The aim of this review is to evaluate the current available literature evidencing on peri-articular hip endoscopy (the third compartment). A comprehensive approach has been set on reports dealing with endoscopic surgery for recalcitrant trochanteric bursitis, snapping hip (or coxa-saltans; external and internal), gluteus medius and minimus tears and endoscopy (or arthroscopy) after total hip arthroplasty. This information can be used to trigger further research, innovation and education in extra-articular hip endoscopy

Abstract. Background. Benign osteolytic lesions of bone represent a diverse group of pathological and clinical entities. The aim of this study is to highlight the importance of intraoperative endoscopic assessment of intramedullary osteolytic lesions in view of the rate of complications during the postoperative follow up period. Methods. 69 patients (median age 27 years) with benign osteolytic lesion had been prospectively followed up from December 2017 to December 2018 in a university hospital in Cairo, Egypt and in a level-1 trauma center in United Kingdom. All patients had been treated by curettage with the aid of endoscopy through a standard incision and 2 portals. Histological analysis was confirmed from intraoperative samples analysis. All patients had received bone allografts from different donor sites (iliac crest, fibula, olecranon, etc). None of them received chemo or radiotherapy. Results. Most of lesions were enchondroma (n=29), followed by Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) (n=16), Fibrodysplasia (n=13), Chondromyxoid fibroma (n=3), simple bone cyst (n= 3), non-ossifying fibroma (n= 3), giant cell tumour (n= 1) and chondromyxoid fibroma (n = 1). Site of lesion varied from metacarpals (n = 29), femur (n= 1), lower leg (n= 31), and upper limb (n=18). Complications happened only in 9 cases (pathological fractures (n=2), infection (n= 1), recurrence (n=3, all aneurysmal bone cyst), residual pain (n= 3, all in tibia). None of cases developed malignant transformation. Conclusion. Endoscopy is recommended in management of benign osteolytic bone lesions; as it aids in better visualization of the hidden lesions that are missed even after doing apparently satisfactory blind curettage. From our study the recurrence rate is 2% compared to the known 12–18% recurrence rate in the blind technique from literature

The Authors report the early results of endoscopic curettage with bone grafting to treat aneurysmal bone cysts. Four patients with aneurysmal bone cysts (one located in the femur and three in the humerus) received curettage with homologous bank bone grafting by endoscopy. In one case we used homologous bank bone in chips with osteoconductive properties and in three cases we used homologous bank bone in paste with osteo-inductive properties. The follow-up showed complete improvement in pain, new bone formation and remodelling at 2 years. Even if we do not yet have final results about recurrence, these early data encourage us to continue this study so that a longer follow-up will confirm the benefits of this procedure

This is a study on the results of fifty consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic removal of herniated lumbar disc by interlaminar extra-dural approach. The indication for surgery was unrelenting, single level, unilateral sciatic pain not relieved by conservative treatment, with supportive evidence of disc herniation in MRI. Surgery was carried out in the lateral position. After localizing the disc space by X-ray, two 5 mm portals were made, one for an arthroscope and the other for working instruments. The spinal canal was entered through the inter-laminar route and under direct vision the herniated lumbar disc was removed.

The duration of study is from February 1998 to July 1999 with an average follow-up of 14.58 months. There were 31 herniated, 9 extruded and 10 sequestrated discs. All patients were mobilized the same day and 42 were discharged the next day. There were two patients who suffered partial but permanent nerve root damage, 4 had post-operative headache and one developed transient extra-pyramidal symptoms. Modified McNab criteria were applied to study the results by an independent observer.

40 patients (80%) had a very good outcome (i.e. fully functional with occasional discomfort); 5 patients were considered to have a good outcome (i.e. normal function with some restriction to strenuous activity); 2 patients who had partial nerve root damage were considered as fair results though their final outcome was good. 3 patients suffered recurrent disc herniation and were operated by open surgery. These were classified as failures. We conclude that this technique is a minimally invasive procedure with results comparable to conventional disc surgery. The advantages to the surgeon are the excellent illumination, magnification and visualization. The advantages to the patient are minimal surgical trauma and speedy recovery.

