A study of 28 shoulder replacement patients found that their driving skills improved significantly at 12 weeks post-surgery, with a decrease in simulator collisions. Patients who drove less than 1,800 miles per year incurred more collisions, suggesting that long-distance driving may be safe earlier
Researchers found that sutures with stem cells led to quicker and stronger healing of Achilles tendon tears compared to traditional sutures. The study showed improved tendon strength and reduced risk of rerupture in rats, suggesting potential benefits for human patients.
The Kappa Delta Sorority and OREF presented four research awards to scientists making breakthroughs in musculoskeletal health. Winners included researchers studying muscle atrophy and its effects on patients with rotator cuff tears, as well as those investigating anatomic ACL reconstruction and the natural history of rotator cuff disease.
A study analyzing 301,718 revision total knee replacement surgeries found that periprosthetic joint infections were the most common reason for failure, occurring in 25% of patients. Mechanical loosening was also a significant cause of failure, accounting for 18.5% of cases.
A new study reveals that back surgery can increase average annual earnings by $1,925 compared to non-surgical treatments, as well as reduce missed workdays by three per year. The research suggests that surgery is a cost-effective solution for patients with herniated discs, resulting in savings of over $5,000 over a four-year period.
A study found that total joint replacement (TJR) reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, or other 'cardiovascular events' in patients with moderate-to-severe arthritis. This may be due to increased mobility and physical activity levels, which have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.
A study of 43,543 THRs found complication rates similar to younger patients among nonagenarians, with higher mortality rates within 90 days. The authors concluded that THR can be safely performed in this population.
Following Tommy John surgery, MLB pitchers show significant improvement in performance, including reduced walks and hits per inning pitched. 83% of patients successfully return to professional play, extending their careers by an average of 3.9 years.
Researchers found that statins significantly reduced VTE events following total hip and knee replacements, with a 48% lower risk compared to non-statin groups. The study, which included over 400 patients, suggests that statins may have anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to their ability to decrease VTE risk.
Researchers from Cleveland Clinic and six other institutions present findings on surgical reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligaments. They found that using auto-graft tissue resulted in lower failure rates for high school, college, and competitive athletes. The study aimed to improve ACLR outcomes and highlight changes in practice.
Researchers found that younger female patients, particularly those with post-traumatic or rheumatoid arthritis, had the highest pain scores. Surgical factors like general anesthesia and longer tourniquet time during knee replacement also contribute to postoperative pain.
A study found that postoperative 'doctor shopping' is associated with longer narcotic use and more prescriptions among orthopaedic trauma patients. The researchers discovered a strong link between preoperative narcotic use and increased doctor shopping behavior.
A Henry Ford Health study of 168 MLB pitchers before and after Tommy John surgery found diminishing returns in pitching categories such as ERA, WHIP, and IP. Researchers also identified risk factors associated with the injury and debunked the perception that UCL reconstruction improves performance.
A new study using a driving simulator found that patients can return to driving safely four weeks after total hip replacement. Patients under 70 reached improved reaction times earlier than those over 70.
A study of 80 post-menopausal women found that those with distal radius fractures had decreased strength, particularly in chair stand and grip tests, compared to similar patients without fractures. This may indicate an early decrease in physical performance level.
A multidisciplinary team approach led to improved outcomes and quicker patient recoveries after the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings. The report identifies essential lessons learned, including broad collaboration, senior-level commitment, and effective communication.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain affects an estimated 100 million Americans, with low back pain and degenerative joint processes being common causes. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not effective in many chronic pain scenarios, but antidepressants and anticonvulsants can provide remarkable relief.
Researchers analyzed nearly 300,000 patients and found that surgical site infections are relatively rare after ambulatory surgery but the absolute number is substantial. Early access to a clinician can help identify and treat these infections early and reduce overall morbidity.
A multicenter study found a mobile compression device to be as effective as blood thinners in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after lower extremity joint replacement surgery. The device improved blood flow and had no negative side effects, making it an equally safe alternative to blood thinners.
A team of researchers is working to improve the outcome of surgical repairs for large rotator cuff tears in older patients by studying the natural attachment of tendon to bone. They plan to use advanced imaging methods and mechanical testing to understand how the natural tendon-to-bone insertion works and what goes wrong in healing.
