Articles tagged with Orthopedics
A new study found that post-surgical phone support significantly improved physical activity and function in high-risk knee replacement patients. Telephone emotional support was well-received by all patients, particularly those with poor emotional health or morbid obesity.
A study by researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery found that surgeons who have performed less than 60 ACL reconstructions are roughly four to five times more likely to undergo a subsequent ACL reconstruction. The learning curve for ACL surgery is complex, and training programs may not be adequate to prepare young surgeons.
A new study found that modern low-energy handgun ammunition can inflict significant soft tissue damage, potentially causing infection and compartment syndrome. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of this powerful new ammunition to treat high-risk gunshot injuries properly.
A new study reveals that 77% of trauma patients have deficient or insufficient levels of vitamin D. Researchers found a strong link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of muscle weakness, bone fractures, and poor bone healing.
Research found 26% of patients with distal radius fractures and 11% of control patients were vitamin D insufficient, while 18% and 2% respectively were deficient. Vitamin D supplementation may help prevent future fractures.
Research by American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reveals that elite girls' soccer athletes are at higher risk for delayed or irregular menstruation and stress fractures. A consistent warm-up exercise program can significantly decrease ACL injury risk.
A study of 1,500 patients found that aspirin reduced the incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) by 19.2%, with no complications from aspirin use. Aspirin, combined with stockings and a foot pump, is a safe and effective therapy for preventing DVT and PE in most joint replacement patients.
A 10-year study at a regional trauma center found significant negative association between orthopaedic trauma volume and county unemployment rates of the previous year. The study, presented at the AAOS Annual Meeting, suggests economic trends impact orthopedic trauma volume.
Experts from NYU Langone Medical Center will present their latest research on diseases of the muscle, tendon, bone, and joint. The focus includes reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, platelet-rich fibrin matrix for rotator cuff healing, and effects of partial medial meniscectomy on tibiofemoral position and stability.
A new review article suggests that medications targeting T-cells can significantly benefit patients with psoriatic arthritis, reducing symptoms and improving joint function. Surgery may also be considered for patients with joint deformities, offering insights into outcomes and risks for those who progress to joint destruction.
A study led by Dr. Russell R. Russo identified a new source of necrotizing fasciitis from intramuscular injection of 'bath salts.' The researchers treated a patient who developed rapidly progressing redness, skin sloughing, and drainage after injecting the street drug.
New guidelines aim to reduce waiting times and improve patient outcomes for patients with hip fractures. The guidelines recommend fast-tracking admission, multidisciplinary care, and surgery within 48 hours of hospital admission.
Researchers have discovered that graphite carbon is a key component of the lubricating layer on metal-on-metal hip implants. This finding could lead to improved designs and longer lifespan for these devices, which are often used by younger, more active individuals.
Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that graphitic carbon is a key element in the lubricating layer of metal-on-metal hip implants, reducing friction and wear. This finding offers a target for designing new materials to improve implant performance.
The FDA has established an international consortium of orthopedic registries to develop a unified method for analyzing and reporting multinational registry data. The ICOR aims to identify the best implants for patients worldwide, improving patient safety.
Introducing new knee replacement models can lead to increased risk of early revision surgery, especially for the first 15 patients. A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that hospital staff must consider the consequences of their decisions when choosing implants and instruments.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released a new clinical practice guideline for treating supracondylar humerus fractures in children. The guideline recommends stabilizing the fracture with pins and treating circulation problems, while emphasizing the importance of evaluating each child's individual circumstances. The fu...
Chronic opioid users have longer hospital stays, more post-surgical pain and complications, and are less likely to recover fully after knee replacement surgery. Researchers recommend strategies such as weaning patients off strong opioids prior to surgery to improve patient outcomes.
A multicenter NIH-funded study found that most women with stable lupus can have successful pregnancies, with 80% of patients experiencing favorable outcomes. The study's findings highlight the importance of timing and avoiding pregnancy during periods of increased disease activity.
A new study by Hospital for Special Surgery suggests that mental health is a risk factor for disease flares in patients with vasculitis, a devastating form of the disease characterized by inflammatory destruction of blood vessels. Patients who experience stress are 19% more likely to experience a flare-up.