Purpose of the study: The cervicobrachial outlet syndrome is an anatomic and clinical entity related to intermittent or permanent compression of the brachial plexus trunks, and/or the subclavian artery and vein as they pass through six successive spaces in the thoracic cervicobrachial outlet, including the intercostoscalenic space. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of endoscopic exploration of the infra-clavicular portion of the outlet and the options for therapeutic interscalenic release. Material and methods: Cadaver study of 12 shoulders: 3 male, 3 female. dissection of the supra and infra-clavicular region (n=3) to identify zones of potential impingement and determine the structures constituting the outlet;. dissections (n=2) centred on the different zones considered as potential endoscopic portals;. endoscopies (n=2) via a supra-lateral clavicular approach followed by dissection;. endoscopies (n=2) via a supra-lateral clavicular approach followed by dissection with insertion of landmarks then a new endoscopy;. Endoscopies (n=3) via a supra-lateral clavicular approach to achieve intercalenic release followed by control dissection. Results: The medial and lateral clavicular approaches identified two zones of less risk considering the proximity of the neck vessels and the phrenic and suprascapular nerves. A first, it was difficult to localize the brachial plexus endoscopically. This was achieved after dissection and insertion of landmarks. Five endoscopic procedures had to be performed to localize the plexus and starte the interscalenic release. Minute identification of the entry points for the trocars, as a perfect orientation of the instruments was necessary to achieve the procedure. The control dissections did not identify any vessel or nerve injury. Discussion: Few data in the literature examine the question of endoscopic interscalenic release. Unlike Krishnan and Pinzer, we found that endoscopic exploration of the outlet at possible, but difficult, procedure. Use of an arthropump remains to be evaluated because of the distension and impregnation of the tissues. Insufflations with CO2 might be an alternative. Conclusion: To our knowledge, a supra-clavicular approach for endoscopic exploration of the brachial plexus has not been described. Exploration of the outlet via this approach might be a less invasive procedure than conventional surgery. Complementary research is necessary to evaluate the morbidity of the different techniques

Aims: The objectives of this study are to determine the feasibility of the endoscopic þxation of the anterior pelvis. Material and Methods: Twenty adult cadavers were studied. A þve hole plate was introduced and þxed by balloon and C02 dilatation of the space of Retzius. After plating, the cadavers were dissected to analyze plate and screw position, and presence of damage on the surrounding tissues related to the procedure. Results: Plate and screws were seen to be in good position in all cases. No damage to vital structures was identiþed. Case Report: 33 y/o male sustained an open book external rotation AO/OTA type 61-B3.1 pelvic fracture. EFAP was performed successfully. Postoperative x rays showed good reduction and implants position. Discussion and conclusion: Open approaches to the anterior pelvis are not free of complications. Endoscopy allows clear visualization of the space of Retzius and it is a valuable aid for pelvis fracture þxation. Extraperitoneal endoscopy of the anterior pelvis is a safe and commonly performed surgical procedure. This paper shows that plate and screws þxation of the symphysis pubis can also be performed using this minimally invasive approach

Introduction: Current diagnostic labels used to dictate the prescription of treatment have been derived from studies of cadavers and surgery performed upon the unconscious patient. Methods: In 800 patients, feedback during aware state surgery was independently recorded . Pain sources were detected by spinal probing and verified by endoscopy in the extra foraminal, epidural, foraminal and intradiscal zones. Results: The nerve was found variously painfully tethered to the ascending facet joint, the superior foraminal ligament, superior notch osteophytes, shoulder osteophytes and directly tethered to the disc. In addition, the disc pad, posterior longitudinal ligament and tissues on the dorsum of the vertebra were found to be individually sensitive. These sources produced both local and referred pain. In two thirds of patients with back pain, the disc itself was quiescent to both external and internal manipulation. In a third of patients, the inflamed nerve produced atypical peripheral radicular symptoms on direct probing. Discussion: These unrecognised pain sites and the atypical peripheral symptoms they produce may lead to atypical presentations and mal-targeted interventions. Their persistence may account for failures following conventional surgery. Endoscopy offers an intriguing method of localising and understanding the pathology that underlies diagnostic labels such as failed back syndrome, failed back surgery syndrome, instability and lateral recess stenosis. It is suggested that future surgery be based upon the findings of spinal probing with endoscopic verification. Dynamic retrolisthesis and olisthesis aggravates inflammation in these foraminal sites

