Acetabular labral tears and associated intra-articular pathology of the hip have been recognised as a source of symptoms. However, it is now appreciated that there is a relatively high prevalence of asymptomatic labral tears. In this study, 70 young asymptomatic adult volunteers with a mean age of 26 years (19 to 41) were recruited and underwent three tesla non-arthrographic MR scans. There were 47 women (67.1%) and 23 men (32.9%). Labral tears were found in 27 volunteers (38.6%); these were an isolated finding in 16 (22.9%) and were associated with other intra-articular pathology in the remaining 11 (15.7%) volunteers. Furthermore, five (7.1%) had intra-articular pathology without an associated labral tear. Given the high prevalence of labral pathology in the asymptomatic population, it is important to confirm that a patient's symptoms are due to the demonstrated abnormalities when considering surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:623–7

Aims. The aim of this study was to report the pooled prevalence of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) and examine whether the risk of developing PTOA after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has decreased in recent decades. Methods. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched from 1 January 1980 to 11 May 2022. Patient series, observational studies, and clinical trials having reported the prevalence of radiologically confirmed PTOA after ACL injury, with at least a ten-year follow-up, were included. All studies were analyzed simultaneously, and separate analyses of the operative and nonoperative knees were performed. The prevalence of PTOA was calculated separately for each study, and pooled prevalence was reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using either a fixed or random effects model. To examine the effect of the year of injury on the prevalence, a logit transformed meta-regression analysis was used with a maximum-likelihood estimator. Results from meta-regression analyses were reported with the unstandardized coefficient (β). Results. The pooled prevalence of PTOA was 37.9% (95% CI 32.1 to 44) for operatively treated ACL injuries with a median follow-up of 14.6 years (interquartile range (IQR) 10.6 to 16.7). For nonoperatively treated ACL injuries, the prevalence was 40.5% (95% CI 28.9 to 53.3), with a median of follow-up of 15 years (IQR 11.7 to 20.0). The association between the year of operation and the prevalence of PTOA was weak and imprecise and not related to the choice of treatment (operative β -0.038 (95% CI -0.076 to 0.000) and nonoperative β -0.011 (95% CI -0.101 to 0.079)). Conclusion. The initial injury, irrespective of management, has, by the balance of probability, resulted in PTOA within 20 years. In addition, the prevalence of PTOA has only slightly decreased during past decades. Therefore, further research is warranted to develop strategies to prevent the development of PTOA after ACL injuries. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(11):1140–1148

Aims. This study examined windswept deformity (WSD) of the knee, comparing prevalence and contributing factors in healthy and osteoarthritic (OA) cohorts. Methods. A case-control radiological study was undertaken comparing 500 healthy knees (250 adults) with a consecutive sample of 710 OA knees (355 adults) undergoing bilateral total knee arthroplasty. The mechanical hip-knee-ankle angle (mHKA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), and lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA) were determined for each knee, and the arithmetic hip-knee-ankle angle (aHKA), joint line obliquity, and Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) types were calculated. WSD was defined as a varus mHKA of < -2° in one limb and a valgus mHKA of > 2° in the contralateral limb. The primary outcome was the proportional difference in WSD prevalence between healthy and OA groups. Secondary outcomes were the proportional difference in WSD prevalence between constitutional varus and valgus CPAK types, and to explore associations between predefined variables and WSD within the OA group. Results. WSD was more prevalent in the OA group compared to the healthy group (7.9% vs 0.4%; p < 0.001, relative risk (RR) 19.8). There was a significant difference in means and variance between the mHKA of the healthy and OA groups (mean -1.3° (SD 2.3°) vs mean -3.8°(SD 6.6°) respectively; p < 0.001). No significant differences existed in MPTA and LDFA between the groups, with a minimal difference in aHKA (mean -0.9° healthy vs -0.5° OA; p < 0.001). Backwards logistic regression identified meniscectomy, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteotomy as predictors of WSD (odds ratio (OR) 4.1 (95% CI 1.7 to 10.0), p = 0.002; OR 11.9 (95% CI 1.3 to 89.3); p = 0.016; OR 41.6 (95% CI 5.4 to 432.9), p ≤ 0.001, respectively). Conclusion. This study found a 20-fold greater prevalence of WSD in OA populations. The development of WSD is associated with meniscectomy, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteotomy. These findings support WSD being mostly an acquired condition following skeletal maturity. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(10):879–885

Aims. The modern prevalence of primary tumours causing metastatic bone disease is ill-defined in the oncological literature. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of primary tumours in the setting of metastatic bone disease, as well as reported rates of pathological fracture, postoperative complications, 90-day mortality, and 360-day mortality for each primary tumour subtype. Methods. The Premier Healthcare Database was queried to identify all patients who were diagnosed with metastatic bone disease from January 2015 to December 2020. The prevalence of all primary tumour subtypes was tabulated. Rates of long bone pathological fracture, 90-day mortality, and 360-day mortality following surgical treatment of pathological fracture were assessed for each primary tumour subtype. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes were analyzed based upon whether patients had impending fractures treated prophylactically versus treated completed fractures. Results. In total, 407,893 unique patients with metastatic bone disease were identified. Of the 14 primary tumours assessed, metastatic bone disease most frequently originated from lung (24.8%), prostatic (19.4%), breast (19.3%), gastrointestinal (9.4%), and urological (6.5%) malignancies. The top five malignant tumours resulting in long bone pathological fracture were renal (5.8%), myeloma (3.4%), female reproductive (3.2%), lung (2.8%), and breast (2.7%). Following treatment of pathological fractures of long bones, 90-day mortality rates were greatest for lung (12.1%), central nervous system (10.5%), lymphoma (10.4%), gastrointestinal (10.1%), and non-renal urinary (10.0%) malignancies. Finally, our study demonstrates improved 90-day and 360-day survival in patients treated for impending pathological fracture compared to completed fracture, as well as significantly lower rates of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, urinary tract infection, and blood transfusion. Conclusion. This study defines the contemporary characteristics of primary malignancies resulting in metastatic bone disease. These data should be considered by surgeons when prognosticating patient outcomes during treatment of their metastatic bone disease. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(6):424–431

Aims. Osteoporosis is common in total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients. It plays a substantial factor in the surgery’s outcome, and previous studies have revealed that pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis influences implant survival rate. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of and treatment rates for osteoporosis prior to THA, and to explore differences in osteoporosis-related biomarkers between patients treated and untreated for osteoporosis. Methods. This single-centre retrospective study included 398 hip joints of patients who underwent THA. Using medical records, we examined preoperative bone mineral density measures of the hip and lumbar spine using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans and the medications used to treat osteoporosis at the time of admission. We also assessed the following osteoporosis-related biomarkers: tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b); total procollagen type 1 amino-terminal propeptide (total P1NP); intact parathyroid hormone; and homocysteine. Results. The prevalence of DXA-proven hip osteoporosis (T-score ≤ -2.5) among THA patients was 8.8% (35 of 398). The spinal osteoporosis prevalence rate was 4.5% (18 of 398), and 244 patients (61.3%; 244 of 398) had osteopenia (-2.5 < T-score ≤ -1) or osteoporosis of either the hip or spine. The rate of pharmacological osteoporosis treatment was 22.1% (88 of 398). TRACP-5b was significantly lower in the osteoporosis-treated group than in the untreated group (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Osteoporosis is common in patients undergoing THA, but the diagnosis and treatment for osteoporosis were insufficient. The lower TRACP-5b levels in the osteoporosis-treated group — that is, osteoclast suppression — may contribute to the reduction of the postoperative revision rate after THA. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(12):873–880

Aims. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and patterns of neuropathic pain over one year in a cohort of patients with chronic post-surgical pain at three months following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods. Between 2016 and 2019, 363 patients with troublesome pain, defined as a score of ≤ 14 on the Oxford Knee Score pain subscale, three months after TKA from eight UK NHS hospitals, were recruited into the Support and Treatment After Replacement (STAR) clinical trial. Self-reported neuropathic pain and postoperative pain was assessed at three, nine, and 15 months after surgery using the painDETECT and Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaires collected by postal survey. Results. Symptoms of neuropathic pain were common among patients reporting chronic pain at three months post-TKA, with half reporting neuropathic pain on painDETECT (191/363; 53%) and 74% (267/359) on DN4. Of those with neuropathic pain at three months, half continued to have symptoms over the next 12 months (148/262; 56%), one-quarter had improved (67/262; 26%), and for one-tenth their neuropathic symptoms fluctuated over time (24/262; 9%). However, a subgroup of participants reported new, late onset neuropathic symptoms (23/262; 9%). Prevalence of neuropathic symptoms was similar between the screening tools when the lower cut-off painDETECT score (≥ 13) was applied. Overall, mean neuropathic pain scores improved between three and 15 months after TKA. Conclusion. Neuropathic pain is common in patients with chronic pain at three months after TKA. Although neuropathic symptoms improved over time, up to half continued to report painful neuropathic symptoms at 15 months after TKA. Postoperative care should include screening, assessment, and treatment of neuropathic pain in patients with early chronic postoperative pain after TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(6):582–588

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an increased prevalence of scoliosis in patients who have suffered from a haematopoietic malignancy in childhood. Methods. Patients with a history of lymphoma or leukaemia with a current age between 12 and 25 years were identified from the regional paediatric oncology database. The medical records and radiological findings were reviewed, and any spinal deformity identified. The treatment of the malignancy and the spinal deformity, if any, was noted. Results. From a cohort of 346 patients, 19 (5.5%) had radiological evidence of scoliosis, defined as a Cobb angle of > 10°. A total of five patients (1.4% of the total cohort) had a Cobb angle of > 40°, all of whom had corrective surgery. No patient with scoliosis had other pathology as a possible cause of the scoliosis and all had been treated with high doses of steroids for leukaemia, either acute or chronic myeloid, or acute lymphoblastic. Conclusion. There is an increased prevalence of idiopathic-like scoliosis and larger curves (Cobb angle of > 40°) associated with childhood leukaemia, which has not been previously reported in the literature. Causative factors may relate to the underlying disease process and/or its treatment. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(8):1400–1404

Aims. The prevalence of combined abnormalities of femoral torsion (FT) and tibial torsion (TT) is unknown in patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and hip dysplasia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of combined abnormalities of FT and TT, and which subgroups are associated with combined abnormalities of FT and TT. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated symptomatic patients with FAI or hip dysplasia with CT scans performed between September 2011 and September 2016. A total of 261 hips (174 patients) had a measurement of FT and TT. Their mean age was 31 years (SD 9), and 63% were female (165 hips). Patients were compared to an asymptomatic control group (48 hips, 27 patients) who had CT scans including femur and tibia available for analysis, which had been acquired for nonorthopaedic reasons. Comparisons were conducted using analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction. Results. In the overall study group, abnormal FT was present in 62% (163 hips). Abnormal TT was present in 42% (109 hips). Normal FT combined with normal TT was present in 21% (55 hips). The most frequent abnormal combination was increased FT combined with normal TT of 32% (84 hips). In the hip dysplasia group, 21% (11 hips) had increased FT combined with increased TT. The prevalence of abnormal FT varied significantly among the subgroups (p < 0.001). We found a significantly higher mean FT for hip dysplasia (31°; SD 15)° and valgus hips (42° (SD 12°)) compared with the control group (22° (SD 8°)). We found a significantly higher mean TT for hips with cam-type-FAI (34° (SD 6°)) and hip dysplasia (35° (SD 9°)) compared with the control group (28° (SD 8°)) (p < 0.001). Conclusion. Patients with FAI had a high prevalence of combined abnormalities of FT and TT. For hip dysplasia, we found a significantly higher mean FT and TT, while 21% of patients (11 hips) had combined increased TT and increased FT (combined torsional malalignment). This is important when planning hip preserving surgery such as periacetabular osteomy and femoral derotation osteotomy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1636–1645

Aims. Gender bias and sexual discrimination (GBSD) have been widely recognized across a range of fields and are now part of the wider social consciousness. Such conduct can occur in the medical workplace, with detrimental effects on recipients. The aim of this review was to identify the prevalence and impact of GBSD in orthopaedic surgery, and to investigate interventions countering such behaviours. Methods. A systematic review was conducted by searching Medline, EMCARE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library Database in April 2020, and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to which we adhered. Original research papers pertaining to the prevalence and impact of GBSD, or mitigating strategies, within orthopaedics were included for review. Results. Of 570 papers, 27 were eligible for inclusion. These were published between 1998 and 2020. A narrative review was performed in light of the significant heterogeneity displayed by the eligible studies. A total of 13 papers discussed the prevalence of GBSD, while 13 related to the impact of these behaviours, and six discussed mitigating strategies. GBSD was found to be common in the orthopaedic workplace, with all sources showing women to be the subjects. The impact of this includes poor workforce representation, lower salaries, and less career success, including in academia, for women in orthopaedics. Mitigating strategies in the literature are focused on providing female role models, mentors, and educational interventions. Conclusion. GBSD is common in orthopaedic surgery, with a substantial impact on sufferers. A small number of mitigating strategies have been tested but these are limited in their scope. As such, the orthopaedic community is obliged to participate in more thoughtful and proactive strategies that mitigate against GBSD, by improving female recruitment and retention within the specialty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1446–1456

Aims. The aims of this meta-analysis were to assess: 1) the prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in hip fracture patients; 2) the associated mortality rate and risk associated with COVID-19; 3) the patient demographics associated with COVID-19; 4) time of diagnosis; and 5) length of follow-up after diagnosis of COVID-19. Methods. Searches of PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar were performed in October 2020 in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Search terms included “hip”, “fracture”, and “COVID-19”. The criteria for inclusion were published clinical articles reporting the mortality rate associated with COVID-19 in hip fracture patients. In total, 53 articles were identified and following full text screening 28 articles satisfied the inclusion criteria. Results. A total of 28 studies reported the mortality of COVID-19-positive patients, of which 21 studies reported the prevalence of COVID-19-positive patients and compared the mortality rate to COVID-19-negative patients. The prevalence of COVID-19 was 13% (95% confidence interval (CI) 11% to 16%) and was associated with a crude mortality rate of 35% (95% CI 32% to 39%), which was a significantly increased risk compared to those patients without COVID-19 (odds ratio (OR) 7.11, 95% CI 5.04 to 10.04; p < 0.001). COVID-19-positive patients were more likely to be male (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.96; p = 0.002). The duration of follow-up was reported in 20 (71.4%) studies. A total of 17 studies reported whether a patient presented with COVID-19 (n = 108 patients, 35.1%) or developed COVID-19 following admission (n = 200, 64.9%), of which six studies reported a mean time to diagnosis of post-admission COVID-19 at 15 days (2 to 25). Conclusion. The prevalence of COVID-19 was 13%, of which approximately one-third of patients were diagnosed on admission, and was associated with male sex. COVID-19-positive patients had a crude mortality rate of 35%, being seven times greater than those without COVID-19. Due to the heterogenicity of the reported data minimum reporting standards of outcomes associated with COVID-19 are suggested. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2020;9(12):873–883