A study of 313 spine surgery patients found that more than half had inadequate vitamin D levels. Patients with insufficient vitamin D may benefit from taking supplements before and after surgery to aid in recovery.
A study analyzed financial payments made by orthopedic device manufacturers to orthopedic surgeons from 2007 to 2010. The findings show a reduction in total payments and funds distributed after payment disclosure was required, as well as an increase in the proportion of consultants with academic affiliations.
The University of Delaware will lead a consortium to develop new standards of care for warfighters with limb injuries, improving their quality of life. The BADER Consortium aims to advance post-injury treatment and bring evidence-based practices forward rapidly.
Popular herbal supplements like feverfew, ginger, and St. John's Wort can interact with prescription medicines, posing serious side effects when combined during and after surgery. Discontinuing use at least one to two weeks prior to surgery can help avoid adverse events.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends preventive treatments for patients undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery to reduce the risk of venous thromboembolic disease. The guideline suggests using mechanical compression devices and anticoagulants, such as blood thinners, to prevent clots.
Researchers at URMC discover that a medication already approved to build bone mass in patients with osteoporosis can also increase cartilage around joints, potentially treating millions suffering from arthritis. The study suggests that the drug could be repurposed as an alternative to current treatments.
A recent study found that older patient age, congestive heart failure, and preoperative neurological problems are independent risk factors for death and complications after spine surgery. The study analyzed data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.
A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that African American patients are less likely to be admitted to high-volume hospitals for total knee replacement surgery, receiving instead lower-quality care. This racial disparity affects access to high-quality arthroplasty care.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that part-time employment models for surgeons can promote retention and address the looming shortages in surgical specialties. By working fewer hours, surgeons may practice more years, alleviating the predicted surgeon shortage by up to 42.5%.
A new study shows that patients with coronary artery disease are more likely to experience thrombotic and bleeding complications after orthopedic surgery. The study found that increasing age, kidney disease, and female sex were strong predictors of these events.
Strains and sprains account for over a third of lower extremity injuries treated at emergency departments. An 'ankle hotline' could spare valuable ER time and resources by providing alternative care options.
A Wayne State researcher has discovered an antibiotic that can prevent and treat aseptic loosening, a condition where surrounding bones disintegrate after prosthetic joint surgery. The antibiotic, erythromycin, can be administered directly at the site of bone breakdown, reducing side effects associated with long-term oral use.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that carpal tunnel syndrome patients prefer to share decision-making with their physicians. Patients who had undergone previous surgical procedures, had caregivers, or additional private insurance were more likely to assume an active role in the decision-making process.
Lesser toe deformities, such as hammer toes and claw toes, can cause significant pain and limit activities. Improper footwear is a common cause, while genetic and neuromuscular conditions also play a role. Nonsurgical treatments like pads and gel sleeves can be effective, but surgery may be necessary for severe cases.
A new study by Danit Ein-Gar, Baba Shiv, and Zakary L. Tormala found that receiving minor negative information after a series of positive reviews can accentuate the positive impression, especially under low thought conditions.
Researchers identified patients at increased risk after bilateral knee replacement surgery due to congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, age over 75, and male gender. The study suggests that these patients should not be considered high-risk candidates for this elective procedure.
Researchers found that obese patients developed respiratory insufficiency (RI) and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) less frequently, with lower in-hospital mortality rates. Fatty tissue may act as a sink for inflammatory proteins, neutralizing them and reducing the inflammatory process.
Researchers identified patients with high femoral anteversion who experience poor surgical outcomes for snapping psoas tendon treatment. This study suggests that releasing the psoas tendon in these patients may result in delayed return to activities and inferior outcomes.
Researchers found significant improvements in hip flexion (3.8 degrees) and internal rotation (9.3 degrees) after arthroscopic treatment for femoro-acetabular impingement, restoring range of motion across the joint.
Patients who showed motion limitations after surgery were more likely to develop arthritic changes in the knee. Rehabilitation emphasizing full motion was found to have more favorable results on x-rays compared to those who lost motion.