Introduction and Aims: Use of non-steroidals (NSAIDs) and additional factors such as advanced age, anticoagulants and co-morbid diseases, commonly found in patients with arthritis, increases the risk of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) bleeding. Our aim was to assess the incidence of peri-operative UGI bleeding in patients having hip and knee replacements for arthritis. Method: A single centre, retrospective study was conducted on 100 consecutive hip replacements and 100 consecutive knee replacements performed at Victoria Infirmary, Glasgow, between 1998 and 2000. Results: The mean age was 74 (41–86). Sixty-three percent of our patients were female. Seventeen percent of the patients had a previous history of UGI problems, of which only 50% were on gastro-protective medication. Fifty-four percent of the patients were on NSAIDs and all patients received anticoagulants (78 aspirin, 122 clexane) peri-operatively. Nine patients (4.5%) had UGI bleeding in the post-operative period. Five patients had endoscopies, which revealed bleeding from gastric ulcers (three), duodenal ulcer (one) and barretts oesophagus (one). Four patients, who had one episode of UGI bleeding, did not have endoscopies. All the nine patients with UGI bleeding were patients who had been on NSAIDs and anticoagulants (six clexane, three aspirin). These nine patients were from the group of patients who were not on any gastro-protective medication. Five of these patients requiring a hospital stay of more than two weeks. Conclusion: We believe that the incidence of UGI bleeding in patients undergoing hip and knee replacements is underestimated. We propose gastro protective agents in the peri-operative period for patients on NSAIDs

Removal of femoral bone cement is required for preparation of proper implant bed for reimplantation of a new femoral component in revision total hip arthroplasty. Several devices and procedures have been developed for cement removal, including an extracorporal shock-wave lithotripter and YAG laser, as well as a high-powered drill or burr under the control of conventional fluoroscopic images and an intrafemoral endoscopy. Ultrasonic tools are efficient for removal of bone cement with minimal damage to bone. We use a high-powered burr to remove the deep femoral bone cement under the control of conventional fluoroscopic images, although the problem of this procedure is large exposure of X-ray and two dimensional viewing of burr position which can result in perforation in the third plane. Computer-assisted fluoroscopic navigation system allows the surgeons to provide positional information about surgical instrument to target bones during operations. Two-dimensional image data are obtained using the fluoroscope with a reference frame and stored on a computer workstation. A camera interfaced with the computer then tracks the position of the patient and registered surgical instruments during the procedure. Taking advantage of the real-time guidance of computer-assisted fluoroscopic navigation system, we introduce a valuable technique using computer-assisted fluoroscopic navigation system for performing removal of the cement of the femoral canal in revision cemented total hip arthroplasty

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the preinjury functional scores with the postinjury preoperative score and postoperative outcome scores following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery (ACLR).

Aims

Frailty has been gathering attention as a factor to predict surgical outcomes. However, the association of frailty with postoperative complications remains controversial in spinal metastases surgery. We therefore designed a prospective study to elucidate risk factors for postoperative complications with a focus on frailty.

Objectives: To examine and correlate the presence of neovascularisation, crystalline pyrophosphate deposits and other hisotological features in the disc and discogenic pain established by spinal probing and discography under aware state endoscopic visualisation. Design: Tissue removed from intervertebral discs of 224 patients during surgery were examined by direct and polarised microscopy to identify the presence of calcium pyrophosphate and neovascularisation. Material and Methods: Histology was correlated to the diagnostic provocative findings of spinal probing and discography, discal palpation during aware state endoscopy. Results:Calcium Pyrophosphate: 20/224 (9%) patients demonstrated calcium pyrophosphate in the discs. Fourteen had pain reproduced on probing or discography; 13/20 (65%) of patients had either an annular collection or leak at the index level; 6/20 had an extradiscal cause of pain. Neovascularisation: Thirty-seven out of 224 (16.5%) patients showed neovascularisation in the disc; four discs had crystalline pyrophosphate deposits; 33/37 (90%) had pain on probing and/or discography. Conclusion: The presence of pyrophosphate in a disc without a tear or leak is not associated with annular tenderness. The presence of pyrophosphates in radial tears or leaks is associated with annular tenderness. Annular tears or leaks are not directly correlated to the presence of pyrophosphates. There is a high correlation between pain provocation and neovascularisation

