Hip fractures are a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in the elderly. Malnutrition is a major element of this but no consensus exists as to the detection or management of this condition. Reported incidence in elderly hip fracture patients varies widely between 9.0% and 88.6%. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status of 415 patients with operatively managed hip fractures and determine the prognostic relevance of admission serum albumin and total lymphocyte count (TLC) assays. Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) was defined as serum albumin < 3.5g/dl and a TLC < 1,500 cells/mm3. Delay to operation, duration of in-patient stay, re-admission (< 3 months) and in-patient, 3- and 12-month mortality were assessed as outcome variables. Survival data was available for 377 patients at 12 months. Of 377 patients, 53% (n=200) had both a serum albumin and TLC levels taken at admission, while 47% (n=177) had not. The incidence of PEM was 51%. Inhospital mortality for PEM patients was 9.8%, compared with 0% for patients with normal values of both laboratory parameters. Older patients were more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.017) and TLC (p=0.023). Nursing home patients were also more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.033). Multivariate analysis revealed a significant difference in 12-month mortality, with patients who had both a low albumin and a low TLC 4.6 times (95% CI: 1.0–21.3) more likely to die within 12 months postoperatively than patients who had normal values of both laboratory parameters. This was significant after adjusting for age, gender and domicile (p=0.049). Serum albumin and TLC in combination are accurate predictors of 12-month mortality in hip fracture patients. These results highlight the relevance of assessing the nutritional status of patients with hip fractures at the time of admission and emphasises the relationship between nutrition and outcome

Malnutrition is a potentially modifiable risk factor that may contribute to complications following geriatric hip fracture surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between preoperative hypoalbuminemia, a marker for malnutrition, and complications during the thirty days following surgery for geriatric hip fracture. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was used to conduct a retrospective cohort study of geriatric patients (>65 years) undergoing surgery for hip fracture. Patients without preoperative serum albumin concentration were excluded. Outcomes were compared between patients with and without hypoalbuminemia (defined as serum albumin concentration <3.5g/dL). All comparisons were adjusted for baseline differences between populations. 17,651 Patients were identified. Of these, 8,272 (46.9%) underwent hemiarthroplasty, 759 (4.3%) total joint arthroplasty, 324 (1.9%) percutaneous fixation, 2,445 (13.9%) plate/screw fixation, and 5,833 (33.1%) intramedullary fixation. The prevalence of hypoalbuminemia was 45.9% (Figure 1). The risk for death was strongly associated with serum albumin concentration, with a linear increase in risk observed as albumin fell below 3.5 g/dL (p<0.001; Figure 2). Following adjustment for all demographic, comorbidity, and procedural characteristics, patients with hypoalbuminemia had higher rates of death (9.94% versus 5.53%, adjusted relative risk [RR]=1.54, p<0.001), pneumonia (5.30% versus 3.77%, adjusted RR=1.20, p=0.012), sepsis (1.19% versus 0.53%, adjusted RR=1.90, p<0.001), and hospital readmission (10.91% versus 9.03%, adjusted RR=1.11, p<0.036; Table 1). The present study suggests that hypoalbuminemia is a powerful independent risk factor for death following surgery for geriatric hip fracture. This association persists over-and-above any associations of death with age, sex, body mass index, and comorbidities. Based on these data, we propose that the nutritional status of hip fracture patients should receive greater attention, and that randomized trials testing for efficacy of aggressive postoperative nutritional interventions may be warranted. For any figures or tables, please contact the authors directly by clicking on ‘Info & Metrics’ above to access author contact details

