Articles tagged with Orthopedics
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery have identified a drilling technique that improves the outcome of ACL surgery by better reproducing the native ligament anatomy. The anteromedial portal drilling technique outperforms the traditional transtibial technique in restoring knee stability and preventing complications.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery have developed a biodegradable scaffold to treat patients with damaged knee cartilage. The study found that the plug demonstrated predictable maturation on imaging studies and showed encouraging properties similar to native articular cartilage.
Two newer surgical options, two-bundle grafts and inlay reconstruction, show promise for treating PCL tears, with one study suggesting improved results over traditional methods. Orthopaedic surgeons debate the best treatment approach, emphasizing patient-specific care and experience with PCL reconstructions.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing biological joints using living tissue that can mimic normal cartilage in a healthy joint. These new joints have shown promising results in dogs and aim to be used for human patients with similar physical characteristics, potentially reducing complications from repeat surgeries.
A large-scale trial found that surgical treatment for degenerative spondylolisthesis provides significantly greater relief from pain compared to non-operative approaches. Patients who underwent surgery reported better function, less pain, and higher satisfaction than those who chose not to have surgery.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that elderly women with hyperkyphosis, or 'dowager's hump,' are at a higher risk for premature death. The study, which analyzed data from over 610 women, suggests that the increased spinal curvature itself may be predictive of adverse health outcomes.
A phase III study found that oral rivaroxaban is more effective than subcutaneous enoxaparin in preventing blood clots (venous thromboembolism/VTE) after knee replacement surgery. The study, published in The Lancet, showed a 31% reduction in relative risk for patients given oral rivaroxaban.
A study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that 96 percent of cementless metal components remained securely fixed in place after 20 years. The implants showed promise, especially for younger patients, but wear-related problems were more common among those under 60.
A new study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found a strong link between genetic predisposition and rotator cuff tears. Family members of patients with rotator cuff tears are at increased risk of similar tendon tears, suggesting that heredity plays a role in the development of the disease.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the treatment of bone injuries, using teriparatide to jumpstart the body's natural healing process. The study shows significant healing and pain control in patients with unhealed bone fractures, offering new hope for those with no effective treatment options.
A recent study highlights the importance of prompt medical intervention in combat injuries, where timely surgical care can significantly improve survival rates. Orthopaedic surgeons are at the forefront of this effort, providing treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote optimal function.
Early diagnosis and treatment of achondroplasia's manifestations can produce better outcomes for patients later in life. This includes addressing stenosis of the foramen magnum and thoracolumbar kyphosis, which can cause developmental delays and spinal deformities.
Mid-level shoulder separations, also known as acromioclavicular joint injuries, are common athletic injuries. Nonsurgical treatment is often favored for type III injuries, but surgical reconstruction may be recommended for certain patients with persistent instability. Both approaches require rehabilitation to restore motion and strength.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center identified a key immunological defense reaction to metal debris in joint replacement devices, causing loosening of components and early failure. This study found that inflammation is triggered by localized immune reactions to tiny particles of debris released from worn-out implants.
A new study found that patients who underwent rotator cuff repair surgery experienced continued pain relief and improved shoulder function, even after a tear recurrence. The study of 15 patients eight years after surgery showed that those with recurrent tears were better off in terms of pain, function, and strength than before.
New research suggests that UCL reconstruction prior to MLB draft selection has no effect on injury risk or professional advancement. The study, conducted from 1999-2003, analyzed data from 30 MLB draft picks with UCL reconstruction compared to a control group.
Researchers found that artificial disc replacement is as effective as, or even better than, spinal fusion surgery in treating damaged discs in the neck. Patients who received an artificial disc lost less motion and recovered faster than those who had a disc removed and the bones of the spine fused.
A Mayo Clinic study found significant effects of obesity on total hip replacements, with a 50% higher complication rate in superobese patients. The study also reported complications with knee implants under extreme weight stress, highlighting the need for weight loss management prior to surgery.
University of Delaware researchers have won the American Physical Therapy Association's award for the best clinical paper in orthopedics published in 2008. Their study focuses on the management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, a common issue affecting nearly 250,000 Americans each year.