At present, multi-modality medical imaging including x-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, CT, MRI, etc. allows to efficiently diagnose and plan for the majority of surgical interventions. So far, the resulting preoperative set of diagnostic and planning information could not be directly transformed to the real situation in the operating theatre. Additionally, there is a need to improve the accuracy and safety of surgical actions. In the past few years a novel area of research and development – Computer Assisted Orthopaedic Surgery (CAOS) – has been established. Its primary goal is to provide a direct link between preoperative planning and intraoperative surgical action through advanced image-interactive surgical navigation. In addition, the use of computer hard- and software is promoted to enhance patient treatment and care pre- and postoperatively and to provide improved education and training of surgeons as well as advanced case documentation. In this presentation an overview of the state of the art in CAOS research and development is given. Initial focus will be on image-interactive navigation based on preoperatively acquired three-dimensional tomographic image data sets. These techniques require intraoperatively a surgeon-generated transformation between the surgical object and the associated image based virtual object, the so-called registration procedure. Medical robots or free-hand navigation systems are then used to image-interactively perform various surgical actions. In addition, a novel approach to computer assisted orthopaedic surgery will be described, in which intraoperative images, such as ultrasound, endoscopy and fluoroscopy or ‘surgeon-defined anatomy’ complement or replace preoperatively acquired three-dimensional tomographic image data. Various applications for both strategies will be presented in different anatomical areas, such as spine, hip, shoulder, and knee. Surgical interventions ranging from joint reconstruction and replacement to trauma treatment will be covered

Introduction: Recent cadaveric studies have identified neovascularisation and neoneuralisation as probable mechanisms in the causation of discogenic pain. Calcium pyrophosphate deposits have been observed in discs in several studies. Their significance in the causation of discogenic pain is unclear. Direct correlation between the pain site and histological features can be verified by aware state endoscopic visualisation. Aim and Objectives: The study aims to examine and correlate the presence of neovascularisation, crystalline pyrophosphate deposits in the disc, and discogenic pain by spinal probing and discography under endoscopic visualisation. Material and Methods: Tissue removed from intervertebral discs of 224 patients during surgery was examined directly, and polarised microscopy was used to identify the presence of calcium pyrophosphate and neovascularisation. Their presence was correlated to diagnostic provocative findings of spinal probing and discography and intradiscal distortion during aware state endoscopy. Results: Calcium Pyrophosphate: Twenty out of 224 patients (9%) demonstrated calcium pyrophosphate in the discs. Fourteen had pain reproduced on probing or discography. Thirteen out of 20 patients (65%) had either an annular collection or leak at the index level. 6 had an extradiscal cause of pain. One hundred percent of the patients with annular collections or leaks had pain on spinal probing or discography. Sixteen patients with pyrophosphate deposits did not have neovascularisation. Neovascularisation: Thirty seven out of 224 patients (16.5%) showed neovascularisation in the disc. Four discs had crystalline pyrophosphate deposits. Thirty three out of 37 (90%) had pain on probing and/or discography. Out of four patients who had no pain on probing or discography, two had demonstrated tears during previous discographic procedures which were treated with laser annealing. These patients had disc bulges and compressive radiculopathy. Conclusion: The presence of pyrophosphate in the disc without a tear or leak does not directly render them tender to provocation. The presence of pyrophosphate is not correlated to neovascularisation. Annular tears or leaks are not directly correlated to the presence of pyrophosphates. There is a high correlation between pain provocation and neovascularisation

Purpose: Endoscopy provides an attractive alternative to open surgery for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in patients with ankle tendon disease. Early work was published by Van Dijk in 1994. Material and methods: Twenty patients (mean age 34.7 years, range 20–59 years), 16 with posttraumatic lesions, underwent 22 tendinoscopy procedures using a slightly modified technique with a 4.5 optical. The procedures, conducted under general anaesthesia, were performed to explore fibular (n=15), posterior tibial (n=6), and anterior tibial (n=1) tendons. Prospective follow-up was at least six months (6 – 30). Preoperatively, all patients presented more or less localised pain with signs of tendon suffering. Fifteen had undergone prior explorations (ultrasound=4, MRI=7, CT scan=1, MRI+ultrasound=3) which had not revealed any anomaly in seven. Results: Peritendinous adherences were observed intra-operatively in 18 cases with inflammatory reactions requiring resection in 13. A lesion of the tendon itself was found in seven cases-fissure (n=2), superficial dilaceration (n=2), induration (n=2), strangulation (n=1)-which required specific cure with forceps or motorised instrumentation. No explanation of the pain could be identified in one patient. Postoperatively, 17 patient achieved complete pain relief which persisted for at least six months. At last follow-up, one patient had not been reviewed, twelve were totally pain free and five had developed associated symptoms (cracking, swelling). Overall, four patients were very satisfied, eight were satisfied, four were disappointed, and three were dissatisfied (no improvement). There were no signs of worsening and no complications directly related to the method. Conclusion: These results of early experience in France are less satisfactory than those reported by Van Dijk who had 80% good results for 85 tendinoscopic procedures in 70 patients. They do however confirm the usefulness of this technique for the management of patients with tenosynovitis, adherences, and partial ruptures of the ankle tendons which cannot always be identified with classical imaging techniques. Definitive evaluation will require analysis of a larger series of well selected patients