Aims. The aim of this study is to evaluate the change in incidence rate of shoulder arthroplasty, indications, and surgeon volume trends associated with these procedures between January 2003 and April 2021 in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. Methods. A total of 1,545 patients between 2005 and 2021 were analyzed. Patients operated on between 2003 and 2004 were excluded due to a lack of electronic records. Overall, 84.1% of the surgeries (n = 1,299) were performed by two fellowship-trained upper limb surgeons, with the remainder performed by one of the 14 orthopaedic surgeons working in the province. Results. Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) was the most frequent procedure (32.17%; n = 497), followed by stemmed hemiarthroplasty (SHA) (27.7%; n = 428). The most frequent indication for primary shoulder arthroplasty was degenerative osteoarthritis (58.1%; n = 882), followed by acute proximal humerus fracture in 15.11% (n = 245), and rotator cuff arthropathy in 14.18% (n = 220). The overall rate of revision was 7.7% (2.8% to 11.2%). The number of TSAs and reverse shoulder arthroplasties (RSAs) has been increasing since 2016. The amount of revision cases is proportional to the number of operations performed in the same year throughout the study period. Conclusion. The incidence of shoulder arthroplasty in the Maritime Provinces has increased over the last 16 years. Revision rates are similar the those found in other large database registries. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty prevalence has increased since 2016. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):567–572

Aims. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of sarcopenia and to examine its impact on patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS). Patients and Methods. This case-control study included two groups: one group consisting of patients with DLSS and a second group of control subjects without low back or neck pain and related leg pain. Five control cases were randomly selected and matched by age and gender (n = 77 cases and n = 385 controls) for each DLSS case. Appendicular muscle mass, hand-grip strength, sit-to-stand test, timed up and go (TUG) test, and clinical outcomes, including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores and the EuroQol EQ-5D were compared between the two groups. Results. The prevalence of sarcopenia, as defined by hand-grip strength, was significantly higher in the DLSS group (24%) when compared with the age- and gender-matched control group (12%) (p = 0.004). In the DLSS group, the sarcopenia subgroup demonstrated inferior results for the TUG test and ODI scores when compared with the non-sarcopenia subgroup (p = 0.006 and p = 0.039, respectively) after adjusting for age and gender. Conclusion. This study demonstrated a higher prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with DLSS and highlighted its negative effect on clinical outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1093–8

Aims. This study sought to establish the prevalence of the cross over sign (COS) and posterior wall sign (PWS) in relation to the anterior pelvic plane (APP) in an asymptomatic population through reliable and accurate 3D-CT based assessment. Materials and Methods. Data from pelvic CT scans of 100 asymptomatic subjects (200 hips) undertaken for conditions unrelated to disorders of the hip were available for analysis in this study. A previously established 3D analysis method was applied to assess the prevalence of the COS and PWS in relation to the APP. Results. Of the 200 included hips, 24% (48) presented a positive COS and 5.5% (11) presented a positive PWS. A combination of COS and PWS was observed in 1% (two) of all hips (1%). . Conclusion. The high incidence of acetabular retroversion, determined by the COS, shows that this anatomic configuration may not differ in frequency between asymptomatic individuals and patients with symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Patients presenting with hip pain and evidence of FAI should be subjected to strict diagnostic scrutiny and evaluated in the sum of their clinical and radiological presentation. In our cohort of asymptomatic adults, the COS showed a higher incidence than the PWS or a combined COS/PWS. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1584–9

In many papers, the diagnosis of pincer-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is attributed to the presence of coxa profunda. However, little is known about the prevalence of coxa profunda in the general population and its clinical relevance. In order to ascertain its prevalence in asymptomatic subjects and whether it is a reliable indicator of pincer-type FAI, we undertook a cross-sectional study between July and December 2013. A total of 226 subjects (452 hips) were initially screened. According to strict inclusion criteria, 129 asymptomatic patients (257 hips) were included in the study. The coxa profunda sign, the crossover sign, the acetabular index (AI) and lateral centre–edge (LCE) angle were measured on the radiographs. The median age of the patients was 36.5 years (28 to 50) and 138 (53.7%) were women. Coxa profunda was present in 199 hips (77.4%). There was a significantly increased prevalence of coxa profunda in women (p < 0.05) and a significant association between coxa profunda and female gender (p < 0.001) (92% vs 60.5%). The crossover sign was seen in 36 hips (14%), an LCE > 40° in 28 hips (10.9%) and an AI < 0º in 79 hips (30.7%). A total of 221 normal hips (79.2%) (normal considering the crossover) had coxa profunda, a total of 229 normal hips (75.5%) (normal considering the LCE) had coxa profunda and a total of 178 normal hips (75.3%) (normal considering AI) had coxa profunda. When the presence of all radiological signs in the same subject was considered, pincer-type FAI was found in only two hips (one subject). We therefore consider that the coxa profunda sign should not be used as a radiological indicator of pincer-type FAI. We consider profunda to be a benign alteration in the morphology of the hip with low prevalence and a lack of association with other radiological markers of FAI. We suggest that the diagnosis of pincer-type FAI should be based on objective measures, in association with clinical findings. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:478–83

In order to determine the epidemiology of adult scoliosis in the elderly and to analyse the radiological parameters and symptoms related to adult scoliosis, we carried out a prospective cross-sectional radiological study on 1347 adult volunteers. There were 615 men and 732 women with a mean age of 73.3 years (60 to 94), and a mean Cobb angle of 7.55° (. sd. 5.95). In our study, 478 subjects met the definition of scoliosis (Cobb angle ≥10°) showing a prevalence of 35.5%. There was a significant difference in the epidemiological distribution and prevalence between the age and gender groups. The older adults showed a larger prevalence and more severe scoliosis, more prominent in women (p = 0.004). Women were more affected by adult scoliosis and showed more linear correlation with age (p < 0.001). Symptoms were more severe in those with scoliosis than in the normal group, but were similar between the mild, moderate and severe scoliosis groups (p = 0.224) and between men and women (p = 0.231). Adult scoliosis showed a significant relationship with lateral listhesis, vertebral rotation, lumbar hypolordosis, sagittal imbalance and a high level of the L4–5 disc (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p < 0.0001 respectively). Lateral listhesis, lumbar hypolordosis and sagittal imbalance were related to symptoms (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001, p < 0.0001 respectively)

Routine examination for spinal deformity as part of a school health screening programme was introduced in Singapore in 1981. The three different ethnic groups included in the study provided figures for the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in an Asian population. A three-tier system of examination was used and a total of 110744 children in three age groups were studied. In those aged 6 to 7 years the prevalence was 0.12%. The prevalence in those aged 11 to 12 years was 1.7% for girls and 0.4% for boys, a ratio of 3.2 to 1. In girls aged 16 to 17 years the prevalence was 3.1%. In the latter two age groups there was a significantly higher prevalence in Chinese girls as compared with Malay and Indian girls. The optimal age for school screening seemed to be 11 to 12 years, but repeated examinations may be worthwhile

In Norway total joint replacement after hip dysplasia is reported more commonly than in neighbouring countries, implying a higher prevalence of the condition. We report on the prevalence of radiological features associated with hip dysplasia in a population of 2081 19-year-old Norwegians. The radiological measurements used to define hip dysplasia were Wiberg’s centre-edge (CE) angle at thresholds of < 20° and < 25°, femoral head extrusion index <  75%, Sharp’s angle > 45°, an acetabular depth to width ratio < 250 and the sourcil shape assessed subjectively. The whole cohort underwent clinical examination of their range of hip movement, body mass index (BMI), and Beighton hypermobility score, and were asked to complete the EuroQol (EQ-5D) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). The prevalence of hip dysplasia in the cohort varied from 1.7% to 20% depending on the radiological marker used. A Wiberg’s CE angle <  20° was seen in 3.3% of the cohort: 4.3% in women and 2.4% in men. We found no association between subjects with multiple radiological signs indicative of dysplasia and BMI, Beighton score, EQ-5D or WOMAC. Although there appears to be a high prevalence of hip dysplasia among 19-year-old Norwegians, this is dependent on the radiological parameters applied. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:279–85

Aims. Gastrocnemius tightness predisposes to musculoskeletal pathology and may require surgical treatment. However, it is not clear what proportion of patients with foot and ankle pathology have clinically significant gastrocnemius tightness. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and degree of gastrocnemius tightness in a control group of patients with a group of patients with foot and ankle pathology. Patients and Methods. This prospective, case-matched, observational study compared gastrocnemius tightness, as assessed by the lunge test, in a control group and a group with foot and ankle pathology. Gastrocnemius tightness was calculated as the difference in dorsiflexion of the ankle with the knee extended and flexed. Results. A total of 291 controls were paired with 97 patients with foot and ankle pathology (FAP). The mean gastrocnemius tightness was 6.0° (. sd. 3.5) in controls and 8.0° (. sd. 5.7) in the FAP group (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed a mean gastrocnemius tightness of 10.3° (. sd.  6.0) in patients with forefoot pathology versus 6.9° (. sd. 5.3) in patients with other pathology (p = 0.008). A total of 12 patients (37.5%) with forefoot pathology had gastrocnemius tightness of > two standard deviations of the control group (> 13°). Conclusion. Gastrocnemius tightness of > 13° may be considered abnormal. Most patients with foot and ankle pathology do not have abnormal degrees of gastrocnemius tightness compared with controls, but it is present in over a third of patients with forefoot pathology. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:945–52

Aims. Abnormal femoral torsion (FT) is increasingly recognized as an additional cause for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). It is unknown if in-toeing of the foot is a specific diagnostic sign for increased FT in patients with symptomatic FAI. The aims of this study were to determine: 1) the prevalence and diagnostic accuracy of in-toeing to detect increased FT; 2) if foot progression angle (FPA) and tibial torsion (TT) are different among patients with abnormal FT; and 3) if FPA correlates with FT. Patients and Methods. A retrospective, institutional review board (IRB)-approved, controlled study of 85 symptomatic patients (148 hips) with FAI or hip dysplasia was performed in the gait laboratory. All patients had a measurement of FT (pelvic CT scan), TT (CT scan), and FPA (optical motion capture system). We allocated all patients to three groups with decreased FT (< 10°, 37 hips), increased FT (> 25°, 61 hips), and normal FT (10° to 25°, 50 hips). Cluster analysis was performed. Results. We found a specificity of 99%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 93%, and sensitivity of 23% for in-toeing (FPA < 0°) to detect increased FT > 25°. Most of the hips with normal or decreased FT had no in-toeing (false-positive rate of 1%). Patients with increased FT had significantly (p < 0.001) more in-toeing than patients with decreased FT. The majority of the patients (77%) with increased FT walk with a normal foot position. The correlation between FPA and FT was significant (r = 0.404, p < 0.001). Five cluster groups were identified. Conclusion. In-toeing has a high specificity and high PPV to detect increased FT, but increased FT can be missed because of the low sensitivity and high false-negative rate. These results can be used for diagnosis of abnormal FT in patients with FAI or hip dysplasia undergoing hip arthroscopy or femoral derotation osteotomy. However, most of the patients with increased FT walk with a normal foot position. This can lead to underestimation or misdiagnosis of abnormal FT. We recommend measuring FT with CT/MRI scans in all patients with FAI. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1218–1229

Aims. To identify the prevalence of neuropathic pain after lower limb fracture surgery, assess associations with pain severity, quality of life and disability, and determine baseline predictors of chronic neuropathic pain at three and at six months post-injury. Methods. Secondary analysis of a UK multicentre randomized controlled trial (Wound Healing in Surgery for Trauma; WHiST) dataset including adults aged 16 years or over following surgery for lower limb major trauma. The trial recruited 1,547 participants from 24 trauma centres. Neuropathic pain was measured at three and six months using the Doleur Neuropathique Questionnaire (DN4); 701 participants provided a DN4 score at three months and 781 at six months. Overall, 933 participants provided DN4 for at least one time point. Physical disability (Disability Rating Index (DRI) 0 to 100) and health-related quality-of-life (EuroQol five-dimension five-level; EQ-5D-5L) were measured. Candidate predictors of neuropathic pain included sex, age, BMI, injury mechanism, concurrent injury, diabetes, smoking, alcohol, analgaesia use pre-injury, index surgery location, fixation type, Injury Severity Score, open injury, and wound care. Results. The median age of the participants was 51 years (interquartile range 35 to 64). At three and six months post-injury respectively, 32% (222/702) and 30% (234/787) had neuropathic pain, 56% (396/702) and 53% (413/787) had chronic pain without neuropathic characteristics, and the remainder were pain-free. Pain severity was higher among those with neuropathic pain. Linear regression analyses found that those with neuropathic pain at six months post-injury had more physical disability (DRI adjusted mean difference 11.49 (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.84 to 15.14; p < 0.001) and poorer quality of life (EQ-5D utility -0.15 (95% CI -0.19 to -0.11); p < 0.001) compared to those without neuropathic characteristics. Logistic regression identified that prognostic factors of younger age, current smoker, below knee fracture, concurrent injuries, and regular analgaesia pre-injury were associated with higher odds of post-injury neuropathic pain. Conclusion. Pain with neuropathic characteristics is common after lower limb fracture surgery and persists to six months post-injury. Persistent neuropathic pain is associated with substantially poorer recovery. Further attention to identify neuropathic pain post-lower limb injury, predicting patients at risk, and targeting interventions, is indicated. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1047–1054

We investigated the development of CT-based bony radiological parameters associated with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in a paediatric and adolescent population with no known orthopaedic hip complaints. We retrospectively reformatted and reoriented 225 abdominal CTs into standardised CT pelvic images with neutral pelvic tilt and inclination (244 female and 206 male hips) in patients ranging from two to 19 years of age (mean 10.4 years). The Tönnis angle, acetabular depth ratio, lateral centre–edge angle, acetabular version and α-angle were assessed. Acetabular measurements demonstrated increased acetabular coverage with age and/or progressive ossification of the acetabulum. The α-angle decreased with age and/or progressive cortical bone development and resultant narrowing of the femoral neck. Cam and pincer morphology occurred as early as ten and 12 years of age, respectively, and their prevalence in the adolescent patient population is similar to that reported in the adult literature. Future aetiological studies of FAI will need to focus on the early adolescent population. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:598–604

We undertook clinical and ultrasonographic examination of the shoulders of 420 asymptomatic volunteers aged between 50 and 79 years. MRI was performed in selected cases. Full-thickness tears of the rotator cuff were detected in 32 subjects (7.6%). The prevalence increased with age as follows: 50 to 59 years, 2.1%; 60 to 69 years, 5.7%; and 70 to 79 years, 15%. The mean size of the tear was less than 3 cm and tear localisation was limited to the supraspinatus tendon in most cases (78%). The strength of flexion was reduced significantly in the group with tears (p = 0.01). Asymptomatic tears of the rotator cuff should be regarded as part of the normal ageing process in the elderly but may be less common than hitherto believed

Hypovitaminosis D has been identified as a common risk factor for fragility fractures and poor fracture healing. Epidemiological data on vitamin D deficiency have been gathered in various populations, but the association between vertebral fragility fractures and hypovitaminosis D, especially in males, remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH D) in patients presenting with vertebral fragility fractures and to determine whether patients with a vertebral fracture were at greater risk of hypovitaminosis D than a control population. Furthermore, we studied the seasonal variations in the serum vitamin D levels of tested patients in order to clarify the relationship between other known risk factors for osteoporosis and vitamin D levels. We measured the serum 25-OH D levels of 246 patients admitted with vertebral fractures (105 men, 141 female, mean age 69 years, . sd. 8.5), and in 392 orthopaedic patients with back pain and no fractures (219 men, 173 female, mean age 63 years, . sd. 11) to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency. Statistical analysis found a significant difference in vitamin D levels between patients with vertebral fragility fracture and the control group (p = 0.036). In addition, there was a significant main effect of the tested variables: obesity (p < 0.001), nicotine abuse (p = 0.002) and diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001). No statistical difference was found between vitamin D levels and gender (p = 0.34). Vitamin D insufficiency was shown to be a risk factor for vertebral fragility fractures in both men and women. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:89–93