Background: Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is an accepted predictor of poor outcome in hip fracture patients. There is no universally accepted definition of PEM. Admission screening for PEM is not routinely performed for hip fracture patients. The reported incidence in elderly hip fracture patients varies widely between 9.0% and 88.6%. Aims: To determine the prognostic relevance of admission serum albumin and total lymphocyte count (TLC), as clinical markers of PEM and predictors of outcome for hip fracture patients. Methods: Retrospective review of 415 patients with operatively managed hip fracture. Protein-energy malnutrition was defined as albumin < 3.5g/dl and TLC < 1,500cells/mm3. Delay to operation, duration of in-patient stay, readmission (< 3 months) and in-patient, 3- and 12-month mortality were assessed as outcome variables. Results: Survival data was available for 377 patients at 12 months. Of 377 patients, 53% (n=200) had both a serum albumin and TLC levels taken at admission (study), while 47% (n=177) had not (control). Incidence of PEM was 51%. Older patients were more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.03) and TLC (p=0.012). Nursing home patients were also more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.049). In-hospital mortality for PEM patients was 9.8%, compared with 0% for patients with normal values of both laboratory parameters. Patients with PEM had a higher 12-month mortality compared to patients who had normal values of both laboratory parameters (Odds Ratio=4.52; p=0.049). Conclusion: Serum albumin and TLC in combination are accurate predictors of 12-month mortality in hip fracture patients. These results underscore the clinical relevance of assessing the nutritional status of patients with hip fractures at the time of admission and emphasises the relationship between nutrition and outcome in these patients

Miniscrew implants (MSIs) are widely used to provide absolute anchorage for the orthodontic treatment. However, the application of MSIs is limited by the relatively high failure rate (22.86%). In this study, we wished to investigate the effects of amorphous and crystalline biomimetic calcium phosphate coating on the surfaces of MSIs with or without the incorporated BSA for the osteointegration process with an aim to facilitate the early loading of MSIs. Amorphous and crystalline coatings were prepared on titanium mini-pin implants. Characterizations of coatings were examined by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Confocal laser-scanning dual-channel-fluorescence microscopy (CLSM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The loading and release kinetics of bovine serum albumin (BSA) were evaluated by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Activity of alkaline phosphate (ALP) was measured by using the primary osteoblasts. In vivo, a model of metaphyseal tibial implantation in rats was used (n=6 rats per group). We had 6 different groups: no coating no BSA, no coating but with surface adsorption of BSA and incorporation of BSA in the biomimetic coating in the amorphous and crystalline coatings. Time points were 3 days, 1, 2 and 4 weeks. Histological and histomorphometric analysis were performed and the bone to implant contact (BIC) of each group was compared. In vitro, the incorporation of BSA changed the crystalline coating from sharp plates into curly plates, and the crystalline coating showed slow-release profile. The incorporation of BSA in crystalline coating significantly decreased the activity of ALP in vitro. In vivo study, the earliest significant increase of BIC appeared in crystalline coating group at one week. The crystalline coating can serve as a carrier and slow release system for the bioactive agent and accelerate osteoconductivity at early stage in vivo. The presence of BSA is not favorable for the early establishment of osteointegration

Background: Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is an accepted predictor of poor outcome in hip fracture patients. There is no universally accepted definition of PEM. Admission screening for PEM is not routinely performed for hip fracture patients. The reported incidence in elderly hip fracture patients varies widely between 9.0% and 88.6%. Aims: To determine the prognostic relevance of admission serum albumin and total lymphocyte count (TLC), as clinical markers of PEM and predictors of outcome for hip fracture patients. Methods: Retrospective review of 415 patients with operatively managed hip fracture. Protein-energy malnutrition was defined as albumin < 3.5g/dl and TLC < 1,500 cells/ mm3. Delay to operation, duration of in-patient stay, readmission (< 3 months) and in-patient, 3- and 12-month mortality were assessed as outcome variables. Results: Survival data was available for 377 patients at 12 months. Of 377 patients, 53% (n=200) had both a serum albumin and TLC levels taken at admission (study), while 47% (n=177) had not (control). Incidence of PEM was 51%. Older patients were more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.03) and TLC (p=0.012). Nursing home patients were also more likely to have lower albumin (p=0.049). In-hospital mortality for PEM patients was 9.8%, compared with 0% for patients with normal values of both laboratory parameters. Patients with PEM had a higher 12-month mortality compared to patients who had normal values of both laboratory parameters (Odds Ratio=4.52; p=0.049). Conclusion: Serum albumin and TLC in combination are accurate predictors of 12-month mortality in hip fracture patients. These results underscore the clinical relevance of assessing the nutritional status of patients with hip fractures at the time of admission and emphasises the relationship between nutrition and outcome in these patients