Introduction: The use of bioabsorbable devices in sports medicine surgery in the shoulder and knee continues to evolve as new designs, devices and materials become available. Concerns over potential problems associated with metal artifacts and permanent metal devices continue to motivate the development and use of polymeric based devices. Calaxo interference screws (Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, Andover, MA) are composed of a novel bioabsorbable material blend of poly DL- lactide – co – glycolide 85:15 (65%) and calcium carbonate (35%). These screws have been shown to be osteoconductive when placed in the centre of a 4 stranded tendon graft in an ovine ACL reconstruction [1]. The screws are fully resorbed at 26 weeks with new bone formation in the tunnel. In general, osteoconductive materials are often more effective when placed adjacent to a bony bed. This study investigated whether positioning the Calaxo screw adjacent to the bone tunnel was superior to screw placement within the tendon as in our previous study [1]. Materials and Methods: An intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction model using 2 doubled over tendon autografts whip stitched and inserted into the right hind limb of 8 sheep were used. Animals were culled at 26 or 52 weeks following surgery (n=4 per time point) and data was compared using the same surgical model but with screws placed in the center of the 4 stranded graft (Walsh et al., 2006). The tibias were CT scanned and processed for paraffin histology along the axis of the bone tunnel. Three dimensional models using the DICOM data obtained from the CT where made using MIMICS (Materialise, Belgium). Result & Discussion: Results showed excellent biocompatibility of the screws with no adverse reactions at 26 and 52 weeks as in our previous study [1]. The screws were fully resorbed by 26 weeks with new bone replacing the PLC material. Similarly, the screws were not detectable at 52 weeks with new bone formation where the screw had previously resided. The intra-articular portion of the graft, articular cartilage and synovium was normal at 26 and 52 weeks as previously reported [1]. Tendon – bone healing proximal to the screw progressed in a normal fashion. No calcification of the intraarticular portion of the graft was noted. Computed tomography, 3D models and histology revealed an osteoconductive response to the PLC material with new bone formation as the material degraded in vivo. Placement of the screw adjacent to the tendon graft and thus against the bone tunnel appears to provide superior results compared to screw placement in the middle of the graft sleeve device. This effect may be due to direct contact of the osteoconductive material to the adjacent bone bed. [1] Walsh et al., Arthroscopy 2006, in press

Introduction: Repetitive undertaking of a physical tasks results in an innate memory for that task. Development of this memory is an important component of surgical training and the ease and safety with which these changes are incorporated into a smoothly flowing procedure is represented by the so-called “learning curve”. Changes in equipment and technology may radically alter the paradigm used by surgeons for completing the task of an operation. An example of this is the integration of endoscopy. The hand-eye orientation, field of view, angle of approach, binocularity of vision and skew of the visual field are all altered in lumbar micro-endoscopic discectomy (MED), when compared to open microdiscectomy. Methods: This is a prospective observational study of the initial twenty-five cases of lumbar MED in the hands of a single surgeon. The twenty-five cases of open micro-discectomy immediately predating the current series are used as a cohort for comparison. Results: A definite alteration in the ability of the surgeon to undertake a new method of discectomy occurred. Three of the first seven cases of MED were converted to an open discectomy. None of the ensuing 18 cases was converted. The major learning outcomes to account for the change were familiarity with the radiological and videoscopic anatomy, and recognition of the importance of angles of approach. The average time for surgery in the first ten cases was significantly longer than the second fifteen. The time for surgery in the latter group was not significantly altered from the open cohort group. The facets of surgery responsible for the increased time in the first group were techniques of exposing the nerve root, comfort of the extent of decompression of the nerve root and excision of the disc and comfort with the orientation and cleaning of the camera. The quality of illumination and visualisation of the operative field improved over the study although the significance of this could not be quantified. Subjectively, surgeon “comfort” with the procedure developed relatively early in the “learning curve”. There was no significant difference in clinical outcome and complications between the two groups. Discussion: Minimal access techniques have been widely integrated into other fields of surgical endeavour. Open microdiscectomy is well accepted as a treatment for acute lumbar disc prolapse. The decision whether or not to change a surgeon’s operative technique should be based on the final anticipated clinical benefit of such a change compared to the cost and risk of changing. This study shows that there is a learning curve associated with lumbar MED, but that it can be integrated relatively easily into a surgical armamentarium