A review article recommends physical therapy as a first line of treatment for symptomatic lumbar degenerative disc disease, showing exercise and manual therapy improve function and decrease pain. Physical therapists tailor individualized exercise programs to help patients avoid surgery.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found a strain of laboratory mice with 'superhealing' powers that resist inflammation and arthritis after a knee injury. The study revealed the mechanisms of post-traumatic arthritis and could lead to therapies for this condition, which affects younger people.
A study found that white patients have better survival rates after surgery at teaching hospitals compared to nonteaching hospitals, but this advantage does not apply to black patients. The disparity exists across different hospitals and within the same hospital for both racial groups.
A new surgical procedure called OCRPRC (OsteoChondral Resurfacing in Proximal Row Carpectomy) offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments for wrist arthritis. By reducing inflammation and improving cartilage status, the procedure aims to restore wrist function and alleviate pain.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that a cementless metal cup design remained fixed in place in 95% of hip revision cases after 20 years. The device's bone-in-growth surface allows for long-term stability and durability, reducing the need for repeat surgeries.
According to the HealthGrades Seventh Annual Hospital Quality and Clinical Excellence study, patients treated at top-rated hospitals experience a 27% lower risk of death compared to those at other hospitals. These high-performing institutions also have an eight percent lower risk of complications during their stay.
Researchers studying astronauts on the International Space Station found a greater rate of bone deterioration than previously thought. Astronauts experienced an average loss of 14% hipbone strength, comparable to those with osteoporosis.
Biomedical engineers at UT Health Science Center are developing a 'fracture putty' that could regenerate bones and reduce the need for amputations. The putty, made from nanoporous silicon, aims to mimic bone structure and function, allowing patients to regain full use of their limbs in a shorter period.
The multifidus muscle's unique packing design allows it to serve as a critical stabilizer of the lumbar spine, providing strong support for the lower back. This discovery could lead to improved therapeutic interventions, such as physical therapy targeting specific muscles, to treat spinal disorders and reduce lower back pain.
A Rush University Medical Center study of over 500 hip resurfacing surgeries reveals that complications occur more frequently in women of all ages and men over 55. The most common complication was a fracture of the femoral neck.
A five-year study tracked over 625,000 patients in Southern California to find that a healthy bones program reduced hip fracture rates by an average of 37.2%, with some reductions reaching as high as 50%. Implementing initiatives such as bone density tests and anti-osteoporosis medications led to significant improvements.
A recent US study found that hip resurfacing surgery is not suitable for all patients, particularly those over 55 or female. The procedure's success depends on a patient's age and gender due to differences in bone quality.
Surgeons at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center combined three innovative minimally invasive spine surgery procedures to correct spinal curvature in adults. The procedures involved accessing damaged disc material, replacing it with spacers filled with bone and a protein that promotes fusion.
A new study shows that web-based academic discussions are a cost-effective and effective method of continuing medical education for orthopaedic surgeons. The interactive Orthochina.org wiki project, launched in 1998, allows professionals to share real patient cases and engage in collaborative discussions.
A study found no benefit of arthroscopic surgery for osteoarthritis, but an expert argues it has a place in specific cases. Arthroscopy is valuable for patients with co-existing knee injuries, such as meniscal tears or loose cartilage.
A landmark study conducted at The University of Western Ontario found that arthroscopic surgery provides no additional therapeutic value for patients with moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. Physical therapy and medication proved equally effective in reducing joint pain and improving function.
A study found that 83% of young athletes who underwent 'Tommy John' elbow reconstruction surgery were able to return to the same or better level of play. However, the increasing trend of young athletes requiring the surgery is alarming, highlighting the need for prevention and rest to avoid long-term arm injuries.
A study found that blowing cool, dry air under football shoulder pads reduces core body temperature by up to 1 degree Fahrenheit and lowers heart rate significantly. This technology could help prevent heat-related illnesses in football players.
A recent study found that cadaver replacement ligaments fail nearly 25 percent of the time in young athletes undergoing ACL reconstruction. The high failure rate is attributed to factors such as graft type and patient activity level, highlighting the need for better outcomes measures and surgical techniques.
Research from Hospital for Special Surgery found that individuals born with a birthweight over 10 pounds are twice as likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis as those with average birthweight. A study of 87,077 women identified a significant association between high birthweight and rheumatoid arthritis.