We analysed the static footprints of 1846 skeletally mature individuals to establish the influence of the age at which shoe-wearing began on the prevalence of flat foot. The incidence was 3.24% among those who started to wear shoes before the age of six years, 3.27% in those who began between the ages of 6 and 15 and 1.75% in those who first wore shoes at the age of 16 (p < 0.001). Flat foot was highest in those who, as children, wore footwear for over eight hours each day. Obese individuals and those with ligament laxity had a higher prevalence of flat foot (p < 0.01 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Even after adjusting for these two variables, significantly higher rates of prevalence were noted among those who began to wear shoes before the age of six years. Our findings suggest an association between the wearing of shoes in early childhood and flat foot

Femoroacetabular impingement is a cause of hip pain in adults and is potentially a precursor of osteoarthritis. Our aim in this study was to determine the prevalence of bilateral deformity in patients with symptomatic cam-type femoroacetabular impingement as well as the presence of associated acetabular abnormalities and hip pain. We included all patients aged 55 years or less seen by the senior author for hip pain, with at least one anteroposterior and lateral pelvic radiograph available. All patients with dysplasia and/or arthritis were excluded. A total of 113 patients with a symptomatic cam-impingement deformity of at least one hip was evaluated. There were 82 men and 31 women with a mean age of 37.9 years (16 to 55). Bilateral cam-type deformity was present in 88 patients (77.8%) while only 23 of those (26.1%) had bilateral hip pain. Painful hips had a statistically significant higher mean alpha angle than asymptomatic hips (69.9° vs 63.1°, p < 0.001). Hips with an alpha angle of more than 60° had an odds ratio of being painful of 2.59 (95% confidence interval 1.32 to 5.08, p = 0.006) compared with those with an alpha angle of less than 60°. Of the 201 hips with a cam-impingement deformity 42% (84) also had a pincer deformity. Most patients with cam-type femoroacetabular impingement had bilateral deformities and there was an associated acetabular deformity in 84 of 201 patients (42%). This information is important in order to define the natural history of these deformities, and to determine treatment

There are few data available regarding the association between hallux valgus and pain or functional limitation. We determined the prevalence of hallux valgus in a rural Korean population aged between 40 and 69 years, and its association with pain and function. A total of 563 subjects was examined using the foot health status questionnaire, the Short Form-36 questionnaire and weight-bearing anteroposterior radiographs. Hallux valgus was present in 364 subjects (64.7%). It did not significantly correlate with age and was more common in women. Of the 364 subjects, 48 (13.2%) had moderate or greater deformity, defined as a hallux valgus angle > 25°. This was significantly associated with pain, worse function and worse foot health. The putative risk factors associated with painful hallux valgus were female gender, low educational attainment and the presence of pain in the knee

We analysed static footprints of 2300 children between the ages of four and 13 years to establish the influence of footwear on the prevalence of flat foot. The incidence among children who used footwear was 8.6% compared with 2.8% in those who did not (p less than 0.001). Significant differences between the predominance in shod and unshod children were noted in all age groups, most marked in those with generalised ligament laxity. Flat foot was most common in children who wore closed-toe shoes, less common in those who wore sandals or slippers, and least in the unshod. Our findings suggest that shoe-wearing in early childhood is detrimental to the development of a normal longitudinal arch

Aims

The present study investigated the five-year interval changes in pseudotumours and measured serum metal ions at long-term follow-up of a previous report of 28 mm diameter metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Both idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) are common, and may have similar clinical symptoms. The degree of their coexistence is uncertain. We have examined 30 patients, who were diagnosed clinically and electromyographically as having idiopathic CTS, for the presence of RP using a cold provocation test with photoplethysmography. The patients’ hands were exposed in water at 10°C for five minutes. A total of 18 patients (60%) was found to have RP; this is much greater than would be expected from the prevalence in the general population. Raynaud’s phenomenon should be considered when treating patients with CTS because of the possibility of coexistence and the similar symptoms of these two disorders

An attempt has been made to estimate the number of living people with skeletal dysplasias (osteochondrodysplasias) in Scotland, England and Wales, ascertained through five orthopaedic centres in different parts of Britain. Index patients and their affected relatives were sought and reassessed. Over the 30-year period between 1950 and 1979 inclusive a minimum prevalence was calculated (excluding stillbirths, perinatal deaths, and patients with chromosome anomalies, metabolic bone disease and short stature per se). The results indicate that there were in the community upwards of 10 000 individuals, at various ages over this period, with these largely genetic disorders. A more accurate estimate is of some 6000 of them requiring substantial orthopaedic care, and who were physically handicapped throughout life, about half of them severely so

Aims

We evaluated the short-term functional outcome and prevalence of bearing-specific generation of audible noise in 301 patients (336 hips) operated on with fourth generation (Delta) medium diameter head, ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) total hip arthroplasties (THAs).

We performed a retrospective examination of the anteroposterior pelvic CT scout views of 419 randomly selected patients between April 2004 and August 2009 in order to determine the prevalence of cam-type femoroacetabular deformity in the asymptomatic population. The CT scans had all been undertaken for conditions unrelated to disorders of the hip. The frequency of cam-type femoroacetabular deformity was assessed by measuring the α-angle of each hip on the anteroposterior images. The α-angles were classified according to the Copenhagen Osteoarthritis Study. Among 215 male hips (108 patients) the mean α-angle was 59.12° (37.75° to 103.50°). Of these, a total of 30 hips (13.95%) were defined as pathological, 32 (14.88%) as borderline and 153 (71.16%) as normal. Among 540 female hips (272 patients) the mean α-angle was 45.47° (34.75° to 87.00°), with 30 hips (5.56%) defined as pathological, 33 (6.11%) as borderline and 477 (88.33%) as normal. It appears that the cam-type femoroacetabular deformity is not rare among the asymptomatic population. These anatomical abnormalities, as determined by an increased α-angle, appear to be twice as frequent in men as in women. Although an association between osteoarthritis and femoroacetabular impingement is believed to exist, a long-term epidemiological study is needed to determine the natural history of these anatomical abnormalities.

We investigated the incidence of soft-tissue lesions after small head metal-on-metal total hip replacement (MoM THR). Between December 1993 and May 1999, 149 patients (195 hips) underwent primary cementless MoM THR.

During the follow-up period, three patients (five THRs) died and eight patients (14 THRs) were lost to follow-up. We requested that all patients undergo CT evaluation. After exclusion of five patients (six THRs) who had undergone a revision procedure, and 22 (28 THRs) who were unwilling to take part in this study, 111 patients (142 THRs) were evaluated. There were 63 men (88 THRs) and 48 women (54 THRs) with a mean age of 45.7 years (37 to 56) at the time of surgery. The mean follow-up was 15.4 years (13 to 19). A soft-tissue lesion was defined as an abnormal peri-prosthetic collection of fluid, solid lesion or asymmetrical soft-tissue mass.

At final follow-up, soft-tissue lesions were found in relation to 28 THRs (19.7%), including 25 solid and three cystic lesions. They were found in 20 men and eight women; 26 lesions were asymptomatic and two were symptomatic. The mean maximal diameter of the soft-tissue lesion was 42.3 mm (17 to 135). The relatively high rate of soft-tissue lesions observed with small head MoM THR remains a concern.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1594–9.

In about 50% of cases, osteonecrosis of the femoral head is known to occupy more than one site. There is controversy as to whether a single focus may increase in size. We have reviewed 606 consecutive femoral heads which had been surgically removed for osteonecrosis. Extension of osteonecrosis was observed in only two (0.3%) and was confirmed histopathologically by the enlargement of the necrotic segment beyond the repair zone formed for the primary necrosis into the adjacent, previously uninvolved bone. In both cases, the necrotic regions were wedge-shaped and occupied over 80% of the femoral head.

It appears that an increase in size is extremely rare and that osteonecrosis is due to a single event. Our findings may be of value in assessing the use of joint-salvage procedures for osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

We investigated 60 patients (89 feet) with a mean age of 64 years (61 to 67) treated for congenital clubfoot deformity, using standardised weight-bearing radiographs of both feet and ankles together with a functional evaluation. Talocalcaneal and talonavicular relationships were measured and the degree of osteo-arthritic change in the ankle and talonavicular joints was assessed. The functional results were evaluated using a modified Laaveg-Ponseti score. The talocalcaneal (TC) angles in the clubfeet were significantly lower in both anteroposterior (AP) and lateral projections than in the unaffected feet (p < 0.001 for both views). There was significant medial subluxation of the navicular in the clubfeet compared with the unaffected feet (p < 0.001). Severe osteoarthritis in the ankle joint was seen in seven feet (8%) and in the talonavicular joint in 11 feet (12%). The functional result was excellent or good (≥ 80 points) in 29 patients (48%), and fair or poor (< 80 points) in 31 patients (52%). Patients who had undergone few (0 to 1) surgical procedures had better functional outcomes than those who had undergone two or more procedures (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between the functional result and the degree of medial subluxation of the navicular (p < 0.001, r² = 0.164), the talocalcaneal angle on AP projection (p < 0.02, r2 = 0.025) and extent of osteoarthritis in the ankle joint (p < 0.001).

We conclude that poor functional outcome in patients with congenital clubfoot occurs more frequently in those with medial displacement of the navicular, osteoarthritis of the talonavicular and ankle joints, and a low talocalcaneal angle on the AP projection, and in patients who have undergone two or more surgical procedures. However, the ankle joint in these patients appeared relatively resistant to the development of osteoarthritis.

Aims. We investigated the prevalence of late developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), abduction bracing treatment, and surgical procedures performed following the implementation of universal ultrasound screening versus selective ultrasound screening programmes. Methods. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, OrthoSearch, and Web of Science from the date of inception of each database until 27 March 2022 was performed. The primary outcome of interest was the prevalence of late detection of DDH, diagnosed after three months. Secondary outcomes of interest were the prevalence of abduction bracing treatment and surgical procedures performed in childhood for dysplasia. Only studies describing the primary outcome of interest were included. Results. A total of 31 studies were identified, of which 13 described universal screening and 20 described selective screening. Two studies described both. The prevalence of late DDH was 0.10 per 1,000 live births (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.00 to 0.39) in the universal screening group and 0.45 per 1,000 live births (95% CI 0.31 to 0.61) in the selective screening group. Abduction bracing treatment was performed on 55.54 per 1,000 live births (95% CI 24.46 to 98.15) in the universal screening group versus 0.48 per 1,000 live births (95% CI 0.07 to 1.13) in the selective screening group. Both the universal and selective screening groups had a similar prevalence of surgical procedures in childhood for dysplasia being performed (0.48 (95% CI 0.32 to 0.63) vs 0.49 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.71) per 1,000 live births, respectively). Conclusion. Universal screening showed a trend towards lower prevalence of late DDH compared to selective screening. However, it was also associated with a significant increase in the prevalence of abduction bracing without a significant reduction in the prevalence of surgical procedures in childhood for dysplasia being performed. High-quality studies comparing both treatment methods are required, in addition to studies into the natural history of missed DDH. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(2):198–208

Aims. The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) associated with instability of the shoulder ranges between 4% and 60%. Articular cartilage is, however, routinely assessed in these patients using radiographs or scans (2D or 3D), with little opportunity to record early signs of cartilage damage. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and localization of chondral lesions and synovial damage in patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery for instablility of the shoulder, in order to classify them and to identify risk factors for the development of glenohumeral OA. Methods. A total of 140 shoulders in 140 patients with a mean age of 28.5 years (15 to 55), who underwent arthroscopic treatment for recurrent glenohumeral instability, were included. The prevalence and distribution of chondral lesions and synovial damage were analyzed and graded into stages according to the division of the humeral head and glenoid into quadrants. The following factors that might affect the prevalence and severity of chondral damage were recorded: sex, dominance, age, age at the time of the first dislocation, number of dislocations, time between the first dislocation and surgery, preoperative sporting activity, Beighton score, type of instability, and joint laxity. Results. A total of 133 patients (95%) had synovial or chondral lesions. At the time of surgery, shoulders were graded as having mild, moderate, and severe OA in 55 (39.2%), 72 (51.4%), and six (4.2%) patients, respectively. A Hill-Sachs lesion and fibrillation affecting the anteroinferior glenoid cartilage were the most common findings. There was a significant positive correlation between the the severity of the development of glenohumeral OA and the patient’s age, their age at the time of the first dislocation, and the number of dislocations (p = 0.004, p = 0.011, and p = 0.031, respectively). Conclusion. Synovial inflammation and chondral damage associated with instability of the shoulder are more prevalent than previously reported. The classification using quadrants gives surgeons more information about the chondral damage, and could explain the pattern of development of glenohumeral OA after stabilization of the shoulder. As the number of dislocations showed a positive correlation with the development of OA, this might be an argument for early stabilization. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(10):1125–1132

Aims. Spinopelvic pathology increases the risk for instability following total hip arthroplasty (THA), yet few studies have evaluated how pathology varies with age or sex. The aims of this study were: 1) to report differences in spinopelvic parameters with advancing age and between the sexes; and 2) to determine variation in the prevalence of THA instability risk factors with advancing age. Methods. A multicentre database with preoperative imaging for 15,830 THA patients was reviewed. Spinopelvic parameter measurements were made by experienced engineers, including anterior pelvic plane tilt (APPT), spinopelvic tilt (SPT), sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), and pelvic incidence (PI). Lumbar flexion (LF), sagittal spinal deformity, and hip user index (HUI) were calculated using parameter measurements. Results. With advancing age, patients demonstrate increased posterior APPT, decreased standing LL, decreased LF, higher pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch, higher prevalence of abnormal spinopelvic mobility, and higher HUI percentage. With each decade, APPT progressed posteriorly 2.1°, LF declined 6.0°, PI-LL mismatch increased 2.9°, and spinopelvic mobility increased 3.8°. Significant differences were found between the sexes for APPT, SPT, SS, LL, and LF, but were not felt to be clinically relevant. Conclusion. With advancing age, spinopelvic biomechanics demonstrate decreased spinal mobility and increased pelvic/hip mobility. Surgeons should consider the higher prevalence of instability risk factors in elderly patients and anticipate changes evolving in spinopelvic biomechanics for young patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(8):792–801

Aims. The prevalence of scoliosis is not known in patients with idiopathic short stature, and the impact of treatment with recombinant human growth hormone on those with scoliosis remains controversial. We investigated the prevalence of scoliosis radiologically in children with idiopathic short stature, and the impact of treatment with growth hormone in a cross-sectional and retrospective cohort study. Methods. A total of 2,053 children with idiopathic short stature and 4,106 age- and sex-matched (1:2) children without short stature with available whole-spine radiographs were enrolled in the cross-sectional study. Among them, 1,056 with idiopathic short stature and 790 controls who had radiographs more than twice were recruited to assess the development and progression of scoliosis, and the need for bracing and surgery. Results. In the cross-sectional study, there was an unexpectedly higher prevalence of scoliosis (33.1% (681/2,053) vs 8.52% (350/4,106)) in children with idiopathic short stature compared with controls (odds ratio 3.722; p < 0.001), although most cases were mild. In the longitudinal study, children with idiopathic short stature had a higher risk of the development and progression of scoliosis than the controls. Among children with idiopathic short stature without scoliosis at baseline, treatment with growth hormone significantly increased the risk of developing scoliosis (p = 0.015) and the need for bracing (p < 0.001). Among those with idiopathic short stature and scoliosis at baseline, treatment with growth hormone did not increase the risk of progression of the scoliosis, the need for bracing, or surgery. Conclusion. The impact of treatment with growth hormone on scoliosis in children with idiopathic short stature was considered controllable. However, physicians should pay close attention to the assessment of spinal curves in these children. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(4):439–448

