Articles tagged with Orthopedics
A new study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that approximately 25% of ACL tears from recreational ski injuries can heal on their own. Researchers developed a six-to-12-week test to identify patients with low-grade ACL injuries who are likely to recover without surgery.
The number of ACL injuries in young athletes is rising due to increased training and reduced free play. Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons recommend optimal strategies for treating ACL injuries based on the specifics of the injury and the child's skeletal maturity, including non-surgical management and surgical reconstruction.
A study by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital found that spine-related injuries from ATVs are more common in older children and females, with a significant increase in non-contiguous spinal fractures. The researchers emphasize the need for parents to recognize ATV safety risks and take preventive measures.
A new study by UCSF neurosurgeon Christopher Ames and orthopedic surgeon Vedat Deviren found that complex spinal surgeries with two attending physicians were significantly shorter, averaging five hours instead of eight, and resulted in less blood loss, fewer major complications, and shorter hospital stays.
Research highlights the unique anatomical differences in the female knee that contribute to higher injury rates. Preseason and ongoing neuromuscular training programs can significantly decrease ACL injury risk among girls and women.
Patients with severe back pain who quit smoking reported less pain than those who continued to smoke, according to a recent study. The study found that quitting smoking led to significant improvements in pain levels and disability indexes for nonsmokers.
Athletes are vulnerable to extreme heat or cold, which can cause hypothermia, frostbite, heat edema, heat syncope, and even life-threatening conditions. Team physicians play a crucial role in educating coaches and athletes on the risks of exposure and how to prevent these injuries.
Researchers developed reverse dynamization, which accelerates healing of large segmental bone defects by varying stiffness levels. This approach showed promising results in rat models, with improved bone mineral content and mechanical strength compared to traditional methods.
New research suggests that statins can decrease inflammatory and thrombotic proteins in individuals with antiphospholipid antibodies, reducing the risk of blood clots and other complications. A prospective study found that fluvastatin significantly decreased protein levels in patients with APS, offering a potential new treatment option.
Using regional anesthesia reduces need for blood transfusions and major complications in bilateral knee replacements, according to a new study. Patients receiving neuraxial anesthesia had lower rates of blood transfusions compared to general anesthesia.
Obese patients are at a greater risk of post-surgical infections and require more follow-up surgeries following total knee replacement. The study advises well-informed obese patients to lose weight before surgery to lessen osteoarthritis symptoms and improve outcomes.
Research finds that academic websites provide the most accurate pediatric orthopedic information, while commercial sites yield the least reliable results. The study also highlights concerns about duplicate content and misinterpretation of information.
A recent study found that only 23.2% of general orthopedic practices agreed to schedule an appointment for a pediatric fracture patient with Medicaid, while 82% accepted private PPO insurance. This decline in access to care is attributed to low Medicaid reimbursement rates.
A literature review published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that physical therapy begun shortly after ACL surgery can bring about very good outcomes for patients. However, bracing did not seem to improve results. Strength, range-of-motion, and functionality exercises are recommended as a key part of rehabilitation.
Older patients with shoulder dislocations are more likely to experience rotator cuff tears due to weakened tissues, but less likely to recur compared to younger patients. Prompt evaluation and management by a specialist or orthopedic surgeon is crucial for optimal outcomes.
A new study reveals that younger and healthier patients undergoing bilateral total knee replacements are actually becoming sicker, with rising complication rates attributed to obesity. The study found a 3% increase in pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and nonmyocardial infarction cardiac complications over time.
A recent study found that nearly 20 percent of people who underwent low back fusion surgery developed post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. The strongest factor in determining whether a patient suffered PTSD symptoms was a pre-surgery psychiatric disturbance, but some patients without such diagnoses also experienced symptoms.
Researchers at Penn State developed a method to create a rough surface on bone grafts similar to untreated bone, promoting healing and increasing the likelihood of successful implantation. The new technique uses physical vapor deposition to coat the graft with hydroxyapatite, optimizing its osteogenic properties.
A study of spinal injury data found that explosions accounted for 56% of spine injuries, followed by motor vehicle collisions and gunshots. The average age of injured personnel was 26.5 years, and 90% were enlisted personnel.
A review of twelve studies on joint replacement surgery found no conclusive evidence for weight loss after the procedure. In fact, some patients even gained weight due to improved mobility and reduced pain.
