joint dislocations and found that non-surgical treatment resulted in greater mobility than surgical patients. Patients who did not undergo surgery returned to work sooner and experienced fewer complications.
The Department of Defense has awarded a nearly $6 million grant to Houston Methodist to further bone fracture repair research. Researchers aim to develop technologies that can help mend broken bones faster and more efficiently.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that patients with metastatic cancer are at high risk of venous thromboembolism after surgery, and a personalized approach to anticoagulation therapy is needed. The study suggests that the primary type of cancer may play a role in determining the risk for blood clots.
A recent study highlights the risk of catastrophic complications from failure of modular head-neck prostheses in hip-replacement surgery. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery has issued a 'Watch' to raise awareness and encourage further research into this issue.
Researchers develop an antigen-sensitive hydrogel integrated into a small wireless sensor to detect early surgical site infections in orthopedic implants. The test has the potential to guide therapy, improve outcomes and reduce readmissions and costs associated with implant-related infections.
A new wound closure technique has been shown to significantly reduce complication rates in patients with non-idiopathic scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion surgery. The multilayered flap closure method eliminates 'dead space' and creates a better barrier, resulting in a 0% complication rate in patients who received the novel technique.
A Vanderbilt study found that breaking down fibrin is essential for fracture repair, contradicting previous assumptions. The study also suggests that impaired fibrin clearance may be a key factor in conditions like obesity and diabetes impeding fracture healing.
A team of Vanderbilt investigators has discovered that fibrin breakdown is essential for fracture healing, contradicting previous assumptions. The findings have significant implications for efforts to promote fracture repair and may lead to new treatments by reducing or enhancing fibrin levels.
A new study by American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons finds that imaging studies necessary to diagnose traumatic injuries in pregnant women are generally safe. The radiation doses from these studies are well below thresholds considered risky. However, multiple scans and repeated exposure increase the likelihood of a harmful effect.
A study found that nearly two-thirds of meniscal transplants remain viable at 10 years, relieving pain and improving knee function. However, many patients required additional surgery within 15 years.
The 'Watch' from Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery highlights potential risks of all-inside meniscal repair using FAST-FIX devices. Surgeons can minimize loose anchors by using strong holding tissue, particularly in the posterior third of the medial meniscus.
A new study has found an alternative limb-lengthening technique that significantly reduces the amount of time patients spend in the external fixator, from 11 months to seven months. The technique combines an internal titanium rod with the external fixator, resulting in good-to-excellent outcomes for trauma patients.
Youth football players who received comprehensive coach education had fewer injuries, according to a recent study. The study found that coaches played a strong role in preventing injuries, particularly among older players.
Research found that 15-19 year-olds accounted for 56.7% of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction surgeries performed in the US between 2007-2011. This represents a notable increase in incidence, with an average annual growth rate of 4.2%.
Research suggests that athletes who underwent lower extremity surgeries before college may be left with functional deficits, increasing their risk of future injuries. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,100 athletes, found that pre-college surgeries were associated with a higher incidence of intracollegiate surgeries.
Researchers found that 77% of older athletes (average age 73) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair could return to their sport at similar intensity. The surgery effectively reduced pain and improved function, with patients over 70 showing significant improvement.
A new study presents evidence that surgical treatment is more effective than non-surgical therapy for patients with certain types of hamstring injuries. Patients treated surgically showed significant improvements in lower extremity function, as well as a higher likelihood of returning to athletic activities without re-injury.
A new study published by the MOON Knee Group found that patients with stable meniscus tears did not require reoperation after ACL reconstruction, with only 7.7% needing treatment over six years. The research confirmed that smaller, stable tears can be left alone without compromising outcomes.