Aims. The outcomes of patients with unexpected positive cultures (UPCs) during revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remain unknown. The objectives of this study were to establish the prevalence and infection-free implant survival in UPCs during presumed aseptic single-stage revision THA and TKA at mid-term follow-up. Methods. This study included 297 patients undergoing presumed aseptic single-stage revision THA or TKA at a single treatment centre. All patients with at least three UPCs obtained during revision surgery were treated with minimum three months of oral antibiotics following revision surgery. The prevalence of UPCs and causative microorganisms, the recurrence of periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), and the infection-free implant survival were established at minimum five years’ follow-up (5.1 to 12.3). Results. Of the 297 patients undergoing aseptic revisions, 37 (12.5%) had at least three UPCs obtained during surgery. The UPC cohort included 23 males (62.2%) and 14 females (37.8%), with a mean age of 71.2 years (47 to 82). Comorbidities included smoking (56.8%), hypertension (48.6%), diabetes mellitus (27.0%), and chronic renal impairment (13.5%). The causative microorganisms included Staphylococcus epidermidis (49.6%), Bacillus species (18.9%), Micrococcus species (16.2%), and Cutibacterium acnes (16.2%). None of the study patients with UPCs developed further PJIs or required further surgical intervention during follow-up. Conclusion. The prevalence of UPCs during presumed aseptic revision THA and TKA was 12.5%. The most common causative microorganisms were of low virulence, and included S. epidermidis, Bacillus species, Micrococcus species, and C. acnes. Microorganism-specific antibiotic treatment for minimum three months’ duration of UPCs in presumed aseptic revision arthroplasty was associated with excellent infection-free implant survival at mid-term follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(10):832–836

Aims. The purpose of this study is to determine an individual’s age-specific prevalence of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after cruciate ligament surgery, and to identify clinical and genetic risk factors associated with undergoing TKA. Methods. This study was a retrospective case-control study using the UK Biobank to identify individuals reporting a history of cruciate ligament surgery. Data from verbal history and procedural codes recorded through the NHS were used to identify instances of TKA. Patient clinical and genetic data were used to identify risk factors for progression from cruciate ligament surgery to TKA. Individuals without a history of cruciate ligament reconstruction were used for comparison. Results. A total of 2,576 individuals with a history of cruciate ligament surgery were identified, with 290 (11.25%) undergoing TKA. In patients with prior cruciate ligament surgery, prevalence of TKA was 0.75% at age 45 years, 9.10% at age 65 years, and 20.43% at age 80 years. Patients with prior cruciate ligament surgery were 4.6 times more likely to have undergone TKA by age 55 years than individuals without prior cruciate ligament surgery. In the cruciate ligament surgery cohort, BMI > 30 kg/m. 2. (odds ratio (OR) 4.01 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.74 to 5.87)), a job that always involved heavy manual or physical labour (OR 2.72 (95% CI 1.57 to 4.71)), or a job that always involved walking and standing (OR 2.58 (95% CI 1.58 to 4.20)) were associated with greater TKA odds. No single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was associated with risk of TKA following cruciate ligament surgery. Conclusion. Patients with a history of prior cruciate ligament surgery have substantially higher risk of TKA and undergo arthroplasty at a relatively younger age than individuals without a history of prior cruciate ligament surgery. Physically demanding work and obesity were associated with higher odds of TKA after cruciate ligament surgery, but no SNP was associated with risk of TKA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(3):249–255

Aims. Delirium is associated with adverse outcomes following hip fracture, but the prevalence and significance of delirium for the prognosis and ongoing rehabilitation needs of patients admitted from home is less well studied. Here, we analyzed relationships between delirium in patients admitted from home with 1) mortality; 2) total length of hospital stay; 3) need for post-acute inpatient rehabilitation; and 4) hospital readmission within 180 days. Methods. This observational study used routine clinical data in a consecutive sample of hip fracture patients aged ≥ 50 years admitted to a single large trauma centre during the COVID-19 pandemic between 1 March 2020 and 30 November 2021. Delirium was prospectively assessed as part of routine care by the 4 A’s Test (4AT), with most assessments performed in the emergency department. Associations were determined using logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation quintile, COVID-19 infection within 30 days, and American Society of Anesthesiologists grade. Results. A total of 1,821 patients were admitted, with 1,383 (mean age 79.5 years; 72.1% female) directly from home. Overall, 87 patients (4.8%) were excluded due to missing 4AT scores. Delirium prevalence in the whole cohort was 26.5% (460/1,734): 14.1% (189/1,340) in the subgroup of patients admitted from home, and 68.8% (271/394) in the remaining patients (comprising care home residents and inpatients when fracture occurred). In patients admitted from home, delirium was associated with a 20-day longer total length of stay (p < 0.001). In multivariable analyses, delirium was associated with higher mortality at 180 days (odds ratio (OR) 1.69 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13 to 2.54); p = 0.013), requirement for post-acute inpatient rehabilitation (OR 2.80 (95% CI 1.97 to 3.96); p < 0.001), and readmission to hospital within 180 days (OR 1.79 (95% CI 1.02 to 3.15); p = 0.041). Conclusion. Delirium affects one in seven patients with a hip fracture admitted directly from home, and is associated with adverse outcomes in these patients. Delirium assessment and effective management should be a mandatory part of standard hip fracture care. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(6):447–456

Aims. Radiological residual acetabular dysplasia (RAD) has been reported in up to 30% of children who had successful brace treatment of infant developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Predicting those who will resolve and those who may need corrective surgery is important to optimize follow-up protocols. In this study we have aimed to identify the prevalence and predictors of RAD at two years and five years post-bracing. Methods. This was a single-centre, prospective longitudinal cohort study of infants with DDH managed using a published, standardized Pavlik harness protocol between January 2012 and December 2016. RAD was measured at two years’ mean follow-up using acetabular index-lateral edge (AI-L) and acetabular index-sourcil (AI-S), and at five years using AI-L, AI-S, centre-edge angle (CEA), and acetabular depth ratio (ADR). Each hip was classified based on published normative values for normal, borderline (1 to 2 standard deviations (SDs)), or dysplastic (> 2 SDs) based on sex, age, and laterality. Results. Of 202 infants who completed the protocol, 181 (90%) had two and five years’ follow-up radiographs. At two years, in 304 initially pathological hips, the prevalence of RAD (dysplastic) was 10% and RAD (borderline) was 30%. At five years, RAD (dysplastic) decreased to 1% to 3% and RAD (borderline) decreased to < 1% to 2%. On logistic regression, no variables were predictive of RAD at two years. Only AI-L at two years was predictive of RAD at five years (p < 0.001). If both hips were normal at two years’ follow-up (n = 96), all remained normal at five years. In those with bilateral borderline hips at two years (n = 21), only two were borderline at five years, none were dysplastic. In those with either borderline-dysplastic or bilateral dysplasia at two years (n = 26), three (12%) were dysplastic at five years. Conclusion. The majority of patients with RAD at two years post-brace treatment, spontaneously resolved by five years. Therefore, children with normal radiographs at two years post-brace treatment can be discharged. Targeted follow-up for those with abnormal AI-L at two years will identify the few who may benefit from surgical correction at five years’ follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(7):744–750

Aims. The underlying natural history of suspected scaphoid fractures (SSFs) is unclear and assumed poor. There is an urgent requirement to develop the literature around SSFs to quantify the actual prevalence of intervention following SSF. Defining the risk of intervention following SSF may influence the need for widespread surveillance and screening of SSF injuries, and could influence medicolegal actions around missed scaphoid fractures. Methods. Data on SSF were retrospectively gathered from virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) across a large Scottish Health Board over a four-year period, from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021. The Bluespier Electronic Patient Record System identified any surgical procedure being undertaken in relation to a scaphoid injury over the same time period. Isolating patients who underwent surgical intervention for SSF was performed by cross-referencing the unique patient Community Health Index number for patients who underwent these scaphoid procedures with those seen at VFCs for SSF over this four-year period. Results. In total, 1,739 patients were identified as having had a SSF. Five patients (0.28%) underwent early open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). One patient (0.06%) developed a nonunion and underwent ORIF with bone grafting. All six patients undergoing surgery were male (p = 0.005). The overall rate of intervention following a SSF was 0.35%. The early intervention rate in those undergoing primary MRI was one (0.36%), compared with three in those without (0.27%) (p > 0.576). Conclusion. Surgical intervention was rare following a SSF and was not required in females. A primary MRI policy did not appear to be associated with any change in primary or secondary intervention. These data are the first and largest in recent literature to quantify the prevalence of surgical intervention following a SSF, and may be used to guide surveillance and screening pathways as well as define medicolegal risk involved in missing a true fracture in SSFs. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(4):312–316

Aims. The risk factors for recurrent instability (RI) following a primary traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation (PTASD) remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine the rate of RI in a large cohort of patients managed nonoperatively after PTASD and to develop a clinical prediction model. Methods. A total of 1,293 patients with PTASD managed nonoperatively were identified from a trauma database (mean age 23.3 years (15 to 35); 14.3% female). We assessed the prevalence of RI, and used multivariate regression modelling to evaluate which demographic- and injury-related factors were independently predictive for its occurrence. Results. The overall rate of RI at a mean follow-up of 34.4 months (SD 47.0) was 62.8% (n = 812), with 81.0% (n = 658) experiencing their first recurrence within two years of PTASD. The median time for recurrence was 9.8 months (IQR 3.9 to 19.4). Independent predictors increasing risk of RI included male sex (p < 0.001), younger age at PTASD (p < 0.001), participation in contact sport (p < 0.001), and the presence of a bony Bankart (BB) lesion (p = 0.028). Greater tuberosity fracture (GTF) was protective (p < 0.001). However, the discriminative ability of the resulting predictive model for two-year risk of RI was poor (area under the curve (AUC) 0.672). A subset analysis excluding identifiable radiological predictors of BB and GTF worsened the predictive ability (AUC 0.646). Conclusion. This study clarifies the prevalence and risk factors for RI following PTASD in a large, unselected patient cohort. Although these data permitted the development of a predictive tool for RI, its discriminative ability was poor. Predicting RI remains challenging, and as-yet-undetermined risk factors may be important in determining the risk. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(10):1111–1117

Aims. Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the biggest communicable causes of mortality worldwide. While incidence in the UK has continued to fall since 2011, Bradford retains one of the highest TB rates in the UK. This study aims to examine the local disease burden of musculoskeletal (MSK) TB, by analyzing common presenting factors within the famously diverse population of Bradford. Methods. An observational study was conducted, using data from the Bradford Teaching Hospitals TB database of patients with a formal diagnosis of MSK TB between January 2005 and July 2017. Patient data included demographic data (including nationality/date of entry to the UK), disease focus, microbiology, and management strategies. Disease incidence was calculated using population data from the Office for National Statistics. Poisson confidence intervals were calculated to demonstrate the extent of statistical error. Disease incidence and nationality were also analyzed, and correlation sought, using the chi-squared test. Results. Between January 2005 and July 2017, 109 cases of MSK TB were diagnosed in Bradford. Mean incidence was 1.65 per 100,000 population, per calendar year (SD 0.75). A total of 38 cases required surgical intervention. Low rates of antimicrobial resistance were encountered. A low rate of loss to follow-up was observed (four patients; 3.7%). Overall, 94.5% of patients (n = 103) were successfully treated. 67% of patients (n = 73) reported their country of origin as either India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh. These ethnicities account for around 25% of the local population. Conclusion. Bradford maintains a high prevalence of MSK TB infection relative to national data; the prevalence within the local immigrant population remains grossly disproportionate. Typical associated factors (HIV/hepatitis coinfection, drug resistance), have only modest prevalence in our dataset. However, local socioeconomic factors such as deprivation and poverty appear germane as suggested by global literature. We advocate a high degree of suspicion in treatment of atypical infection in any area with similar population factors to ensure timely diagnosis. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(5):432–440

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of depressive and anxiety disorders prior to total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and to assess their impact on the rates of any infection, revision, or reoperation. Methods. Between January 2000 and March 2019, 21,469 primary and revision arthroplasties (10,011 THAs; 11,458 TKAs), which were undertaken in 15,504 patients at a single academic medical centre, were identified from a 27-county linked electronic medical record (EMR) system. Depressive and anxiety disorders were identified by diagnoses in the EMR or by using a natural language processing program with subsequent validation from review of the medical records. Patients with mental health diagnoses other than anxiety or depression were excluded. Results. Depressive and/or anxiety disorders were common before THA and TKA, with a prevalence of 30% in those who underwent primary THA, 33% in those who underwent revision THA, 32% in those who underwent primary TKA, and 35% in those who underwent revision TKA. The presence of depressive or anxiety disorders was associated with a significantly increased risk of any infection (primary THA, hazard ratio (HR) 1.5; revision THA, HR 1.9; primary TKA, HR 1.6; revision TKA, HR 1.8), revision (THA, HR 1.7; TKA, HR 1.6), re-revision (THA, HR 2.0; TKA, HR 1.6), and reoperation (primary THA, HR 1.6; revision THA, HR 2.2; primary TKA, HR 1.4; revision TKA, HR 1.9; p < 0.03 for all). Patients with preoperative depressive and/or anxiety disorders were significantly less likely to report “much better” joint function after primary THA (78% vs 87%) and primary TKA (86% vs 90%) compared with those without these disorders at two years postoperatively (p < 0.001 for all). Conclusion. The presence of depressive or anxiety disorders prior to primary or revision THA and TKA is common, and associated with a significantly higher risk of infection, revision, reoperation, and dissatisfaction. This topic deserves further study, and surgeons may consider mental health optimization to be of similar importance to preoperative variables such as diabetic control, prior to arthroplasty. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(5):526–533

Aims. Although lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are well-documented, few large-scale studies have investigated thoracolumbar transitional vertebrae (TLTV) and spinal numerical variants. This study sought to establish the prevalence of numerical variants and to evaluate their relationship with clinical problems. Methods. A total of 1,179 patients who had undergone thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic CT scanning were divided into groups according to the number of thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, and the presence or absence of TLTV or LSTV. The prevalence of spinal anomalies was noted. The relationship of spinal anomalies to clinical symptoms (low back pain, Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) and degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) was also investigated. Results. Normal vertebral morphology (12 thoracic and five lumbar vertebrae without TLTV and LSTV) was present in 531 male (76.7%) and 369 female patients (75.8%). Thoracolumbar transitional vertebrae were present in 15.8% of males and 16.0% of females. LSTV were present in 7.1% of males and 9.0% of females. The prevalence of the anomaly of 16 presacral mobile vertebrae (total number of thoracolumbar vertebrae and TLTV) without LSTV was 1.0% in males and 4.1% in females, and that of the anomaly of 18 vertebrae without LSTV was 5.3% in males and 1.2% in females. The prevalence of DS was significantly higher in females with a total of 16 vertebrae than in those with normal morphology. There was no significant correlation between a spinal anomaly and clinical symptoms. Conclusion. Overall, 24% of subjects had anomalies in the thoracolumbar region: the type of anomaly differed between males and females, which could have significant implications for spinal surgery. A decreased number of vertebrae was associated with DS: numerical variants may potentially be a clinical problem. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1301–1308

Aims. Limb-lengthening nails have largely replaced external fixation in limb-lengthening and reconstructive surgery. However, the adverse events and high prevalence of radiological changes recently noted with the STRYDE lengthening nail have raised concerns about the use of internal lengthening nails. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of radiological bone abnormalities between STRYDE, PRECICE, and FITBONE nails prior to nail removal. Methods. This was a retrospective case series from three centres. Patients were included if they had either of the three limb-lengthening nails (STYDE, PRECICE, or FITBONE) removed. Standard orthogonal radiographs immediately prior to nail removal were examined for bone abnormalities at the junction of the telescoping nail parts. Results. In total, 306 patients (168 male, 138 female) had 366 limb-lengthening nails removed. The mean time from nail insertion to radiological evaluation was 434 days (36 to 3,015). Overall, 77% of STRYDE nails (20/26) had bone abnormalities at the interface compared with only 2% of FITBONE (4/242) and 1% of PRECICE nails (1/98; p < 0.001). Focal osteolysis in conjunction with periosteal reaction at the telescoping interface was only observed in STRYDE nails. Conclusion. Bone abnormalities at the interface of telescoping nail parts were seen in the majority of STRYDE nails, but only very rarely with FITBONE or PRECICE nails. We conclude that the low prevalence of radiological changes at the junctional interface of 242 FITBONE and 98 PRECICE nails at the time of nail removal does not warrant clinical concerns. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(11):1731–1735

The October 2024 Arthroplasty Roundup. 360. looks at: Breaking the mould: female representation in arthroplasty surgery remains low, with elbow leading the way; Post COVID-19: where are we with the 'catch up' in England and Wales?; Prevalence and clinical impact of sarcopenia in patients undergoing total joint replacement: a systematic review and a meta-analysis; Total joint replacement and sleep: the state of the evidence

The April 2024 Research Roundup. 360. looks at: Prevalence and characteristics of benign cartilaginous tumours of the shoulder joint; Is total-body MRI useful as a screening tool to rule out malignant progression in patients with multiple osteochondromas?; Effects of vancomycin and tobramycin on compressive and tensile strengths of antibiotic bone cement: a biomechanical study; Biomarkers for early detection of Charcot arthropathy; Strong association between growth hormone therapy and proximal tibial physeal avulsion fractures in children and adolescents; UK pregnancy in orthopaedics (UK-POP): a cross-sectional study of UK female trauma and orthopaedic surgeons and their experiences of pregnancy; Does preoperative weight loss change the risk of adverse outcomes in total knee arthroplasty by initial BMI classification?