A new study by Barrett Sullivan found that over 57% of websites carrying information on vertebroplasty provide 'unacceptable' content. Weighing the pros and cons is crucial for patients seeking treatment.
Researchers developed antibiotic-containing microspheres to prevent implant-associated bone infections. The study found that coated implants prevented infection in 100% of specimens, while uncoated ones showed a 64% infection rate.
Long femoral necks in modular hip designs pose a risk of fracture, as reported in four cases presented in the January 2014 issue of JBJS Case Connector. The 'Watch' issued by the Journal highlights the need for clinicians to discuss this risk with patients and enhance patient safety.
A 10-year observational study of nearly 3,000 participants found that maintaining a 10% weight loss was possible for over 87% of individuals. The researchers identified physical activity, self-weighing, low-fat diets, and avoiding overeating as key predictors of successful weight loss maintenance.
A year after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, patients showed equally low incidence of symptoms and were satisfied with their knee. The study suggests that surgery is not an effective form of treatment for degenerative meniscal tears, and instead recommends exercise and rehabilitation as a more effective approach.
Researchers found that nearly 8% of metal-on-metal hip replacements have no readily available clinical effectiveness evidence. The study highlights the need for improved device regulation to prevent widespread use of untested implants.
A new study provides the first evidence-based recommendations for the use of PRP in orthopaedic care, identifying successful treatments and areas where further research is needed. The authors conclude that PRP can be effective for conditions like arthritis in the ankle and tennis elbow, but more study is required for other applications.
A new study explores the experiences of patients suffering from chronic pain, highlighting themes of body image issues, uncertainty about the future, and feeling lost in the healthcare system. Building a new relationship with the body and redefining normality can aid the process of living with musculoskeletal pain.
Researchers emphasize measuring orthopaedic care value through patient-reported outcomes and cost analysis, enabling real-time medical decision-making. The study outlines key principles for implementing value-based healthcare in musculoskeletal care.
A Vanderbilt University study found nearly half of orthopaedic surgeons sustain injuries during their careers, with inadequate resources available to them. The study also revealed that 38% of respondents reported no institutional resources, leading to increased lost productivity.
A new study highlights the long-term benefits of rotator cuff surgery, showing significant cost savings and improved quality of life for patients. The study estimates that surgeries result in a lifetime societal savings of approximately $3.44 billion annually.
A recent MU study found that 74 percent of orthopaedic trauma surgeons substantially underestimated the prevalence of domestic violence injuries among their patients. Only 23 percent had received any training on recognizing and responding to intimate partner violence. The researchers encourage orthopaedic surgeons to seek education on ...
Despite obesity, patients experience improved shoulder function and reduced pain after two years post-surgery, but overall physical function remains unchanged. The study suggests that total shoulder replacement is an effective procedure for pain relief and functional improvement in patients with shoulder arthritis.
Patients should never drive if taking narcotic pain medication, as it impairs cognitive judgment and reaction time. Additionally, using one arm can significantly limit safe driving abilities due to impaired coordination and control of the vehicle.
A Vanderbilt study found that providing patients with a simple biosketch card about their doctor can improve patient satisfaction scores by 22%. The study showed that patient comfort with care is crucial for recovery, and this intervention is an easy and cost-effective way to enhance the patient experience.
A new study reveals that rising rates of obesity among young adults are contributing to an increase in knee replacement surgeries. Younger patients are more obese and experience the same level of pain and functional disability as older patients, according to researchers at UMass Chan Medical School.
A study found that African-American and Puerto Rican women with low vitamin D levels during pregnancy are at higher risk of preterm birth. Vitamin D deficiency was strongly associated with damage to the placenta, a key factor in preterm births.
A study of 69,000 Medicare patients shows that vertebrae cement injections (augmentation) can improve survival rates by 77.8% at one year and 59.9% at three years compared to conservative management.
John Munz, assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at UTHealth Medical School, has been awarded the Howard Rosen Table Instructor Award. His exceptional teaching skills and devotion to patient care have earned him recognition within the medical community.
Approximately 1.4 million people suffer minor traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) each year, with falls and motor vehicle accidents being common causes. Orthopedic surgeons can play a critical role in diagnosing mTBI, ensuring patients receive proper care and referrals for management.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that ACL reconstruction surgery provides a significant cost savings to society, with an average lifetime benefit of $50,000 per patient. The study estimated lifetime societal savings of approximately $10.1 billion annually.
