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New medication, surgery may offer relief for patients with psoriatic arthritis

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJan 18, 2012

Patients at risk of knee joint complications when new technology is used

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateDec 14, 2011

AAOS issues new clinical practice guideline for treating common elbow fractures in children

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...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateNov 16, 2011

Take care with pain meds

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 11, 2011

Study evaluates industry payments to orthopedic surgeons

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 24, 2011

New guideline outlines recommendations to reduce blood clots after hip and knee replacement

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateSep 30, 2011

Does race dictate quality of care?

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateSep 13, 2011

Wayne State researcher discovers antibiotic useful for localized treatment of bone wear

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.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateAug 9, 2011

Carpal tunnel syndrome patients prefer to share decision-making with their physicians

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateAug 8, 2011

Don't suffer in silence with toe pain

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateAug 1, 2011

Men play post-op catch-up

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateJun 29, 2011

Bursitis a common cause of painful hips, knees, heels and elbows

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJun 7, 2011

Another reason not to binge drink

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.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateApr 15, 2011

Adult-sized ATVs are not safe for kids; statistics startling

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateApr 4, 2011