The February 2024 Knee Roundup. 360. looks at: Do patients with hypoallergenic total knee arthroplasty implants for metal allergy do worse? An analysis of healthcare utilizations and patient-reported outcome measures; Defining a successful total knee arthroplasty; Incidence, microbiological studies, and factors associated with periprosthetic joint infection after total knee arthroplasty; A modified Delphi consensus statement on patellar instability; Cause for concern? Significant cement coverage in retrieved metaphyseal cones after revision total knee arthroplasty; Prevalence of post-traumatic osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament injury remains high despite advances in surgical techniques; Cost-effectiveness of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy versus physical therapy for traumatic meniscal tears in patients aged under 45 years

The October 2024 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup. 360. looks at: Cost-effectiveness analysis of soft bandage and immediate discharge versus rigid immobilization in children with distal radius torus fractures: the FORCE trial; Percutaneous Achilles tendon tenotomy in clubfoot with a blade or a needle: a single-centre randomized controlled noninferiority trial; Treatment of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy: a five-year comparison of proximal femoral osteotomy and combined femoral-pelvic osteotomy in 163 children; The Core outcome Clubfoot (CoCo) study: relapse, with poorer clinical and quality of life outcomes, affects 37% of idiopathic clubfoot patients; Retention versus removal of epiphyseal screws in paediatric distal tibial fractures: no significant impact on outcomes; Predicting the resolution of residual acetabular dysplasia after brace treatment in infant DDH; Low prevalence of acetabular dysplasia following treatment for neonatal hip instability: a long-term study; How best to distract the patient?

The December 2024 Children’s orthopaedics Roundup. 360. looks at: Establishing best practice for managing idiopathic toe walking in children: a UK consensus; Long-term outcomes of below-elbow casting in paediatric diaphyseal forearm fractures; Residual dysplasia risk persists in developmental dysplasia of the hip patients after Pavlik harness treatment; 3D printing in paediatricorthopaedics: enhancing surgical efficiency and patient outcomes; Pavlik harness treatment for hip dysplasia does not delay motor skill development in children; High prevalence of hip dysplasia found in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis on routine spine radiographs; Minifragment plates as effective growth modulation for ulnar deformities of the distal radius in children; Long-term success of Chiari pelvic osteotomy in preserving hip function: 30-year follow-up study

The April 2024 Shoulder & Elbow Roundup. 360. looks at: Acute rehabilitation following traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation (ARTISAN): pragmatic, multicentre, randomized controlled trial; Prevalence and predisposing factors of neuropathic pain in patients with rotator cuff tears; Are two plates better than one? The clavicle fracture reimagined; A single cell atlas of frozen shoulder capsule identifies features associated with inflammatory fibrosis resolution; Complication rates and deprivation go hand in hand with total shoulder arthroplasty; Longitudinal instability injuries of the forearm; A better than “best-fit circle” method for glenoid bone loss assessment; 3D supraspinatus muscle volume and intramuscular fatty infiltration after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of the tapered cone stem in total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with excessive femoral anteversion and after femoral osteotomy. Methods. We included patients who underwent THA using Wagner Cone due to proximal femur anatomical abnormalities between August 2014 and January 2019 at a single institution. We investigated implant survival time using the endpoint of dislocation and revision, and compared the prevalence of prosthetic impingements between the Wagner Cone, a tapered cone stem, and the Taperloc, a tapered wedge stem, through simulation. We also collected Oxford Hip Score (OHS), visual analogue scale (VAS) satisfaction, and VAS pain by postal survey in August 2023 and explored variables associated with those scores. Results. Of the 58 patients (62 hips), two (two hips) presented with dislocation or reoperation, and Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated a five-year survival rate of 96.7% (95% CI 92.4 to 100). Mean stem anteversion was 35.2° (SD 18.2°) for the Taperloc stem and 29.8° (SD 7.9°) for the Wagner Cone stem; mean reduction from Taperloc to Wagner Cone was 5.4° (SD 18.8°). Overall, 55 hips (52 patients) were simulated, and the prevalence of prosthetic impingement was lower for the Wagner Cone (5.5%, 3/55) compared with the Taperloc (20.0%, 11/55) stem, with an odds ratio of 0.20 (p = 0.038). Among the 33 respondents to the postal survey (36 hips), the mean scores were VAS pain 10.9, VAS satisfaction 86.9, and OHS 44.7. A multivariable analysis revealed that reduction of stem anteversion from Taperloc to Wagner Cone was more favourable for VAS pain (p = 0.029) and VAS satisfaction (p = 0.002). Conclusion. The mid-term survival rate for THA using the Wagner Cone stem was high, which may be supported by a reduction in prosthetic impingement. The reduction in excessive stem anteversion by using a tapered cone stem was associated with reduced pain and increased patient satisfaction. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(10):858–867

Aims. Symptomatic spinal stenosis is a very common problem, and decompression surgery has been shown to be superior to nonoperative treatment in selected patient groups. However, performing an instrumented fusion in addition to decompression may avoid revision and improve outcomes. The aim of the SpInOuT feasibility study was to establish whether a definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT) that accounted for the spectrum of pathology contributing to spinal stenosis, including pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch and mobile spondylolisthesis, could be conducted. Methods. As part of the SpInOuT-F study, a pilot randomized trial was carried out across five NHS hospitals. Patients were randomized to either spinal decompression alone or spinal decompression plus instrumented fusion. Patient-reported outcome measures were collected at baseline and three months. The intended sample size was 60 patients. Results. Of the 90 patients screened, 77 passed the initial screening criteria. A total of 27 patients had a PI-LL mismatch and 23 had a dynamic spondylolisthesis. Following secondary inclusion and exclusion criteria, 31 patients were eligible for the study. Six patients were randomized and one underwent surgery during the study period. Given the low number of patients recruited and randomized, it was not possible to assess completion rates, quality of life, imaging, or health economic outcomes as intended. Conclusion. This study provides a unique insight into the prevalence of dynamic spondylolisthesis and PI-LL mismatch in patients with symptomatic spinal stenosis, and demonstrates that there is a need for a definitive RCT which stratifies for these groups in order to inform surgical decision-making. Nonetheless a definitive study would need further refinement in design and implementation in order to be feasible. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(8):573–579

Aims. Slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) has well documented biochemical and mechanical risk factors. Femoral and acetabular morphologies seem to be equally important. Acetabular retroversion has a low prevalence in asymptomatic adults. Hips with dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and Perthes’ disease, however, have higher rates, ranging from 18% to 48%. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of acetabular retroversion in patients presenting with SUFE using both validated radiological signs and tomographical measurements. Methods. A retrospective review of all SUFE surgical cases presenting to the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, from 2012 to 2019 were evaluated. Preoperative plain radiographs were assessed for slip angle, validated radiological signs of retroversion, and standardized postoperative CT scans were used to assess cranial and mid-acetabular version. Results. In all, 116 SUFEs presented in 107 patients who underwent surgical intervention; 47 (52%) were male, with a mean age of 12.7 years (7.5 to 16.6). Complete radiological data was available for 91 patients (99 hips) with adequate axial CT imaging of both hips. Overall, 82 patients (82%) underwent pinning in situ (PIS), with subcapital realignment surgery (SRS) performed in 17 patients (18%) (slip angles > 75°). Contralateral prophylactic PIS was performed in 72 patients (87%). On the slip side, 62 patients (68%) had one or more radiological sign of retroversion. Tomographical acetabular retroversion was more pronounced cranially than caudally of the acetabulum on both the affected side and the contralateral side (p < 0.001) as expected in the normal population. Increasing severity of the slip was found to be directly proportional to the degree of reduction in cranial and central acetabular version (p < 0.05) in the SUFE hips. Conclusion. Acetabular retroversion is more prevalent in patients with SUFE than previously reported, and have been shown be correlated to the severity of the slip presentation. The presence of radiological signs of acetabular retroversion could be used to justify prophylactic contralateral pinning. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(2):158–164

Aims. The aims of this study were to describe the epidemiology of metacarpal shaft fractures (MSFs), assess variation in treatment and complications following standard care, document hospital resource use, and explore factors associated with treatment modality. Methods. A multicentre, cross-sectional retrospective study of MSFs at six centres in the UK. We collected and analyzed healthcare records, operative notes, and radiographs of adults presenting within ten days of a MSF affecting the second to fifth metacarpal between 1 August 2016 and 31 July 2017. Total emergency department (ED) attendances were used to estimate prevalence. Results. A total of 793 patients (75% male, 25% female) with 897 MSFs were included, comprising 0.1% of 837,212 ED attendances. The annual incidence of MSF was 40 per 100,000. The median age was 27 years (IQR 21 to 41); the highest incidence was in men aged 16 to 24 years. Transverse fractures were the most common. Over 80% of all fractures were treated non-surgically, with variation across centres. Overall, 12 types of non-surgical and six types of surgical treatment were used. Fracture pattern, complexity, displacement, and age determined choice of treatment. Patients who were treated surgically required more radiographs and longer radiological and outpatient follow-up, and were more likely to be referred for therapy. Complications occurred in 5% of patients (39/793). Most patients attended planned follow-up, with 20% (160/783) failing to attend at least one or more clinic appointments. Conclusion. MSFs are common hand injuries among young, working (economically active) men, but there is considerable heterogeneity in treatment, rehabilitation, and resource use. They are a burden on healthcare resources and society, thus further research is needed to optimize treatment. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(8):652–661

Aims. Brace treatment is the cornerstone of managing developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), yet there is a lack of evidence-based treatment protocols, which results in wide variations in practice. To resolve this, we have developed a comprehensive nonoperative treatment protocol conforming to published consensus principles, with well-defined a priori criteria for inclusion and successful treatment. Methods. This was a single-centre, prospective, longitudinal cohort study of a consecutive series of infants with ultrasound-confirmed DDH who underwent a comprehensive nonoperative brace management protocol in a unified multidisciplinary clinic between January 2012 and December 2016 with five-year follow-up radiographs. The radiological outcomes were acetabular index-lateral edge (AI-L), acetabular index-sourcil (AI-S), centre-edge angle (CEA), acetabular depth ratio (ADR), International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) grade, and evidence of avascular necrosis (AVN). At five years, each hip was classified as normal (< 1 SD), borderline dysplastic (1 to 2 SDs), or dysplastic (> 2 SDs) based on validated radiological norm-referenced values. Results. Of 993 infants assessed clinically and sonographically, 21% (212 infants, 354 abnormal hips) had DDH and were included. Of these, 95% (202 infants, 335 hips) successfully completed bracing, and 5% (ten infants, 19 hips) failed bracing due to irreducible hip(s). The success rate of bracing for unilateral dislocations was 88% (45/51 infants) and for bilateral dislocations 83% (20/24 infants). The femoral nerve palsy rate was 1% (2/212 infants). At five-year follow-up (mean 63 months (SD 5.9; 49 to 83)) the prevalence of residual dysplasia after successful brace treatment was 1.6% (5/312 hips). All hips were IHDI grade I and none had AVN. Four children (4/186; 2%) subsequently underwent surgery for residual dysplasia. Conclusion. Our comprehensive protocol for nonoperative treatment of infant DDH has shown high rates of success and extremely low rates of residual dysplasia at a mean age of five years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(8):935–942

Aims. Healthcare systems have been rapidly restructured to meet COVID-19 demand. Clinicians are working to novel clinical guidelines, treating new patient cohorts and working in unfamiliar environments. Trauma and orthopaedics (T&O) has experienced cancellation of routine clinics and operating, with redistribution of the workload and human resources. To date, no studies have evaluated the mental health impact of these changes on the T&O workforce. We report the results of a novel survey on the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of our orthopaedic workforce and the contributory factors. Methods. A 20-question survey-based cross-sectional study of orthopaedic team members was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary objective was to identify the impact of the pandemic on mental health in the form of major depressive disorder (MDD) and general anxiety disorder (GAD). The survey incorporated the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-2), which is validated for screening of MDD, and the generalized anxiety disorder questionnaire (GAD-2), which is validated for screening of GAD. Results. There were 62 respondents (18 females and 44 males). As compared to the general population, we noted a greater estimated prevalence of GAD (17.7% vs 5.9%, p = 0.0009297) and MDD (19.4% vs 3.3%, p = 0.0000007731). The prevalence of MDD symptoms was greatest among senior house officers (SHOs) (p = 0.02216). Female respondents scored higher for symptoms of MDD (p = 0.03583) and GAD (p = 0.0001086). Those identifying as ‘Black, African, Caribbean or Black British’ displayed a higher prevalence of GAD symptoms (p = 0.001575) and felt least supported at work (p = 0.001341). Conclusion. Our study, in the first of its kind, shows a significant prevalence of GAD and MDD in the workforce. We found that SHOs, females and those of Black, African, Caribbean, or Black British origin were disproportionately affected. Action should be taken to help prevent adverse mental health outcomes for our colleagues during the pandemic. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-6:316–325

Aims. Early detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is associated with improved outcomes of conservative treatment. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a novel screening programme that included both the primary risk factors of breech presentation and family history, and the secondary risk factors of oligohydramnios and foot deformities. Methods. A five-year prospective registry study investigating every live birth in the study’s catchment area (n = 27,731), all of whom underwent screening for risk factors and examination at the newborn and six- to eight-week neonatal examination and review. DDH was diagnosed using ultrasonography and the Graf classification system, defined as grade IIb or above or rapidly regressing IIa disease (≥4. o. at four weeks follow-up). Multivariate odds ratios were calculated to establish significant association, and risk differences were calculated to provide quantifiable risk increase with DDH, positive predictive value was used as a measure of predictive efficacy. The cost-effectiveness of using these risk factors to predict DDH was evaluated using NHS tariffs (January 2021). Results. The prevalence of DDH that required treatment within our population was 5/1,000 live births. The rate of missed presentation of DDH was 0.43/1000 live births. Breech position, family history, oligohydramnios, and foot deformities demonstrated significant association with DDH (p < 0.0001). The presence of breech presentation increased the risk of DDH by 1.69% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93% to 2.45%), family history by 3.57% (95% CI 2.06% to 5.09%), foot deformities by 8.95% (95% CI 4.81% to 13.1%), and oligohydramnios nby 11.6% (95 % CI 3.0% to 19.0%). Primary risk factors family history and breech presentation demonstrated an estimated cost-per-case detection of £6,276 and £11,409, respectively. Oligohydramnios and foot deformities demonstrated a cost-per-case detected less than the cost of primary risk factors of £2,260 and £2,670, respectively. Conclusion. The inclusion of secondary risk factors within a national screening programme was clinically successful as they were more cost and resource-efficient predictors of DDH than primary risk factors, suggesting they should be considered in the national guidance. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(4):234–240