A recent study suggests that some blood clots identified by sensitive testing methods may not require treatment, potentially reducing risks of bleeding complications. However, developing guidelines to accurately identify patients who can benefit from anticoagulant therapy is crucial.
UT Southwestern Medical Center has been named the official healthcare team of the Dallas Stars, marking a significant expansion of their longstanding relationship with the club. The team will oversee the health needs of players, including injury evaluation and treatment, and promote healthy messages through initiatives such as "Hockey ...
Recent studies have found that poorly-performing hand implants, such as the Moje and Elektra thumb CMC joint implants, should be withdrawn due to poor outcomes. The Journal of Hand Surgery recommends caution when using these implants in future surgeries.
A recent JAAOS study highlights the success of nerve transfer surgery, particularly when patients are referred early. Nerve transfer surgeries can restore function to severely damaged nerves, and the study aims to raise awareness among healthcare providers about this treatment option.
Two studies published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that high blood sugar and obesity significantly increase the risk of surgical site infections after orthopaedic trauma and total joint replacement. Nearly one-third of hospital admissions without diabetes have hyperglycemia, which is associated with longer stays, ICU ...
Researchers found that pre-injury levels of four biomarkers were associated with an increased likelihood of ACL injury, with one biomarker linked to a 19-fold risk increase.
Patients undergoing multiple ACL surgeries show basic functional improvement, but rarely regain full pre-operative activity levels. Chondral injuries and high BMI are associated with worse outcomes.
A new study confirms platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy as a safe option for treating cartilage tears in athletes, with patients experiencing significant improvement in pain and basic function. The research involved 180 patients who received either PRP or viscosupplementation treatment, with all patients showing no complications.
A new study finds that immobilizing patients for longer periods after rotator cuff surgery may improve healing rates. The research used a rat model and found that immobilization improved tendon healing, reducing scar tissue and inflammation.
Researchers found that 81% of elite athletes returned to play at a similar level after undergoing an arthroscopic reconstruction technique using an autograft, with improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction reported. The technique was effective in treating labral tears and associated hip instability issues.
Researchers have found that double bundle ACL reconstruction does not significantly reduce the risk of osteoarthritis progression in patients. Despite this, patients over 40 at the time of surgery are more likely to experience OA change over time.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery demonstrate the superiority of the All-Inside, All-Epiphyseal ACL Reconstruction (AE) technique in children. The AE procedure provides great knee stability and effectively controls joint stress without risking injury to growing bones.
A recent study by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that Femoral Acetabular Impingement (FAI) increases stress across the groin in athletes. This increased stress leads to a higher risk of sports hernia, a common cause of groin pain in athletes.
A recent study by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that concussion rates among college football players have doubled in three programs over two years. The increase is attributed to improved reporting of concussions under new NCAA regulations.
A new study suggests that nonsurgical treatment for common shoulder injuries like SLAP tears may be more effective than surgery in increasing the chances of return-to-play in baseball players. The researchers found that position players were more likely to return to competition at a higher rate than pitchers, with 73% vs 40% respectively.
A new study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery shows that children with hip and thigh fractures can heal just as well in single-leg casts, providing greater comfort and mobility. Parents reported taking fewer days off work to care for their children, with an average of eight fewer missed days.
The June issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons highlights the negative impact of smoking on bone and joint health. Smokers face increased risks of postoperative complications and bone density loss, but preoperative counseling programs can mitigate these effects. The journal also discusses treatment option...
A study published in JAMA found that certain biomarker levels, specifically troponin T, measured after noncardiac surgery are associated with an increased risk of death within 30 days. The researchers identified peak troponin T values as the strongest predictors of 30-day mortality.
A study of half a million patients found that 3% require critical care services after hip and knee replacements. Hospitals should prepare for the growing number of orthopedic patients needing critical care, with risk factors including age, comorbidities, and anesthesia type.
New research from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that patients with a past history of skin infection are three times more likely to develop painful and costly surgical site infections during operations. Despite following proper procedures to prevent SSIs, some patients appear to be more susceptible to contracting an infection due to un...
A study of 27 orthopedic surgery residents found that they were functioning at less than 80% mental effectiveness due to fatigue during 48% of their awake time. Residents who worked night shifts slept an average of 5.1 hours daily, highlighting the prevalence and variability of resident fatigue.