Aims. This study aimed to compare the performance of survival prediction models for bone metastases of the extremities (BM-E) with pathological fractures in an Asian cohort, and investigate patient characteristics associated with survival. Methods. This retrospective cohort study included 469 patients, who underwent surgery for BM-E between January 2009 and March 2022 at a tertiary hospital in South Korea. Postoperative survival was calculated using the PATHFx3.0, SPRING13, OPTIModel, SORG, and IOR models. Model performance was assessed with area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, Brier score, and decision curve analysis. Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate the factors contributing to survival. Results. The SORG model demonstrated the highest discriminatory accuracy with AUC (0.80 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.76 to 0.85)) at 12 months. In calibration analysis, the PATHfx3.0 and OPTIModel models underestimated survival, while the SPRING13 and IOR models overestimated survival. The SORG model exhibited excellent calibration with intercepts of 0.10 (95% CI -0.13 to 0.33) at 12 months. The SORG model also had lower Brier scores than the null score at three and 12 months, indicating good overall performance. Decision curve analysis showed that all five survival prediction models provided greater net benefit than the default strategy of operating on either all or no patients. Rapid growth cancer and low serum albumin levels were associated with three-, six-, and 12-month survival. Conclusion. State-of-art survival prediction models for BM-E (PATHFx3.0, SPRING13, OPTIModel, SORG, and IOR models) are useful clinical tools for orthopaedic surgeons in the decision-making process for the treatment in Asian patients, with SORG models offering the best predictive performance. Rapid growth cancer and serum albumin level are independent, statistically significant factors contributing to survival following surgery of BM-E. Further refinement of survival prediction models will bring about informed and patient-specific treatment of BM-E. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(2):203–211

Aims. Hip fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and malnutrition is a crucial determinant of these outcomes. This meta-analysis aims to determine whether oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) improves postoperative outcomes in older patients with a hip fracture. Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted in August 2022. ONS was defined as high protein-based diet strategies containing (or not containing) carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Randomized trials documenting ONS in older patients with hip fracture (aged ≥ 50 years) were included. Two reviewers evaluated study eligibility, conducted data extraction, and assessed study quality. Results. There were 812 studies identified, of which 18 studies involving 1,522 patients met the inclusion criteria. The overall meta-analysis demonstrated that ONS was associated with significantly elevated albumin levels (weighted mean difference (WMD) 1.24 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95 to 1.53)), as well as a significant risk reduction in infective complications (odds ratio (OR) 0.54 (95% CI 0.39 to 0.76)), pressure ulcers (OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.33 to 0.88)), and total complications (OR 0.57 (95% CI 0.42 to 0.79)). Length of hospital stay (LOS) was also significantly reduced (WMD -2.36 (95% CI -4.14 to -0.58)), particularly in rehabilitation LOS (WMD -4.17 (95% CI -7.08 to -1.26)). There was a tendency towards a lower mortality risk (OR 0.93 (95% CI 0.62 to 1.4)) and readmission (OR 0.52 (95% CI 0.16 to 1.73)), although statistical significance was not achieved (p = 0.741 and p = 0.285, respectively). The overall compliance with ONS ranged from 64.7% to 100%, but no factors influencing compliance were identified. Conclusion. This meta-analysis is the first to quantitatively demonstrate that ONS could nearly halve the risk of infective complications, pressure ulcers, total complications, as well as improve serum albumin and reduce LOS. ONS should be a regular and integrated part of the perioperative care of these patients, especially given that the compliance with ONS is acceptable. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(11):1149–1158

Aims. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of perioperative essential amino acid (EAA) supplementation to prevent rectus femoris muscle atrophy and facilitate early recovery of function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods. The study involved 60 patients who underwent unilateral TKA for primary knee osteo-arthritis (OA). This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized control trial with patients randomly allocated to two groups, 30 patients each: the essential amino acid supplementation (9 g daily) and placebo (lactose powder, 9 g daily) groups. Supplementation and placebo were provided from one week before to two weeks after surgery. The area of the rectus femoris muscle were measured by ultrasound imaging one month before surgery and one, two, three, and four weeks postoperatively. The serum albumin level, a visual analogue knee pain score, and mobility were also measured at each time point. The time to recovery of activities of daily living (ADLs) was recorded. Postoperative nutrition and physiotherapy were identical in both groups. Results. The mean relative change from baseline was as follows for the amino acid group: 116% in rectus femoris muscle area (71% to 206%); 95% in serum albumin (80% to 115%) and 39% in VAS pain (0% to 100%) at four weeks after surgery. These values in the placebo group were: 97% in muscle area (68 to 155); 89% in serum albumin (71% to 100%) and 56% in VAS pain four weeks after surgery (0% to 100%). All changes were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The mean time to recovery of ADLs was shorter in the amino acid group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.005). Conclusion. Perioperative essential amino acid supplementation prevents rectus femoris muscle atrophy and accelerates early functional recovery after TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(6 Supple A):10–18