A study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that same-day pregnancy testing reduces the risk of miscarriage during surgery, allowing patients to weigh the risks and benefits. The protocol also eliminates financial losses due to cancelled surgeries, making it a cost-effective measure for hospitals.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, along with medical societies, warns that children should be at least 12 years old to operate lawn mowers and wear protective gear. Serious injuries from lawn mower accidents can lead to devastating consequences, including reconstructive surgeries.
A pivotal Phase III clinical trial demonstrated that rivaroxaban was superior in preventing venous blood clots in patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. Rivaroxaban provided a statistically significant 31% relative risk reduction in total venous thromboembolism events compared to enoxaparin.
A new review of 28,000 patients undergoing joint replacement surgery found that potent anticoagulants may actually lead to more deaths. The authors argue that these drugs have significant side effects and do not prevent pulmonary embolism effectively.
A study found that unconscious biases among doctors may lead to unequal treatment for patients with knee pain. Physicians were twice as likely to recommend total knee replacement surgery for male patients compared to female patients.
Research reveals that professional baseball players have a disappointing comeback rate to their pre-injury level after shoulder or elbow surgery. Only 20 of 44 players returned to the same or higher playing level, highlighting the high physical demands of throwing at this elite level.
A study released by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that arthroscopic surgery is successful in young, athletic patients with a high failure rate of conservative methods. The study evaluated 39 patients over an average of 11.7 years and found excellent shoulder function and activity level maintenance.
A new study recommends treating young athletes with suspected neck injuries in the same way as adults, with both helmet and shoulder pads left on during initial treatment. The researchers found that removing only the helmet was not a safer alternative for children due to their larger head-to-torso proportion.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients who underwent surgery for spinal stenosis showed significant improvement compared to those treated nonsurgically. After two years, 63% of surgical patients experienced a major improvement, while 29% of non-surgical patients reported similar results.
A new British hospital reduced its infection rate from 1% to 0.16% and length of stay by an average of five days, thanks to collaboration with Hospital for Special Surgery.
Researchers at Rhode Island Hospital found that routine screening for carbon monoxide poisoning can detect life-threatening cases in emergency room patients. The study screened over 14,000 patients and identified 11 unexpected cases, highlighting the importance of universal screening to prevent further exposure.
As patients gain knowledge, they increasingly demand accurate information and higher expectations for their care. Doctors must balance scientific evidence with patient needs, while maintaining accountability for patient safety and care.
The annual HealthGrades Hospital Quality and Clinical Excellence study identifies top hospitals nationwide with a 27% lower risk of inpatient mortality. Distinguished Hospitals for Clinical Excellence have consistently delivered high-quality care across various specialties, reducing complications by an average of five percent.
A new study by Rhode Island Hospital researchers reveals that the majority of psychiatry outpatients have more than one disorder when seeking treatment. The study found that patients with bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder had the highest number of diagnoses.
A protein found in human hair, keratin, has been shown to speed up nerve regeneration and improve nerve function in animal studies. The study used keratin-filled gels to repair nerve gaps and showed promising results compared to current treatment options.
A $1.5 million grant renewal will support the first-of-its-kind study examining driving abilities in cognitively impaired elders. The study aims to understand the validity of road tests and develop computerized measures as a screening tool.
A retrospective case note review of 1000 patients found that 8.7% experienced at least one adverse event, with many preventable, and led to extended hospital stays or permanent disability
Researchers found that drug-eluting stents were not associated with excess risk of death or heart attack compared to bare-metal stents, with a cumulative mortality rate of 7.6% vs 8.7%. The study also showed reduced target vessel revascularization rates and enhanced durability of initial angioplasty with drug-eluting stents.
The study found that children who received continuous peripheral nerve blockade (CPNB) for pain management after orthopaedic surgery had better pain control and a shorter hospital stay. The catheter system offers continuous relief for up to 100 hours, potentially cheaper than alternative treatments and long hospital stays.
A team of researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered stem cells in the intervertebral discs of humans and animals, suggesting a potential new approach to treating degenerative disc disease. The discovery could lead to the use of adult stem cells to repair damaged discs and alleviate lower back and neck pain.
A new study found that 18% of bariatric surgery candidates were not psychologically cleared for surgery, citing frequent overeating as a coping mechanism for stress and uncontrolled psychiatric disorders. Researchers emphasize the importance of pre-operative screening to determine suitable surgical candidates.