Researchers found that establishing a baseline for each youth athlete is critical for accurate concussion assessment. A study of 1,134 adolescent athletes showed variability in results and significant differences between males and females.
A recent study analyzing over 12,000 knee arthroscopy patients found that a history of cancer significantly increases the risk of developing blood clotting issues after surgery. Researchers identified several risk factors associated with VTEs (venous thromboembolic events), including cancer and prior VTE history.
A study of 256 patients found that younger patients with grafts less than 8mm were more likely to require future revision surgery. The researchers hope to improve ACL reconstruction outcomes for young athletes, particularly those who engage in high-activity sports.
Women show greater improvements in function and reduced pain than men at three and six months post-surgery. After a year, men recover as well as women, indicating that gender-specific knee implants may not be necessary.
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that physical exercise stimulates cell proliferation in intervertebral discs, suggesting a potential preventive effect against back pain and disc degeneration. The research team plans to investigate further with this animal model.
A survey of European and US anaesthesiologists found that only 35% monitor cardiac output during high-risk surgery, leading to postoperative complications. The authors call for increased awareness and implementation of guidelines for cardiac output monitoring.
Bursitis is a common cause of musculoskeletal pain affecting the hips, knees, heels, and elbows. The condition can be managed with simple nonsurgical techniques such as ice packs, compressive dressings, activity modification, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery may be required in cases where symptoms persist or infection is involved.
Researchers found that maintaining vitamin D levels above 33 ng/ml significantly improves outcomes in patients taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis and low bone mineral density. The study supports optimizing vitamin D levels to improve treatment effectiveness.
Researchers developed a tool to measure outcomes of brachial plexus surgery, which is currently inconsistent and difficult to compare. The new tool aims to standardize reporting, helping clinicians advance the science and improve patient care.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs in 20-51% of patients with an orthopaedic injury, hindering recovery and daily activities. Effective treatment includes therapy, medications, and prevention strategies to mitigate symptoms and improve outcomes.
A Loyola University Health System study found that binge drinking can change the body's immune system response to orthopaedic injury, complicating trauma care. This means that measuring chemical markers in the blood may be misleading when alcohol is involved.
Researchers found that modern spinal fusion techniques do not cause significant damage to the spine just below the fused discs, contrary to previous beliefs. Patients who underwent surgery showed good functional scores, balance maintenance, and minimal lower back pain ten years post-operatively.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found a 22% relative increase in women among USMG applicants to general surgery programs, with a corresponding 40% increase in those entering training. This trend aligns with increasing equal gender enrollment of medical students.
ATV-related injuries disproportionately affect children, with lower extremity fractures, partial foot amputations, and head injuries being common. The number of ATV-related deaths among children has increased dramatically over the past decade, highlighting the need for proper adult supervision, helmets, and age-appropriate vehicles.
A new drug that targets a signaling-nuclear protein pathway has been shown to prevent heterotopic ossification, a painful buildup of bone tissue. The study's results offer great hope for the development of effective medications to treat this debilitating disease.
This study evaluated three-dimensional changes in the mandible and glenoid fossa of skeletal Class III patients treated with bone-anchored maxillary protraction. The results showed posterior displacement of the mandible and remodeling of the glenoid fossa, suggesting a favorable control of mandibular growth.
The US healthcare system is facing a significant challenge in caring for the growing number of Baby Boomers experiencing bone fractures. A new guide aims to improve care and quality for patients dealing with fragility fractures, addressing various aspects from hospital admission to rehabilitation.
A recent study surveyed 189 players, 15 coaches, and 31 parents, revealing alarming misconceptions about Tommy John surgery's purpose and impact. Researchers found that nearly a third of athletes believed pitch counts weren't a risk factor for injury, while a quarter thought surgery could improve performance.
A large prospective study found that arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is highly effective at restoring function, with improved ASSE scores and motor grades over time. The study also showed that some tendons can heal fully within five years after initial incomplete healing.
A recent study by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy does not significantly improve healing after a rotator cuff tendon repair. Researchers observed no notable differences in tendon-to-bone healing rates between patients who received PRP and those who did not.