Aims. Large-diameter metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasty (THA) has demonstrated unexpected high failure rates and pseudotumour formation. The purpose of this prospective cohort study is to report ten-year results in order to establish revision rate, prevalence of pseudotumour formation, and relation with whole blood cobalt levels. Methods. All patients were recalled according to the guidelines of the Dutch Orthopaedic Association. They underwent clinical and radiographical assessments (radiograph and CT scan) of the hip prosthesis and whole blood cobalt ion measurements. Overall, 94 patients (95 hips) fulfilled our requirements for a minimum ten-year follow-up. Results. Mean follow-up was 10.9 years (10 to 12), with a cumulative survival rate of 82.4%. Reason for revision was predominantly pseudotumour formation (68%), apart from loosening, pain, infection, and osteolysis. The prevalence of pseudotumour formation around the prostheses was 41%, while our previous report of this cohort (with a mean follow-up of 3.6 years) revealed a 39% prevalence. The ten-year revision-free survival with pseudotumour was 66.7% and without pseudotumour 92.4% (p < 0.05). There was poor discriminatory ability for cobalt for pseudotumour formation. Conclusion. This prospective study reports a minimum ten-year follow-up of large-head MoM THA. Revision rates are high, with the main reason being the sequelae of pseudotumour formation, which were rarely observed after five years of implantation. Blood ion measurements show limited discriminatory capacity in diagnosing pseudotumour formation. Our results evidence that an early comprehensive follow-up strategy is essential for MoM THA to promptly identify and manage early complications and revise on time. After ten years follow-up, we do not recommend continuing routine CT scanning or whole cobalt blood measurements, but instead enrolling these patients in routine follow-up protocols for THA. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(1):61–67

Aims. The outcomes following nonoperative management of minimally displaced greater tuberosity (GT) fractures, and the factors which influence patient experience, remain poorly defined. We assessed the early patient-derived outcomes following these injuries and examined the effect of a range of demographic- and injury-related variables on these outcomes. Methods. In total, 101 patients (53 female, 48 male) with a mean age of 50.9 years (19 to 76) with minimally displaced GT fractures were recruited to a prospective observational cohort study. During the first year after injury, patients underwent experiential assessment using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and assessment of associated injuries using MRI performed within two weeks of injury. The primary outcome was the one-year DASH score. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the effect of patient demographic factors, complications, and associated injuries, on outcome. Results. The mean DASH score improved from 42.3 (SD 9.6) at six weeks post-injury, to 19.5 (SD 14.3) at one-year follow-up (p < 0.001), but outcomes were mixed, with 30 patients having a DASH score > 30 at one year. MRI revealed a range of associated injuries, with a full-thickness rotator cuff tear present in 19 patients (19%). Overall, 11 patients (11%) developed complications requiring further operative intervention; 20 patients (21%) developed post-traumatic secondary shoulder stiffness. Multivariate analysis revealed a high-energy mechanism (p = 0.009), tobacco consumption (p = 0.033), use of mobility aids (p = 0.047), a full-thickness rotator cuff tear (p = 0.002), and the development of post-traumatic secondary shoulder stiffness (p = 0.035) were independent predictors of poorer outcome. Conclusion. The results of nonoperative management of minimally displaced GT fractures are heterogeneous. While many patients have satisfactory early outcomes, a substantial subgroup fare much worse. There is a high prevalence of rotator cuff injuries and post-traumatic shoulder stiffness, and their presence is associated with poorer patient experience. Furthermore, patients who have a high-energy injury, smoke, or use walking aids, have worse outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(5):534–542

Aims. Our main aim was to describe the trend in the comorbidities of patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and knee arthroplasties (KAs) between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2018 in England. Methods. We combined data from the National Joint Registry (NJR) on primary elective hip and knee arthroplasties performed between 2005 and 2018 with pre-existing conditions recorded at the time of their primary operation from Hospital Episodes Statistics. We described the temporal trend in the number of comorbidities identified using the Charlson Comorbidity Index, and how this varied by age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, index of multiple deprivation, and type of KA. Results. We included 696,504 and 833,745 elective primary THAs and KAs respectively, performed for any indication. Between 2005 and 2018, the proportion of elective THA and KA patients with one or more comorbidity at the time of their operation increased substantially (THA: 20% to 38%, KA: 22% to 41%). This was driven by increases in four conditions: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (2018: ~17%), diabetes without complications (2018: THA 10%, KA 14%), myocardial infarction (2018: 4%), and renal disease (2018: ~8%). Notably, renal disease prevalence increased from < 1% in 2005 to ~8% in 2018. Conclusion. Between 2005 and 2018 there were significant changes in the number of comorbidities recorded in patients having elective primary THAs and KAs. Renal disease is now one of the most prevalent comorbidities in this patient population. Future research should explore whether this comorbidity trend has increased the burden on other medical specialities to optimize these patients before surgery and to provide additional postoperative care. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(9):1052–1059

Aims. The impact of concomitant injuries in patients with proximal femoral fractures has rarely been studied. To date, the few studies published have been mostly single-centre research focusing on the influence of upper limb fractures. A retrospective cohort analysis was, therefore, conducted to identify the impact and distribution of concomitant injuries in patients with proximal femoral fractures. Methods. A retrospective, multicentre registry-based study was undertaken. Between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2019, data for 24,919 patients from 100 hospitals were collected in the Registry for Geriatric Trauma. This information was queried and patient groups with and without concomitant injury were compared using linear and logistic regression models. In addition, we analyzed the influence of the different types of additional injuries. Results. A total of 22,602 patients met the inclusion criteria. The overall prevalence of a concomitant injury was 8.2% with a predominance of female patients (8.7% vs 6.9%; p < 0.001). Most common were fractures of the ipsilateral upper limb. Concomitant injuries resulted in prolonged time-to-surgery (by 3.4 hours (95 confidence interval (CI) 2.14 to 4.69)) and extended length of stay in hospital by 2.2 days (95% CI 1.74 to 2.61). Mortality during the admission was significantly higher in the concomitant injury group (7.4% vs 5.3%; p < 0.001). Additionally, walking ability and quality of life were reduced in these patients at discharge. More patients were discharged to a nursing home instead of their own home compared to patients without additional injuries (25.8% vs 30.3%; p < 0.001). Conclusion. With a prevalence of 8.2%, the appearance of a concomitant injury is common in elderly patients with hip fracture. These patients are at a greater risk for death during the admission, longer hospital stays, and delayed surgery. This knowledge is clinically important for all who are involved in the treatment of proximal femur fractures. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(9):1526–1533

Aims. Venous tumour thrombus (VTT) is a rare finding in osteosarcoma. Despite the high rate of VTT in osteosarcoma of the pelvis, there are very few descriptions of VTT associated with extrapelvic primary osteosarcoma. We therefore sought to describe the prevalence and presenting features of VTT in osteosarcoma of both the pelvis and the limbs. Methods. Records from a single institution were retrospectively reviewed for 308 patients with osteosarcoma of the pelvis or limb treated between January 2000 and December 2022. Primary lesions were located in an upper limb (n = 40), lower limb (n = 198), or pelvis (n = 70). Preoperative imaging and operative reports were reviewed to identify patients with thrombi in proximity to their primary lesion. Imaging and histopathology were used to determine presence of tumour within the thrombus. Results. Tumours abutted the blood vessels in 131 patients (43%) and encased the vessels in 30 (10%). Any form of venous thrombus was identified in 31 patients (10%). Overall, 21 of these thrombi were determined to be involved with the tumour based on imaging (n = 9) or histopathology (n = 12). The rate of VTT was 25% for pelvic osteosarcoma and 1.7% for limb osteosarcoma. The most common imaging features associated with histopathologically proven VTT were enhancement with contrast (n = 12; 100%), venous enlargement (n = 10; 83%), vessel encasement (n = 8; 66%), and visible intraluminal osteoid matrix (n = 6; 50%). Disease-specific survival (DSS) for patients with VTT was 95% at 12 months (95% CI 0.87 to 1.00), 50% at three years (95% CI 0.31 to 0.80), and 31% at five years (95% CI 0.14 to 0.71). VTT was associated with worse DSS (hazard ratio 2.3 (95% CI 1.11 to 4.84). Conclusion. VTT is rare with osteosarcoma and occurs more commonly in the pelvis than the limbs. Imaging features suggestive of VTT include enhancement with contrast, venous dilation, and vessel encasement. VTT portends a worse prognosis for patients with osteosarcoma, with a similar survivability to metastatic disease. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(8):865–870

Aims. Developmental cervical spinal stenosis (DcSS) is a well-known predisposing factor for degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) but there is a lack of consensus on its definition. This study aims to define DcSS based on MRI, and its multilevel characteristics, to assess the prevalence of DcSS in the general population, and to evaluate the presence of DcSS in the prediction of developing DCM. Methods. This cross-sectional study analyzed MRI spine morphological parameters at C3 to C7 (including anteroposterior (AP) diameter of spinal canal, spinal cord, and vertebral body) from DCM patients (n = 95) and individuals recruited from the general population (n = 2,019). Level-specific median AP spinal canal diameter from DCM patients was used to screen for stenotic levels in the population-based cohort. An individual with multilevel (≥ 3 vertebral levels) AP canal diameter smaller than the DCM median values was considered as having DcSS. The most optimal cut-off canal diameter per level for DcSS was determined by receiver operating characteristic analyses, and multivariable logistic regression was performed for the prediction of developing DCM that required surgery. Results. A total of 2,114 individuals aged 64.6 years (SD 11.9) who underwent surgery from March 2009 to December 2016 were studied. The most optimal cut-off canal diameters for DcSS are: C3 < 12.9 mm, C4 < 11.8 mm, C5 < 11.9 mm, C6 < 12.3 mm, and C7 < 13.3 mm. Overall, 13.0% (262 of 2,019) of the population-based cohort had multilevel DcSS. Multilevel DcSS (odds ratio (OR) 6.12 (95% CI 3.97 to 9.42); p < 0.001) and male sex (OR 4.06 (95% CI 2.55 to 6.45); p < 0.001) were predictors of developing DCM. Conclusion. This is the first MRI-based study for defining DcSS with multilevel canal narrowing. Level-specific cut-off canal diameters for DcSS can be used for early identification of individuals at risk of developing DCM. Individuals with DcSS at ≥ three levels and male sex are recommended for close monitoring or early intervention to avoid traumatic spinal cord injuries from stenosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(11):1333–1341

Aims. Nonagenarians (aged 90 to 99 years) have experienced the fastest percent decile population growth in the USA recently, with a consequent increase in the prevalence of nonagenarians living with joint arthroplasties. As such, the number of revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) in nonagenarians is expected to increase. We aimed to determine the mortality rate, implant survivorship, and complications of nonagenarians undergoing aseptic revision THAs and revision TKAs. Methods. Our institutional total joint registry was used to identify 96 nonagenarians who underwent 97 aseptic revisions (78 hips and 19 knees) between 1997 and 2018. The most common indications were aseptic loosening and periprosthetic fracture for both revision THAs and revision TKAs. Mean age at revision was 92 years (90 to 98), mean BMI was 27 kg/m. 2. (16 to 47), and 67% (n = 65) were female. Mean time between primary and revision was 18 years (SD 9). Kaplan-Meier survival was used for patient mortality, and compared to age- and sex-matched control populations. Reoperation risk was assessed using cumulative incidence with death as a competing risk. Mean follow-up was five years. Results. Mortality rates were 9%, 18%, 26%, and 62% at 90 days, one year, two years, and five years, respectively, but similar to control populations. There were 43 surgical complications and five reoperations, resulting in a cumulative incidence of reoperation of 4% at five years. Medical complications were common, with a cumulative incidence of 65% at 90 days. Revisions for periprosthetic fractures were associated with higher mortality and higher 90-day risk of medical complications compared to revisions for aseptic loosening. Conclusion. Contemporary revision THAs and TKAs appeared to be relatively safe in selected nonagenarians managed with multidisciplinary teams. Cause of revision affected morbidity and mortality risks. While early medical and surgical complications were frequent, they seldom resulted in reoperation. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(6):649–656

Aims. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and impact of tourniquet use in patients undergoing limb salvage surgery with endoprosthetic reconstruction for a tumour around the knee. Methods. We retrieved data from the Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery (PARITY) trial; specifically, differences in baseline characteristics, surgical details, and postoperative functional outcomes between patients who had undergone surgery under tourniquet and those who had not. A linear regression model was created to evaluate the impact of tourniquet use on postoperative Toronto Extremity Salvage Scores (TESSs) while controlling for confounding variables. A negative-binomial regression model was constructed to explore predictors of postoperative length of stay (LOS). Results. Of the 604 patients enrolled in the PARITY trial, 421 had tumours around the knee joint, of whom 225 (53%) underwent surgery under tourniquet. The tourniquet group was younger (p = 0.014), more likely to undergo surgery for a tumour of the tibia, and had shorter operating times by a mean of 50 minutes (95% confidence interval 30 to 72; p < 0.001). The adjusted linear regression model found that the use of a tourniquet, a shorter operating time, and a higher baseline TESS independently predicted better function at both three- and six-month follow-up. The negative-binomial regression model showed that tourniquet use, shorter operating time, younger age, and intraoperative tranexamic acid administration independently predicted a shorter LOS in hospital. Conclusion. The results of this study show that in patients undergoing resection of a tumour around the knee and endoprosthetic reconstruction, the use of an intraoperative tourniquet is associated with a shorter operating time, a reduced length of stay in hospital, and a better early functional outcome. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(10):1168–1173

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), defined by an age at presentation of 11 to 18 years, has a prevalence of 0.47% and accounts for approximately 90% of all cases of idiopathic scoliosis. Despite decades of research, the exact aetiology of AIS remains unknown. It is becoming evident that it is the result of a complex interplay of genetic, internal, and environmental factors. It has been hypothesized that genetic variants act as the initial trigger that allow epigenetic factors to propagate AIS, which could also explain the wide phenotypic variation in the presentation of the disorder. A better understanding of the underlying aetiological mechanisms could help to establish the diagnosis earlier and allow a more accurate prediction of deformity progression. This, in turn, would prompt imaging and therapeutic intervention at the appropriate time, thereby achieving the best clinical outcome for this group of patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(8):915–921