INTRODUCTION: Repetitive undertaking of a physical task results in an innate memory for that task. Development of this memory is an important component of surgical training and the ease and safety with which these changes are incorporated into a smoothly flowing procedure is represented by the so-called “learning curve”. Changes in equipment and technology may radically alter the paradigm used by surgeons for completing the task of an operation. An example of this is the integration of endoscopy. The hand-eye orientation, field of view, angle of approach, binocularity of vision and skew of the visual field are all altered in lumbar microendoscopic discectomy (MED), when compared to open microdiscectomy. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study of the initial twenty-five cases of lumbar MED in the hands of a single surgeon. The twenty-five cases of open microdiscectomy immediately predating the current series are used as a cohort for comparison. RESULTS: A definite alteration in the ability of the surgeon to undertake a new method of discectomy occurred. Three of the first seven cases of MED were converted to an open discectomy. None of the ensuing 18 cases was converted. The major learning outcomes to account for the change were familiarity with the radiological and videoscopic anatomy, and recognition of the importance of angles of approach. The average time for surgery in the first ten cases was significantly longer than the second fifteen. The time for surgery in the latter group was not significantly altered from the open cohort group. The facets of surgery responsible for the increased time in the first group were techniques of exposing the nerve root, comfort of the extent of decompression of the nerve root and excision of the disc and comfort with the orientation and cleaning of the camera. The quality of illumination and visualisation of the operative field improved over the study although the significance of this could not be quantified. Subjectively, surgeon “comfort” with the procedure developed relatively early in the “learning curve”. There was no significant difference in clinical outcome and complications between the two groups. DISCUSSION: Minimal access techniques have been widely integrated into other fields of surgical endeavour. Open microdiscectomy is well accepted as a treatment for acute lumbar disc prolapse. The decision whether or not to change a surgeon’s operative technique should be based on the final anticipated clinical benefit of such a change compared to the cost and risk of changing. This study shows that there is a learning curve associated with lumbar MED, but that it can be integrated relatively easily into a surgical armamentarium

Goals: In this study we analysed the patients admitted with orthopaedic problems who had coffee ground vomitus for incidence, risk factors, investigations and the management. This project was to highlight this significant but rather neglected problem and to draw up local guidelines in the prevention. Methods: This is a prospective study conducted for a period of six months from 1st of July 2005 to 31st of Dec 2005. All patients admitted with Orthopaedic problems who had coffee ground vomitus were included in the study after confirmation with haemoccult test. Their case notes were studied to identify the risk factors, preventive measures that could have been taken and their management. Results: There were 34 (2.3%) patients who had coffee ground vomitus, out of 1427 orthopaedic admissions during the study period. There were 14 (41%) men and 20 (59%) women. The mean age was 73.7 yrs in men and 82.2 yrs in women. This problem was more common in 8th decade with 15 patients (45.5%). There were 6 patients each in 7th and 9th decade, 5 patients in 6th decade and only 2 patients in 5th decade. There were 19 (55.5%) trauma admissions with fractures and 15 (45.5%) elective admissions. There were 12 (35.2%) patients with previous gastric problems. There were 20 (59%) patients who were on gastric irritant medications, out of which only 5 (25%) were on gastro protective medications. All 34(100%) patients were on low molecular weight heparin for thromboprophylaxis. There were 2 patients on steroids and 2 patients on warfarin. Coffee ground vomitus occurred preoperatively in 4 (13.4%) and postoperatively in 26 (86.6%). It happened with in the first six hours after surgery in 25 (96.5%) patients. Only in one patient it happened after 3 weeks. All patients were kept nil by mouth, started on fluid resuscitation and intravenous ranitidine followed by oral omeprazole. Patients who were haemodynamically unstable were investigated by endoscopy. 17 (50%) patients had oral gastroduodenoscopy. 2 patients had blood transfusion because of significant drop in haemoglobin and one died before the transfusion was started. There were 5 (14.7%) deaths in our study group. The cause of 2 deaths was directly related to gastrointestinal bleeding and the other three were confirmed to have had concurrent chest infection. Conclusions: Gastro intestinal bleeding is a neglected but not an uncommon problem in orthopaedic patients. Identification of high-risk patients and implementation of preventive measures could avoid this potential life threatening complication. We recommend withdrawal of gastric irritants and co-prescription of gastro protective medications for high-risk orthopaedic patients