A recent study found that using DVDs, booklets, and health coaches can help patients arrive at an informed treatment decision within their first visit with an orthopaedic surgeon. The study showed a significant increase in patient confidence in knowing what questions to ask their doctor, leading to better shared medical decision making.
Researchers report two cases of early intraprosthetic dislocation with dual-mobility hip implants, suggesting a potential link to mixed-component designs. The study highlights the need for clinicians to carefully evaluate and monitor patients receiving these implants.
A literature review found that one in four people develop hip arthritis before age 85, contributing to groin pain. Contributing factors include sports-related injuries, prior surgery, and traumatic occupational history. A detailed medical history and examination are crucial for diagnosing the source of groin pain.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released a list of five targeted, evidence-based recommendations to support conversations between patients and physicians about necessary care. The recommendations aim to reduce waste and overuse in the healthcare system by identifying unnecessary tests and procedures in orthopaedics.
A new study highlights the economic benefits of knee replacement surgery, finding that patients can save nearly $40,000 in indirect costs, resulting in lifetime societal savings of $10,000-$30,000. The study estimates that total knee replacement surgeries will exceed 3 million by 2030 due to an aging population.
A study at the University of Eastern Finland found that abnormal bone properties in children with vertebral fractures and after solid organ transplantation can predict fracture risk. Bone histomorphometry revealed changes in bone composition that could explain increased fracture risk.
Dr. Jingwei Xie has been awarded a $293,000 NIH grant to lead a project developing a new biological device that better mimics an uninjured tendon-to-bone attachment, potentially improving healing rates for rotator cuff injuries.
A study of 256 baseball players who underwent ulnar collateral ligament surgery found that 83% were able to return to competition at the same or higher level, with an average additional 3.6 years of playing time
A new knee cartilage repair technique, De Novo NT Natural Tissue Graft, has shown promising results in treating articular cartilage lesions. Patients who underwent the procedure experienced significant improvements in symptom assessment and MRI images at two years of follow-up.
A study of 1,332 high school football players found no association between helmet brand or age and lower concussion risk. However, players with a history of concussions were twice as likely to sustain another one. Researchers recommend further screening to identify those at increased risk.
Researchers found that corticosteroid injections helped NFL players recover 10 days sooner than those without treatment, with a median recovery time of 15 days. The study involved 31 players from two teams and showed no complications from the injections.
Researchers identified dynamic knee rotation and frontal plane angles as key risk factors for lower extremity stress fractures. Movement patterns targeting these aspects could help prevent stress fractures through injury prevention programs.
Researchers studied 296 MLB pitchers and found that those with a deficit in total range of motion had a higher risk of injury. The study's findings could help team physicians and athletic trainers prevent long-term injury absences.
New research suggests that arthroscopic bankart repair surgery is a viable and cost-effective treatment option for young patients with first-time shoulder dislocations. The study found that surgical costs were significantly lower than previously estimated, with a probability of re-dislocation below 7%.
Researchers analyzed data from 78 subjects who underwent ACLR and found that female athletes were over four times more likely to suffer an injury within 24 months than their healthy counterparts. The study also showed a trend for female subjects to be two times more likely to suffer an injury on the opposite knee.
A new study published in Foot & Ankle International found a 28.8% decline in lower extremity amputations over the past decade, with advances in diabetic foot ulcer treatments contributing to this decrease. The number of orthopaedic claims for diabetic foot ulcers rose 143.3% during the same period.
A recent study found that orthopedic oncologists and surgical oncologists conducted only 52% of sarcoma surgeries, while general surgeons, plastic surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons performed the remaining 48%. This disparity may impact patient outcomes due to varying levels of expertise in removing deep-seated tumors.
A study found that knee shape can affect ACL reconstruction decisions after a tear. Knees with more stable shapes, such as deeper tibial plateaus and less concave areas, may not require surgery. This discovery could help clinicians identify patients who can skip ACL reconstruction.
The study found that it took a mean of 5.2 physician visits to obtain the correct diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), highlighting delays in diagnosis due to lack of awareness among primary care physicians and community-based orthopedic surgeons.