Aims. The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of hip displacement and dislocation in a total population of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Scotland before and after the initiation of a hip surveillance programme. Patients. A total of 2,155 children with CP are registered in the Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway Scotland (CPIPS) surveillance programme, which began in 2013. Physical examination and hip radiological data are collected according to nationally agreed protocols. Methods. Age, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, subtype of CP, migration percentage (MP), and details of hip surgery were analyzed for all children aged between two and 16 years taken from a time of census in March 2019 and compared to the same data from the initial registration of children in the CPIPS. Displacement of the hip was defined as a MP of between 40% and 99%, and dislocation as a MP of 100%. Results. A total of 1,646 children were available for analysis at the time of the census and 1,171 at their first registration in CPIPS. The distribution of age, sex, and GMFCS levels were similar in the two groups. The prevalence of displacement and dislocation of the hip before surveillance began were 10% (117/1,171) and 2.5% (29/1,171) respectively, and at the time of the census were 4.5% (74/1,646) and 1.3% (21/1,646), respectively. Dislocation was only seen in GMFCS levels IV and V and displacement seen in 90.5% (67/74) of these levels and 9.5% (7/74) in levels I to III. In total, 138 children had undergone hip surgery during the study period. The hip redisplaced after the initial surgery in 15 children; seven of these had undergone a second procedure and at the time of the census the hips in all seven had a MP < 40. Conclusion. Hip surveillance appears to be effective and has reduced the prevalence of hip displacement by over half and dislocation almost by half in these children. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(3):383–387

Aims. The risk to patients and healthcare workers of resuming elective orthopaedic surgery following the peak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has been difficult to quantify. This has prompted governing bodies to adopt a cautious approach that may be impractical and financially unsustainable. The lack of evidence has made it impossible for surgeons to give patients an informed perspective of the consequences of elective surgery in the presence of SARS-CoV-2. This study aims to determine, for the UK population, the probability of a patient being admitted with an undetected SARS-CoV-2 infection and their resulting risk of death; taking into consideration the current disease prevalence, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing, and preassessment pathway. Methods. The probability of SARS-CoV-2 infection with a false negative test was calculated using a lower-end RT-PCR sensitivity of 71%, specificity of 95%, and the UK disease prevalence of 0.24% reported in May 2020. Subsequently, a case fatality rate of 20.5% was applied as a worst-case scenario. Results. The probability of SARS-CoV-2 infection with a false negative preoperative test was 0.07% (around 1 in 1,400). The risk of a patient with an undetected infection being admitted for surgery and subsequently dying from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is estimated at approximately 1 in 7,000. However, if an estimate of the current global infection fatality rate (1.04%) is applied, the risk of death would be around 1 in 140,000, at most. This calculation does not take into account the risk of nosocomial infection. Conversely, it does not factor in that patients will also be clinically assessed and asked to self-isolate prior to surgery. Conclusion. Our estimation suggests that the risk of patients being inadvertently admitted with an undetected SARS-CoV-2 infection for elective orthopaedic surgery is relatively low. Accordingly, the risk of death following elective orthopaedic surgery is low, even when applying the worst-case fatality rate. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1256–1260

Aims. The aim of this study was to compare the osseous reactions elicited by all-suture, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and two different biodegradable anchors used during rotator cuff repair. Patients and Methods. Transosseous-equivalent rotator cuff repair was performed in 73 patients. The patients were divided into two groups, in both of which two different medial-row anchors were used. In group 1, anchor A comprised 30% β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) + 70% fast-absorbing poly lactic-co-glycolic acid copolymer (85% polylactic acid enantiomers + 15% polyglycolic acid) and anchor B comprised all-sutures. In group 2, anchor C comprised 23% micro β-TCP + 77% polylactic acid enantiomers and anchor D comprised PEEK polymer. There were 37 patients in group 1 and 36 patients in group 2. The presence and severity of fluid collection around anchors and healing of the rotator cuff were assessed using MRI scans, approximately one year postoperatively. The severity of the collection was graded as 0 (no perianchor fluid signal), 1 (minimal perianchor fluid), 2 (local collection of fluid), 3 (fluid collection around the whole length of the anchor but of a diameter less than twice the anchor diameter), or 4 (fluid collection around the whole length of the anchor and of a diameter greater than twice the anchor diameter). Results. A perianchor fluid signal was seen in three patients (8.1%) with anchor A, four (10.8%) with anchor B, 15 (41.7%) with anchor C, and 15 (41.7%) with anchor D. The severity of the collection around anchor was grade 2:1:0:0 for anchor A, grade 2:2:0:0 for anchor B, grade 12:2:0:1 for anchor C, and grade 11:3:0:1 for anchor D (grade 1:2:3:4, respectively). The prevalence and severity of fluid formation was not significantly different between anchors A and B, and anchors C and D. However, on intergroup analysis, there were significant differences for the prevalence and severity of fluid formation between anchors in group 1 and group 2. The prevalence of failure to heal was not significant in group 1 (seven, 18.9%) or group 2 (nine, 25.0%). There was no relationship between the presence of perianchor fluid and each type of anchor, and the integrity of the rotator cuff repair, in either group. Conclusion. Despite the nonabsorbable nature of all-suture and PEEK anchors, all-suture anchors produced less osseous reaction after rotator cuff repair. In deciding which kind of anchor to use, consideration should be given not only to the strength of the initial fixation, but also to the postoperative biological reaction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1506–1511

Aims. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of culture-negative periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) when adequate methods of culture are used, and to evaluate the outcome in patients who were treated with antibiotics for a culture-negative PJI compared with those in whom antibiotics were withheld. Methods. A multicentre observational study was undertaken: 1,553 acute and 1,556 chronic PJIs, diagnosed between 2013 and 2018, were retrospectively analyzed. Culture-negative PJIs were diagnosed according to the Muskuloskeletal Infection Society (MSIS), International Consensus Meeting (ICM), and European Bone and Joint Society (EBJIS) definitions. The primary outcome was recurrent infection, and the secondary outcome was removal of the prosthetic components for any indication, both during a follow-up period of two years. Results. None of the acute PJIs and 70 of the chronic PJIs (4.7%) were culture-negative; a total of 36 culture-negative PJIs (51%) were treated with antibiotics, particularly those with histological signs of infection. After two years of follow-up, no recurrent infections occurred in patients in whom antibiotics were withheld. The requirement for removal of the components for any indication during follow-up was not significantly different in those who received antibiotics compared with those in whom antibiotics were withheld (7.1% vs 2.9%; p = 0.431). Conclusion. When adequate methods of culture are used, the incidence of culture-negative PJIs is low. In patients with culture-negative PJI, antibiotic treatment can probably be withheld if there are no histological signs of infection. In all other patients, diagnostic efforts should be made to identify the causative microorganism by means of serology or molecular techniques. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(1):183–188

Aims. The prevalence of obesity is increasing substantially around the world. Elevated BMI increases the risk of complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA). We sought to evaluate trends in BMI and complication rates of obese patients undergoing primary THA over the last 30 years. Methods. Through our institutional total joint registry, we identified 15,455 primary THAs performed for osteoarthritis from 1990 to 2019. Patients were categorized according to the World Health Organization (WHO) obesity classification and groups were trended over time. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis controlling for confounders was used to investigate the association between year of surgery and two-year risk of any reoperation, any revision, dislocation, periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), venous thromboembolism (VTE), and periprosthetic fracture. Regression was stratified by three separate groups: non-obese; WHO Class I and Class II (BMI 30 to 39 kg/m. 2. ); and WHO Class III patients (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. ). Results. There was a significant increase in the proportion of all obesity classes from 1990 to 2019, and the BMI values within each WHO class significantly increased over time. Risk of any reoperation did not change over time among non-obese or WHO Class I/II patients, but increased for WHO Class III patients (hazard ratio (HR) 1.04; p = 0.044). Risk of dislocation decreased over time for non-obese (HR 0.96; p < 0.001) and WHO Class I/II (HR 0.96; p = 0.002) patients, but did not change over time for WHO Class III (HR 0.94; p = 0.073) patients. Risks of any revision and PJI did not change over time for any group. Conclusion. The proportion of patients undergoing THA who are obese has increased dramatically at our institution between 1990 and 2019. Despite BMI values increasing within all WHO classes over time, two-year complication risks have remained stable or decreased in WHO Class I/II patients. However, continued efforts will be required to mitigate risks in the heaviest WHO Class III patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(11):1223–1230

Aims. Although we often encounter patients with an aortic aneurysm who also have diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), there are no reports to date of an association between these two conditions and the pathogenesis of DISH remains unknown. This study therefore evaluated the prevalence of DISH in patients with a thoracic aortic aneurysm (AA). Patients and Methods. The medical records of 298 patients who underwent CT scans for a diagnosis of an AA or following high-energy trauma were retrospectively examined. A total of 204 patients underwent surgery for an AA and 94 had a high-energy injury and formed the non-AA group. The prevalence of DISH was assessed on CT scans of the chest and abdomen and the relationship between DISH and AA by comparison between the AA and non-AA groups. Results. The prevalence of DISH in the AA group (114/204; 55.9%) was higher than that in the non-AA group (31/94; 33.0%). On multivariate analysis, the factors of AA, male gender, and ageing were independent predictors of the existence of DISH, with odds ratios of 2.9, 1.9, and 1.03, respectively. Conclusion. This study revealed that the prevalence of DISH is higher in patients with an AA than in those without an AA, and that the presence of an AA significantly influenced the prevalence of DISH. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:617–21

Aims. The primary aim was to assess change in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients as they waited from six to 12 months for a total hip (THA) or total or partial knee arthroplasty (KA). Secondary aims were to assess change in joint-specific function, mental health, quality of sleep, number living in a state worse than death (WTD), wellbeing, and patient satisfaction with their healthcare. Methods. This prospective study included 142 patients awaiting a THA (mean age 66.7 years (SD 11.4); 71 female) and 214 patients awaiting KA (mean age 69.7 years (SD 8.7); 117 female). Patients completed questionnaires (EuroQol five-dimension health questionnaire (EQ-5D), Oxford Hip and Knee Scores (OHS/OKS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS), University of California, Los Angeles Activity Scale, wellbeing assessment, and satisfaction with their healthcare) at six and 12 months while awaiting surgery. Results. There was a clinical and statistically significant deterioration in the EQ-5D while awaiting THA (mean change 0.071 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.018 to 0.124); p = 0.009) and KA (mean change 0.069 (95% CI 0.032 to 0.106); p < 0.001). For patients awaiting a THA, there were deteriorations in OHS (p = 0.003), PSQI (p = 0.008), both HADS depression (p = 0.001) and anxiety (p = 0.002), and an increased prevalence in those in a state WTD (p = 0.010). For those awaiting KA, there were significant deteriorations in OKS (p < 0.001), UCLA (p = 0.001), and HADS depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.001). There were significant decreases in wellbeing (satisfaction with life, feeling life to be worthwhile, and happiness) and increases in anxiety for those awaiting THA or KA (p < 0.001). Those awaiting THA (odds ratio (OR) 0.52 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.89); p = 0.016) and KA (OR 0.46 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.71); p < 0.001) had a significant decrease in satisfaction with their healthcare. Conclusion. As patients waited from six to 12 months for THA or KA, they experienced a clinically significant deterioration in HRQoL. There were also deteriorations in joint-specific function, mental health, wellbeing, and patient satisfaction with healthcare. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(2):166–173

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms in patients undergoing shoulder surgery using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Depression and Anxiety computer adaptive tests, and to determine the factors associated with more severe symptoms. Additionally, we sought to determine whether PROMIS Depression and Anxiety were associated with functional outcomes after shoulder surgery. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of 293 patients from an urban population who underwent elective shoulder surgery from 2015 to 2018. Survey questionnaires included preoperative and two-year postoperative data. Bivariate analysis was used to identify associations and multivariable analysis was used to control for confounding variables. Results. Mean two-year PROMIS Depression and Anxiety scores significantly improved from preoperative scores, with a greater improvement observed in PROMIS Anxiety. Worse PROMIS Depression and Anxiety scores were also significantly correlated with worse PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores (ASES). After controlling for confounding variables, worse PROMIS Depression was an independent predictor of worse PROMIS PF, while worse PROMIS Anxiety was an independent predictor of worse PROMIS PF and ASES scores. Conclusion. Mean two-year PROMIS Depression and Anxiety scores improved after elective shoulder surgery and several patient characteristics were associated with these scores. Worse functional outcomes were associated with worse PROMIS Depression and Anxiety; however, more severe two-year PROMIS Anxiety was the strongest predictor of worse functional outcomes. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(4):479–485

Aims. To provide normative data that can assess spinal-related disability and the prevalence of back or leg pain among adults with no spinal conditions in the UK using validated questionnaires. Methods. A total of 1,000 participants with equal sex distribution were included and categorized in five age groups: 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, and 60 to 69 years. Individuals with spinal pathologies were excluded. Participants completed the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22r), visual analogue scale (VAS) for back/leg pain, and the EuroQol five-dimension index (EQ-5D/VAS) questionnaires, and disclosed their age, sex, and occupation. They were also categorized in five professional groups: doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, office workers, and manual workers. Results. The mean age of all participants was 43.8 years (20 to 69). There was no difference in the SRS-22r, EQ-5D, or VAS scores among male and female participants (p > 0.05). There was incremental decrease in SRS-22r total scores as the age increased. The mean EQ-5D index score (0.84) ranged little across the age groups (0.72 to 0.91) but reduced gradually with increasing age. There was difference between the SRS-22r total score (4.51), the individual domain scores, and the EQ-5D score (index: 0.94 and VAS: 89) for the doctors’ group compared to all other occupational categories (p < 0.001). Doctors had a younger mean age of participants, which may explain their improved spinal health. There was no difference in the total or sub-domain SRS-22r and EQ-5D scores between the other four occupational groups. Conclusion. This study provides the first normative data for the SRS-22r, EQ-5D, and VAS for back/leg pain questionnaires among adults in the UK. We recorded an excellent correlation between the three assessment tools with individuals who reported less back and leg pain having better quality of life and greater function. The participants’ age, rather than their sex or profession, appears to be the major determinant for spinal health and quality of life. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(2):130–134

Introduction. Studies have addressed the issue of increasing prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among different occupations. However, contributing factors to MSK pain have not been fully investigated among orthopaedic surgeons. Thus, this study aimed to approximate the prevalence and predictors of MSK pain among Saudi orthopaedic surgeons working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods. A cross-sectional study using an electronic survey was conducted in Riyadh. The questionnaire was distributed through email among orthopaedic surgeons in Riyadh hospitals. Standardized Nordic questionnaires for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms were used. Descriptive measures for categorical and numerical variables were presented. Student’s t-test and Pearson’s χ2 test were used. The level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results. The response rate was 80.3%, with a total number of 179 of Saudi orthopaedic surgeons (173 males and six females). Of our sample, 67.0% of the respondents complained of having MSK pain. The most commonly reported MSK pain was lower back (74.0%), followed by neck (58.2%). Age and body mass index were implicated in the development of more than one type of MSK pain. Increased years of experience (≥ 6 years) was linked to shoulder/elbow, lower back, and hip/thigh pain. Smoking is widely associated with lower back pain development, whereas physicians who do not smoke and exercise regularly reported fewer pain incidences. Excessive bending and twisting during daily practice have been correlated with increased neck pain. Conclusion. MSK pain was found to be common among Saudi orthopaedic surgeons. Further extensive research should be conducted to understand and analyze the risk factors involved and search for possible improvements to avoid further complications. However, ergonomics education during surgical training could be effective at modifying behaviors and reducing MSK pain manifestations