A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that hand and wrist injuries account for a significant number of annual emergency department visits in the US. The study estimated that the total cost of these injuries is substantial, with over $2 billion spent on healthcare costs and lost productivity each year.
Patients who engage in high-impact sports like football and skiing experience better function and quality-of-life scores than those with lower activity levels. However, this comes at the cost of reduced durability of hip implants, with a 15-year follow-up showing an 80% implant survivorship rate compared to 94% for low-activity patients.
A Johns Hopkins study reveals wide variation in blood transfusion use during surgery, with frequent unnecessary transfusions. Researchers suggest that patients only need a transfusion if their hemoglobin levels fall below seven or eight grams per deciliter.
A new study reveals that outpatient surgery patients are at risk for blood clots due to multiple factors such as age, surgery length, and type of procedure. The study suggests a need for better screening and prevention strategies in the growing outpatient surgery population.
Researchers investigated non-emergent musculoskeletal injuries in soldiers returning from combat, finding that nearly 19% required orthopaedic consultations. Another study estimated the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism after elective knee arthroscopy, revealing a relatively low risk for complications.
A new study by UCSF doctors suggests that publicly available overall readmission rates may overestimate unplanned readmissions by up to 25 percent. The team found that 'all cause' readmission rates do not distinguish between planned and unplanned surgeries, potentially leading to misinformation about hospital quality.
A new study from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons analyzes current security measures on patients who have had a total hip replacement. The authors conclude that full body scanners can be a viable option for some travelers, but may cause delays and inconveniences.
A Canadian Journal of Surgery study reveals that only 13 out of 14,000 cancer patients with bone metastases receive orthopedic care annually. This under-referral may contribute to poor outcomes and high mortality rates, emphasizing the need for timely surgical consultations.
A structured exercise regimen reduced physical therapy visits by 40% in workers' compensation patients after arthroscopic meniscectomy. The study supports the implementation of independent exercise protocols to reduce therapy costs without compromising patient outcomes.
Researchers found that thromboembolic events following ankle fracture surgery are uncommon, with most patients experiencing no complications. The study suggests that surgical treatment for ankle fractures does not significantly increase the risk of blood clots or pulmonary embolism.
The Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial (SPORT) found surgical treatment significantly favored outcomes for IDH, DS, and LSS, while vitamin D deficiency is critical to musculoskeletal health. A new study urges orthopaedic surgeons to proactively diagnose and treat vitamin D deficiency, which can improve treatment results for various ...
Cartilage transplant tissue can now be stored for up to 63 days, compared to 28 days previously, using a new method developed by researchers at the University of Missouri. This increase in storage time is expected to greatly improve the success rate of joint grafting procedures.
A Seminar published in The Lancet calls for improved long-term monitoring of knee replacement implant outcomes using national registries. This will provide patients and surgeons with high-quality evidence to assess different implants and techniques, ultimately enhancing clinical decision-making.
A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research finds that socioeconomically disadvantaged patients actually sue physicians less frequently than other patient groups. This disparity is attributed to unconscious biases and limitations in accessing legal resources, which can affect the quality of medical care and the doct...
Researchers at UCSF Orthopaedic Trauma Institute have found a promising method to regenerate bone using cartilage grafts, which can integrate with the host bone and vascularize it. This approach could offer an alternative to traditional bone grafting techniques, which can result in poor integration and osteonecrosis.
A new orthopaedic smart device provides real-time diagnostic data to enable precise post-surgical diagnosis and follow-up. The device, made possible by tiny wireless sensors, can monitor load, strain, motion, temperature, and pressure in orthopaedic implants.
A team of researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center has developed a vaccine that can prevent MRSA infection of orthopaedic implants. The antibody targets a component of the cell wall, preventing normal bacterial cell division and formation of sequestrum, a hallmark of osteomyelitis.
Researchers found that abduction strained the ACL more than anterior translation and internal rotation increased load equally with anterior translation. The combination of all three factors resulted in an additive effect, increasing average ACL strain significantly.
Epidural steroid injections showed promise as a treatment option for athletes suffering from lumbar disc herniations. The 89% success rate allows patients to participate in physical therapy sooner and reduces time missed from play. However, certain injuries still require surgery and long-term recovery.