Sarcopenia has been observed to be a predictor of mortality in international studies of patients with metastatic disease of the spine. This study aimed to validate sarcopenia as a prognostic tool in a New Zealand setting. A secondary aim of this study was to assess the intra-observer reliability of measurements of psoas and vertebral body cross sectional areas on computed tomography imaging. A cohort of patients who had presented to Waikato Hospital with secondary neoplasia in the spinal column from 2014 to 2018 was selected. Cross sectional psoas and vertebral body areas were measured at the mid-pedicle L3 level, followed by calculation of the psoas to vertebral body cross sectional area ratio. Psoas to vertebral body cross sectional area ratio was compared with survivorship. The strength of the correlation between sarcopenia and survivorship was compared with the correlation between serum albumin and survivorship, as well as the correlation between the Metastatic Spine Risk Index (MSRI) and survivorship. A total of 110 patients who received operative (34) and non-operative (76) were included. The results demonstrate that psoas to vertebral body cross sectional area ratio is not statistically significantly correlated with survivorship (p=0.53). Serum albumin is significantly correlated with survivorship (p<0.0001), as was the MSRI. There is good intra-observer and inter-observer reliability for measurements of psoas to vertebral body cross sectional area. This study failed to demonstrate the utility for the psoas to vertebral body cross sectional area ratio that other studies have demonstrated in estimating survivorship. Serum albumin levels remain a useful prognostic indicator in patients with secondary tumours in the vertebral column

Malnutrition is an important consideration during the perioperative period and albumin is the most common laboratory surrogate for nutritional status. The purpose of this study is to identify if preoperative serum albumin measurements are predictive of infection following arthroscopic procedures. Patients undergoing knee, shoulder or hip arthroscopy between 2006–2016 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients with an arthroscopic current procedural terminology code and a preoperative serum albumin measurement were included. Patients with a history of prior infection, including a non-clean wound class, pre-existing wound infection or systemic sepsis were excluded. Independent t-tests where used to compare albumin values in patients with and without the occurrence of a postoperative infection. Pre-operative albumin levels were subsequently evaluated as predictors of infection with logistic regression models. There were 31,906 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 55.7 years (standard deviation (SD) 14.62) and average BMI was 31.7 (SD 7.21). The most prevalent comorbidities were hypertension (49.2%), diabetes (18.4%) and smoking history (16.9%). The average preoperative albumin was 4.18 (SD 0.42). There were 45 cases of superficial infection (0.14%), 10 cases of wound dehiscence (0.03%), 17 cases of deep infection (0.05%), 27 cases of septic arthritis or other organ space infection (0.08%) and 95 cases of any infection (0.30%). The preoperative albumin levels for patients who developed septic arthritis (mean difference (MD) 0.20, 95% CI, 0.038, 0.35, P = 0.015) or any infection (MD 0.14, 95% CI 0.05, 0.22, P = 0.002) were significantly lower than the normal population. Additionally, disseminated cancer, Hispanic race, inpatient status and smoking history were significant independent risk factors for infection, while female sex and increasing albumin were protective towards developing any infection. Rates of all infections were found to increase exponentially with decreasing albumin. The relative risk of infection with an albumin of 2 was 3.46 (95% CI, 2.74–4.38) when compared to a normal albumin of 4. For each albumin increase of 0.69, the odds of developing any infection decreases by a factor of 0.52. This study suggests that preoperative serum albumin is an independent predictor of septic arthritis and all infection following elective arthroscopic procedures. Although the effect of albumin on infection is modest, malnutrition may represent a modifiable risk factor with regard to preventing infection following arthroscopy

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. Methods. We prospectively analyzed 241 patients with spinal metastasis who underwent palliative surgery from June 2015 to December 2021. Postoperative complications were assessed by the Clavien-Dindo classification; scores of ≥ Grade II were defined as complications. Data were collected regarding demographics (age, sex, BMI, and primary cancer) and preoperative clinical factors (new Katagiri score, Frankel grade, performance status, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, spinal instability neoplastic score, modified Frailty Index-11 (mFI), diabetes, and serum albumin levels). Univariate and multivariate analyses were developed to identify risk factors for postoperative complications (p < 0.05). Results. Overall, 57 postoperative complications occurred in 47 of 241 (19.5%) patients. The most common complications were wound infection/dehiscence, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia. Univariate analysis identified preoperative radiotherapy (p = 0.028), mFI (p < 0.001), blood loss ≥ 500 ml (p = 0.016), and preoperative molecular targeted drugs (p = 0.030) as potential risk factors. From the receiver operating characteristic curve, the clinically optimal cut-off value of mFI was 0.27 (sensitivity, 46.8%; specificity, 79.9%). Multivariate analysis identified mFI ≥ 0.27 (odds ratio (OR) 2.94 (95% CI 1.44 to 5.98); p = 0.003) and preoperative radiotherapy (OR 2.11 (95% CI 1.00 to 4.46); p = 0.049) as significant risk factors. In particular, urinary tract infection (p = 0.012) and pneumonia (p = 0.037) were associated with mFI ≥ 0.27. Furthermore, the severity of postoperative complications was positively correlated with mFI (p < 0.001). Conclusion. The mFI is a useful tool to predict the incidence and the severity of postoperative complications in spinal metastases surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(12):1469–1476

Introduction. Ink engineering can advance 3D-printability for better therapeutics, with optimized proprieties. Herein, we describe a methodology for yielding 3D-printable nanocomposite inks (NC) using low-viscous matrices, via the interaction between the organic and inorganic phases by chemical coupling. Method. Natural photocurable matrices were synthesized: a protein – bovine serum albumin methacrylate (BSAMA), and a polysaccharide – hyaluronic acid methacrylate (HAMA). Bioglass nanoparticles (BGNP) were synthesized and functionalized via aminosilane chemistry. The functionalization of BSAMA, HAMA, and BGNP were quantified via NMR. To arise extrudable inks, 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) chemistry was used to link innate carboxylic groups of BSAMA/HAMA and amine-functionalized BGNP. Different crosslinker and BGNP amounts were tested. Visible light photopolymerization is performed, using lithium phenyl-2,4,6-trimethylbenzoylphosphinate. The NC's rheological, mechanical, and biological behavior was evaluated before 3D extrusion printability. Result. All composite formulations effectively immobilized and homogeneously dispersed the BGNP, turning low-viscous materials (< 1 Pa) into shear-thinning formulations with tunable increased elastic/viscous moduli (50-500 Pa). More pronounced increments were found with increasing EDC/NHS and BGNP concentrations. The resulting inks produce robust and stable scaffolds successfully retrieved after post-print photocrosslinking (1-5 kPa). Bioactivity in simulated body fluid and in vitro assays using adipose-derive stem cells revealed a similar calcium/phosphate ratio to that of hydroxyapatite, and increased viability and metabolic activity. BSAMA and HAMA demonstrated distinct natures not only in printability but also in overall cellular performance and mechanical properties, making these ideal for interfacial tissue engineering. Conclusion. This strategy demonstrated being effective and reproducible to advance nanocomposites for 3D printing using different types of biomaterials. Further, we envision using both inks to produce hierarchical constructs via extrusion printing, better mimicking bone-to-cartilage interfaces. Acknowledgements. FCT grants (DOI:10.54499/2022.04605.CEECIND/CP1720/CT0021), (BI/UI89/10303/2022), (PRT/BD/154735/2023); EU's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programs InterLynk (Nº953169) and SUPRALIFE (Nº101079482) projects; CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials projects (DOI:10.54499/UIDB/50011/2020), (DOI:10.54499/UIDP/50011/2020), and (DOI:10.54499/LA/P/0006/2020), financed by FCT/MCTES(PIDDAC)

Introduction: Wound discharge is a well-known and troubling problem after orthopedic surgical procedures. Diagnosis of its etiology is critical for proper management. One of the most important etiologies of wound discharge is surgical site infection. Hypoalbuminemia is a known problem after surgeries of spine and in burn victims and its association with some complications such as impaired wound or bone healing increased surgical failure rates and increased rate of infection in these patients is considered by some authors. In this study we considere hypoalbuminemia as a cause of culture-negative, clear (transudative) surgical wound discharge after orthopedic procedures and discuss the effect of its management on cessation of discharge. Method: In a prospective cross sectional study during one year, we evaluated all patients with ongoing orthopedic surgical wound discharge except for discharges after spinal surgeries and those for the treatment of suspected musculoskeletal infections. The patients with culture negative, clear (transudative) surgical wound discharge were evaluated for the presence of hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin< 3.5 g/dl) as a cause of the problem. The outcome of the correction of hypoalbuminemia on cessation of the discharge and occurrence of any complications regarding this treatment were assessed carefully. Results: Among 2573 orthopedic surgical procedures, we found 11 culture negative clear (transudative) wound discharges (incidence: 0.4%). There were 7 male and 4 females with mean age of 59 years (age range between 34 and 83 years). The mean of serum albumin level in these patients was 2.8 g/dl (range between 2.1 g/dl to 3.2 g/dl). The discharge was started 3 to 8 days (mean: 4.8) after surgery, continued for 2 to 6 days (mean: 3.7) after initiation of albumin administration, and has been stopped since one day before to one day after normalization of the serum albumin level. Interestingly, all of the patients had a major orthopedic surgical procedure on the proximal parts of their lower limbs. Blood transfusion was done in 10 cases and there was a significant association between serum albumin level and ICU admission (p Value < 0.05). During the study no complication directly related to albumin administration was detected. Conclusions: hypoalbuminemia should be considered as the cause of sterile and clear wound discharges especially after orthopedic surgical procedures on proximal parts of lower limb. The management of hypoalbuminemia could be related to cessation of the discharge

Aim. This study seeks to outline the clinical, laboratory, and imaging features of patients with pyogenic spondylitis. It aims to define a novel imaging sign that could indicate the severity of suppurative spondylitis, aiding in its early diagnosis and treatment. Method. This retrospective study included 137 patients from 2013 to 2023. Through the analysis and summary of imaging characteristics among all patients, we identified a distinct MRI sign known as ‘the Disc Penetration sign’ (DP). This sign is defined as an image finding on sagittal MRI depicting the anterior and posterior penetration of an abscess through the intervertebral disc space, affecting both the anterior margin of the vertebrae and the structures within the spinal canal. Observational parameters included WBC, ESR, CRP, hemoglobin, and albumin levels. Documentation of the study included location and segment of the lesion, presence or absence of spinal cord compression, and paravertebral abscesses. Results. 56 patients presented with the Disc Penetration sign(DP) and 81 did not. In both groups, there were no significant differences in gender ratio or age (P > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed in the presence of comorbid diabetes and chronic kidney disease (p < 0.05). The DP group had a significantly greater ESR level (74.30±33.79 mm/h vs. 51.46±30.46 mm/h, P < 0.001) and CRP level (47.28 mg/L vs. 26.18 mg/L, P = 0.003). Additionally, the DP group had a significantly lower Hb (100.66±19.82 g/L vs. 116.99±19.99g/L,P < 0.001) and the serum albumin level (28.81±6.59 g/L vs. 34.09±6.17 g/L,P < 0.001). Imaging results showed no significant differences in affected spinal segments or parts (p>0.05). Patients in the DP group showed a higher likelihood of developing paravertebral abscesses compared to those in the non-DP group (n = 54 [96.4%] vs. n = 33 [40.7%], P < 0.001), and also exhibited a higher incidence of spinal cord compression(n = 32 [57.1%] vs. n = 17 [21.0%], P < 0.001). Conclusions. The study suggests that the Disc Penetration sign in pyogenic spondylitis patients correlates with more severe inflammation and higher incidence of paraspinal abscess, pointing to worse stability of the spine, longer bone restructuring time, and potentially poorer prognosis. These findings enable clinicians to rapidly assess the severity of the disease and prognosticate outcomes more effectively We emphasize the need for early, pathogen-specific diagnosis and treatment, particularly considering surgical intervention for patients demonstrating substantial paraspinal abscesses or spinal instability

Objectives. The goal of this study was to determine whether intra-articular administration of the potentially anti-fibrotic agent decorin influences the expression of genes involved in the fibrotic cascade, and ultimately leads to less contracture, in an animal model. Methods. A total of 18 rabbits underwent an operation on their right knees to form contractures. Six limbs in group 1 received four intra-articular injections of decorin; six limbs in group 2 received four intra-articular injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) over eight days; six limbs in group 3 received no injections. The contracted limbs of rabbits in group 1 were biomechanically and genetically compared with the contracted limbs of rabbits in groups 2 and 3, with the use of a calibrated joint measuring device and custom microarray, respectively. Results. There was no statistical difference in the flexion contracture angles between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those that received intra-articular BSA (66° vs 69°; p = 0.41). Likewise, there was no statistical difference between those limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those who had no injection (66° vs 72°; p = 0.27). When compared with BSA, decorin led to a statistically significant increase in the mRNA expression of 12 genes (p < 0.01). In addition, there was a statistical change in the mRNA expression of three genes, when compared with those without injection. . Conclusions. In this model, when administered intra-articularly at eight weeks, 2 mg of decorin had no significant effect on joint contractures. However, our genetic analysis revealed a significant alteration in several fibrotic genes. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:82–8

Aim. To validate the implementation of relatively inexpensive and reliable laboratory tests in everyday clinical practice for the early recognition of malnutrition in patients with a hip fracture. Correlation of malnutrition with clinical parameters. Method. Retrospective study including all elderly patients operated for a hip fracture during a five year period. Patients were evaluated according to two laboratory parameters: serum albumin and total lymphocyte count. Both parameters are established and widely used nutritional indexes. Based on the results, patients were divided into four groups: Patients in group A had both parameters within normal limits. Group B had a low total lymphocyte count and a normal albumin level. Reversibly, patients in group C had a low albumin level and a normal total lymphocyte count. In group D both values were abnormal. The groups were compared according to three clinical parameters: waiting time to operation, duration of hospital stay and one year postoperative mortality. Results. Three hundred and twenty nine patients were included in the study. Statistically important differences were found for all three clinical parameters between malnourished patients (group D) and those with normal values (group A). Conclusion. Serum albumin levels and a total lymphocyte count are reliable nutritional indexes in patients with a hip fracture. Their implementation in clinical practice can contribute to the early recognition and appropriate treatment of patients with a worse prognosis

Summary. Based upon genetic analysis, decorin is an exciting pharmacologic agent of potential anti-fibrogenic effect on arthrofibrosis in our animal model. Introduction. While the pathophysiology of arthrofibrosis is not fully understood, some anti-fibrotic molecules such as decorin could potentially be used for the prevention or treatment of joint stiffness. The goal of this study was to determine whether intra-articular administration of decorin influences the expression of genes involved in the fibrotic cascade ultimately leading to less contracture in an animal model. Material and Methods. Eighteen rabbits had their right knees operated on to form contractures. The left knees served as controls. The 6 right limbs in the experimental group (Group 1) received four 500 ug/ml intra-articular injections of decorin over 8 days starting at 8 week, for a total of 2 mg. The 6 right limbs in the first control group (Group 2) received four intra-articular injections of bovine serum albumin (BSA) over 8 days starting at 8 weeks as well. The 6 six right limbs in the second control group (Group 3) received no injections. The contracted limbs of rabbits in Group 1 were biomechanically and genetically compared to the contracted limbs of rabbits in Groups 2 and 3 with the use of a calibrated joint measuring device and custom microarray, respectively. Results. There was no statistical difference in the flexion contracture angles between those right limbs that received intra-articular decorin versus those that received intra-articular BSA (66° vs. 69°; p = 0.41). Likewise, there was no statistical difference between those right limbs that received intra-articular decorin as opposed to those who had no injection (66° vs. 72°; p = 0.27). The lack of significance remained when the control left limbs were taken into account (p > 0.40). When compared to bovine serum albumin (BSA), decorin led to a statistically significant increase in the mRNA expression of 5 genes: substance P, neuropeptide γ, and neurokinin A, cyclin E2, and MMP-9 (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a statistically significant decrease in fibroblast growth factor receptor-2 (FGFR-2), rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase-1 (ROCK-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) genes when intra-articular decorin was compared to no injection (p < 0.001). Conclusions. In this model, when administered intra-articularly at 8 weeks, 2 mg of decorin had no significant effect on joint contractures. However, our genetic analysis revealed a significant alteration in the expression of several fibrotic genes. Further studies investigating the route of administration, dosing, frequency, and timing are required before definitive conclusions may be drawn on the effects of decorin on joint contractures

Introduction. Hypoalbuminemia has previously been identified as an independent predictor of postoperative complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Given the morbidity and financial burden associated with TKA complications, significant effort has gone into identifying patients at increased risk for perioperative complications. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status score has been utilized for risk stratification of surgical patients for many years and is a measure of overall health. However, it is unclear how measures like albumin compare to the prognostic ability of this type of global health measure. This study aims to elucidate the utility of preoperative albumin compared with that of the ASA score in predicting complications following TKA. Methods. Patients undergoing TKA between 2005 and 2015 were identified using the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database. Patients were stratified based on preoperative hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dL) and ASA score (≤ 2 vs. > 2). Multivariable regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, BMI, and smoking status was utilized to determine predictive potential of hypoalbuminemia and ASA score on each postoperative complication. Results. Of the 79,661 patients included in the cohort, 4.3% had preoperative hypoalbuminemia. Univariate regression analysis found significant predictive abilities of both serum albumin and ASA score on numerous postoperative complications, such as superficial infection, deep infection, MI, pneumonia, renal insufficiency, reintubation, transfusion, readmission, reoperation, and death. Interestingly, multivariable regression analysis demonstrated that hypoalbuminemia more robustly predicted postoperative deep infection than ASA. Discussion and Conclusion. Hypoalbuminemia and ASA each individually predict numerous postoperative complications following TKA. However, this study suggests that while ASA score more accurately predicts post-operative medical complications, hypoalbuminemia may be a more accurate predictor of periprosthetic infection following TKA. Ultimately, preoperative albumin should be incorporated in the pre-operative work-up routine to stratify patient risk, especially regarding postoperative infection

Obtaining primary wound healing in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is essential to a good result. Wound healing disturbances (WHD) can occur and the consequences can be devastating to the patient and to the surgeon. Determination of the host healing capacity can be useful in predicting complications. Cierney and Mader classified patients as Type A: no healing compromises and Type B: systemic or local healing compromise factors present. Local factors include traumatic arthritis with multiple previous incisions, extensive scarring, lymphodema, poor vascular perfusion, and excessive local adipose deposition. Systemic compromising factors include diabetes, rheumatic diseases, renal or liver disease, immunocompromise, steroids, smoking, and poor nutrition. Low serum albumin, total lymphocyte count, and low transferrin increase WHD. In high risk situations the surgeon should encourage positive patient choices such as smoking cessation and nutritional supplementation to modify healing responses. Use of tourniquet in obese patients also increases WHD. Careful planning of incisions, particularly in patients with scarring or multiple previous operations, is productive. Around the knee the vascular viability is better in the medial flap. Thusly, use the most lateral previous incision, do minimal undermining, and handle tissue meticulously. We do all potentially complicated TKA's without tourniquet to enhance blood flow and tissue viability. The use of perioperative anticoagulation will increase wound problems. If wound drainage or healing problems do occur, immediate action is required. Deep sepsis can be ruled out with a joint aspiration and cell count (less than 2500), differential (less than 60% polys), and negative culture and sensitivity. All hematomas should be evacuated and necrosis or dehiscence should be managed by debridement to obtain a live wound

The changes in serum adjusted ionised calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were prospectively studied in 32 patients with isolated tibial fractures, treated conservatively. We measured serum albumin, adjusted total calcium, phosphate, pH, adjusted ionised calcium and PTH at intervals until the fractures had healed. The mean ionised calcium adjusted for pH fell within 24 hours of injury, and then rose to a peak at between four and six weeks. These changes cannot be explained by changes in serum pH or PTH. The restoration of normal ionised calcium levels after fracture coincided with the period when the callus was being calcified. Analysis of the changes in ionised calcium, phosphate and PTH suggests that PTH levels alter in response to changes in ionised calcium levels. PTH is highest immediately after fracture and lowest, often not recordable, at six weeks. The cause of the changes in the ionised calcium level has yet to be elucidated