Aims. Physician burnout and its consequences have been recognized as increasingly prevalent and important issues for both organizations and individuals involved in healthcare delivery. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the patterns of self-reported wellness in orthopaedic surgeons and trainees from multiple nations with varying health systems. Methods. A cross-sectional survey of 774 orthopaedic surgeons and trainees in five countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and USA) was conducted in 2019. Respondents were asked to complete the Mayo Clinic Well-Being Index and the Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index in addition to 31 personal/demographic questions and 27 employment-related questions via an anonymous online survey. Results. A total of 684 participants from five countries (Australia (n = 74), Canada (n = 90), New Zealand (n = 69), UK (n = 105), and USA (n = 346)) completed both of the risk assessment questionnaires (Mayo and Stanford). Of these, 42.8% (n = 293) were trainees and 57.2% (n = 391) were attending surgeons. On the Mayo Clinic Well-Being Index, 58.6% of the overall sample reported feeling burned out (n = 401). Significant differences were found between nations with regards to the proportion categorized as being at risk for poor outcomes (27.5% for New Zealand (19/69) vs 54.4% for Canada (49/90) ; p = 0.001). On the Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index, 38.9% of the respondents were classified as being burned out (266/684). Prevalence of burnout ranged from 27% for Australia (20/74 up to 47.8% for Canadian respondents (43/90; p = 0.010). Younger age groups (20 to 29: RR 2.52 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39 to 4.58; p = 0.002); 30 to 39: RR 2.40 (95% CI 1.36 to 4.24; p = 0.003); 40 to 49: RR 2.30 (95% CI 1.35 to 3.9; p = 0.002)) and trainee status (RR 1.53 (95% CI 1.15 to 2.03 p = 0.004)) were independently associated with increased relative risk of having a ‘at-risk’ or ‘burnout’ score. Conclusions. The rate of self-reported burnout and risk for poor outcomes among orthopaedic surgeons and trainees varies between countries but remains unacceptably high throughout. Both individual and health system characteristics contribute to physician wellness and should be considered in the development of strategies to improve surgeon wellbeing. Level of Evidence: III. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(11):932–939

Aims. The purpose of this study was to evaluate unexpected positive cultures in total hip arthroplasty (THA) revisions for presumed aseptic loosening, to assess the prevalence of low-grade infection using two definition criteria, and to analyze its impact on implant survival after revision. Methods. A total of 274 THA revisions performed for presumed aseptic loosening from 2012 to 2016 were reviewed. In addition to obtaining intraoperative tissue cultures from all patients, synovial and sonication fluid samples of the removed implant were obtained in 215 cases (79%) and 101 cases (37%), respectively. Histopathological analysis was performed in 250 cases (91%). Patients were classified as having low-grade infections according to institutional criteria and Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) International Consensus Meeting (ICM) 2013 criteria. Low-grade infections according to institutional criteria were treated with targeted antibiotics for six weeks postoperatively. Implant failure was defined as the need for re-revision resulting from periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and aseptic reasons. The mean follow-up was 68 months (26 to 95). Results. Unexpected positive intraoperative samples were found in 77 revisions (28%). Low-grade infection was diagnosed in 36 cases (13%) using institutional criteria and in nine cases (3%) using MSIS ICM 2013 criteria. In all, 41 patients (15%) had single specimen growth of a low-virulent pathogen and were deemed contaminated. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and anaerobes were the most commonly isolated bacteria. Implant failure for PJI was higher in revisions with presumed contaminants (5/41, 12%) compared to those with low-grade infections (2/36, 6%) and those with negative samples (5/197, 3%) (p = 0.021). The rate of all-cause re-revision was similar in patients diagnosed with low-grade infections (5/36, 14%) and those with presumed contaminants (6/41, 15%) and negative samples (21/197, 11%) (p = 0.699). Conclusion. Our findings suggest that the presumption of culture contamination in aseptic revision hip arthroplasty may increase the detection of PJI. In this cohort, the presence of low-grade infection did not increase the risk of re-revision. Further studies are needed to assess the relevance of single specimen growth and the benefits of specific postoperative antibiotic regimens. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6):1070–1077

Aims. This systematic review asked which patterns of complications are associated with the three reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) prosthetic designs, as classified by Routman et al, in patients undergoing RTSA for the management of cuff tear arthropathy, massive cuff tear, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The three implant design philosophies investigated were medial glenoid/medial humerus (MGMH), medial glenoid/lateral humerus (MGLH), and lateral glenoid/medial humerus (LGMH). Methods. A systematic review of the literature was performed via a search of MEDLINE and Embase. Two reviewers extracted data on complication occurrence and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Meta-analysis was conducted on the reported proportion of complications, weighted by sample size, and PROMs were pooled using the reported standardized mean difference (SMD). Quality of methodology was assessed using Wylde’s non-summative four-point system. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020193041). Results. A total of 42 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Rates of scapular notching were found to be significantly higher in MGMH implants (52% (95% confidence interval (CI) 40 to 63)) compared with MGLH ((18% (95% CI 6 to 34)) and LGMH (12% (95% CI 3 to 26)). Higher rates of glenoid loosening were seen in MGMH implants (6% (95% CI 3 to 10)) than in MGLH implants (0% (95% CI 0 to 2)). However, strength of evidence for this finding was low. No significant differences were identified in any other complication, and there were no significant differences observed in PROMs between implant philosophies. Conclusion. This systematic review has found significant improvement in PROMS and low complication rates across the implant philosophies studied. Scapular notching was the only complication found definitely to have significantly higher prevalence with the MGMH implant design. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):813–821

Aims. To find out if there is an inverse association between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and whole blood cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) levels in patients with metal-on-metal (MoM) hip arthroplasties and renal insufficiency, suggesting that renal insufficiency could cause accumulation of Co and Cr in blood. Methods. Out of 2,520 patients with 3,013 MoM hip arthroplasties, we identified 1,244 patients with whole blood Co, Cr, and creatinine measured within no more than a one-year interval. We analyzed the correlation of blood metal ion levels and eGFR to identify a potential trend of accumulating Co or Cr with decreasing eGFR. Results. Of the 1,244 patients, 112 had normal renal function (eGFR > 90 ml/min/1.73 m. 2. ), 715 had mild renal insufficiency (eGFR 60 to 89), 384 had moderate renal insufficiency (eGFR 30 to 59), 27 had severe renal insufficiency (eGFR 15 to 29), and six had end-stage renal insufficiency (eGFR < 15). Median eGFR was 68 ml/min/1.73 m. 2. (interquartile range (IQR) 56 to 82), median whole blood Co was 3.3 µg/l (IQR 1.1 to 9.9), and median Cr was 2.0 µg/l (IQR 1.2 to 3.6). We did not observe an association between decreased eGFR and increased whole blood Co and Cr concentrations, but instead both increased Co and Cr were associated with higher eGFR, indicating better kidney function. Conclusion. As patients with MoM hip arthroplasties get older, the prevalence of renal insufficiency among them will increase, and orthopaedic surgeons will increasingly have to evaluate whether or not this affects patient follow-up. The USA Food and Drug Administration suggests that closer follow-up may be needed for MoM patients with renal insufficiency. We did not observe accumulation of blood Co or Cr in MoM hip arthroplasty patients with mild to severe renal insufficiency. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7):1231–1237

Aims. This study compares the PFC total knee arthroplasty (TKA) system in a prospective randomized control trial (RCT) of the mobile-bearing rotating-platform (RP) TKA against the fixed-bearing (FB) TKA. This is the largest RCT with the longest follow-up where cruciate-retaining PFC total knee arthroplasties are compared in a non-bilateral TKA study. Patients and Methods. A total of 167 patients (190 knees with 23 bilateral cases), were recruited prospectively and randomly assigned, with 91 knees receiving the RP and 99 knees receiving FB. The mean age was 65.5 years (48 to 82), the mean body mass index (BMI) was 29.7 kg/m. 2. (20 to 52) and 73 patients were female. The Knee Society Score (KSS), Knee Society Functional Score (KSFS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), and 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey Physical and Mental Component Scores (SF-12 PCS, SF-12 MCS) were gathered and recorded preoperatively, at five-years’ follow-up, and at ten years’ follow-up. Additionally, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were collected at five- and ten-year follow-ups. The prevalence of radiolucent lines (RL) on radiographs and implant survival were recorded at five- and ten-year follow-ups. Results. At the ten-year follow-up, the RP group (n = 39) had a statistically significant superior score in the OKS (p = 0.001), WOMAC (p = 0.023), SF-12 PCS (p = 0.019), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (p = 0.010), and KOOS Sport and Recreation (Sport/Rec) (p = 0.006) compared with the FB group (n = 46). The OKS, SF-12 PCS, and KOOS Sport/Rec at ten years had mean scores above the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) threshold. There was no significant difference in prevalence of radiolucency between groups at five-years’ follow-up (p = 0.449), nor at ten-years’ follow-up (p = 0.08). Implant survival rate at 14 years postoperative was 95.2 (95% CI 90.7 to 99.8) and 94.7 (95% CI 86.8 to 100.0) for the RP and FB TKAs, respectively. Conclusion. At ten-year follow-up, the mobile-bearing knee joint arthroplasty had statistically and clinically relevant superior OKS, SF-12 PCS, and KOOS (Sport/Rec) than the fixed-bearing platform. No difference was seen in prevalence of radiolucent lines. There was a greater than 94% implant survival rate for both cohorts at 14 years. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1336–44

Aims. The primary aim was to assess the rate of postoperative COVID-19 following hip and knee arthroplasty performed in March 2020 in the UK. The secondary aims were to assess whether there were clinical factors associated with COVID-19 status, the mortality rate of patients with COVID-19, and the rate of potential COVID-19 in patients not presenting to healthcare services. Methods. A multicentre retrospective study was conducted of patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (1 March 2020 to 31 March 2020) with a minimum of 60 days follow-up. Patient demographics, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, procedure type, primary or revision, length of stay (LOS), COVID-19 test status, and postoperative mortality were recorded. A subgroup of patients (n = 211) who had not presented to healthcare services after discharge were contacted and questioned as to whether they had symptoms of COVID-19. Results. Five (0.5%) of 1,073 patients who underwent hip or knee arthroplasty tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 postoperatively. When adjusting for confounding factors, increasing LOS (p = 0.022) was the only significant factor associated with developing COVID-19 following surgery and a stay greater than three days was a reliable predictor with an area under the curve of 81% (p = 0.018). There were three (0.3%) deaths in the study cohort and the overall mortality rate attributable to COVID-19 was 0.09% (n = 1/1,073), with one (20%) of the five patients with COVID-19 dying postoperatively. Of the 211 patients contacted, two had symptoms within two to 14 days postoperatively with a positive predictive value of 31% and it was therefore estimated that one patient may have had undiagnosed COVID-19. Conclusion. The rate of postoperative COVID-19 was 0.5% and may have been as high as 1% when accounting for those patients not presenting to healthcare services, which was similar to the estimated population prevalence during the study period. The overall mortality rate secondary to COVID-19 was low (0.09%), however the mortality rate for those patients developing COVID-19 was 20%. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(4):681–688

Aims. With novel promising therapies potentially limiting progression of Dupuytren’s disease (DD), better patient stratification is needed. We aimed to quantify DD development and progression after seven years in a population-based cohort, and to identify factors predictive of disease development or progression. Methods. All surviving participants from our previous prevalence study were invited to participate in the current prospective cohort study. Participants were examined for presence of DD and Iselin’s classification was applied. They were asked to complete comprehensive questionnaires. Disease progression was defined as advancement to a further Iselin stage or surgery. Potential predictive factors were assessed using multivariable regression analyses. Of 763 participants in our original study, 398 were available for further investigation seven years later. Results. We identified 143/398 (35.9%) participants with DD, of whom 56 (39.2%) were newly diagnosed. Overall, 20/93 (21.5%) previously affected participants had disease progression, while 6/93 (6.5%) patients showed disease regression. Disease progression occurred more often in patients who initially had advanced disease. Multivariable regression analyses revealed that both ectopic lesions and a positive family history of DD are independent predictors of disease progression. Previous hand injury predicts development of DD. Conclusion. Disease progression occurred in 21.5% of DD patients in our study. The higher the initial disease stage, the greater the proportion of participants who had disease progression at follow-up. Both ectopic lesions and a positive family history of DD predict disease progression. These patient-specific factors may be used to identify patients who might benefit from treatment that prevents progression. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(4):704–710

Aims. We aimed to describe the epidemiological, biological, and bacteriological characteristics of osteoarticular infections (OAIs) caused by Kingella kingae. Methods. The medical charts of all children presenting with OAIs to our institution over a 13-year period (January 2007 to December 2019) were reviewed. Among these patients, we extracted those which presented an OAI caused by K. kingae and their epidemiological data, biological results, and bacteriological aetiologies were assessed. Results. K. kingae was the main reported microorganism in our paediatric population, being responsible for 48.7% of OAIs confirmed bacteriologically. K. kingae affects primarily children aged between six months and 48 months. The highest prevalence of OAI caused by K. kingae was between seven months and 24 months old. After the patients were 27 months old, its incidence decreased significantly. The incidence though of infection throughout the year showed no significant differences. Three-quarters of patients with an OAI caused by K. kingae were afebrile at hospital admission, 11% had elevated WBCs, and 61.2% had abnormal CRPs, whereas the ESR was increased in 75%, constituting the most significant predictor of an OAI. On MRI, we noted 53% of arthritis affecting mostly the knee and 31% of osteomyelitis located primarily in the foot. Conclusion. K. kingae should be recognized currently as the primary pathogen causing OAI in children younger than 48 months old. Diagnosis of an OAI caused by K. kingae is not always obvious, since this infection may occur with a mild-to-moderate clinical and biological inflammatory response. Extensive use of nucleic acid amplification assays improved the detection of fastidious pathogens and has increased the observed incidence of OAI, especially in children aged between six months and 48 months. We propose the incorporation of polymerase chain reaction assays into modern diagnostic algorithms for OAIs to better identify the bacteriological aetiology of OAIs. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(3):578–583

The high prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA), as well as the current lack of disease-modifying drugs for OA, has provided a rationale for regenerative medicine as a possible treatment modality for OA treatment. In this editorial, the current status of regenerative medicine in OA including stem cells, exosomes, and genes is summarized along with the author’s perspectives. Despite a tremendous interest, so far there is very little evidence proving the efficacy of this modality for clinical application. As symptomatic relief is not sufficient to justify the high cost associated with regenerative medicine, definitive structural improvement that would last for years or decades and obviate or delay the need for joint arthroplasty is essential for regenerative medicine to retain a place among OA treatment methods. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(2):134–136

Aims. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to healthcare systems across the globe in 2020. There were concerns surrounding early reports of increased mortality among patients undergoing emergency or non-urgent surgery. We report the morbidity and mortality in patients who underwent arthroplasty procedures during the UK first stage of the pandemic. Methods. Institutional review board approval was obtained for a review of prospectively collected data on consecutive patients who underwent arthroplasty procedures between March and May 2020 at a specialist orthopaedic centre in the UK. Data included diagnoses, comorbidities, BMI, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, length of stay, and complications. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality and secondary outcomes were prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, medical and surgical complications, and readmission within 30 days of discharge. The data collated were compared with series from the preceding three months. Results. There were 167 elective procedures performed in the first three weeks of the study period, prior to the first national lockdown, and 57 emergency procedures thereafter. Three patients (1.3%) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. There was one death (0.45%) due to SARS-CoV-2 infection after an emergency procedure. None of the patients developed complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection after elective arthroplasty. There was no observed spike in complications during in-hospital stay or in the early postoperative period. There was no statistically significant difference in survival between pre-COVID-19 and peri-COVID-19 groups (p = 0.624). We observed a higher number of emergency procedures performed during the pandemic within our institute. Conclusion. An international cohort has reported 30-day mortality as 28.8% following orthopaedic procedures during the pandemic. There are currently no reports on clinical outcomes of patients treated with lower limb reconstructive surgery during the same period. While an effective vaccine is developed and widely accepted, it is very likely that SARS-CoV2 infection remains endemic. We believe that this report will help guide future restoration planning here in the UK and abroad. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(5):323–329

Aims. Aseptic loosening is a leading cause of uncemented arthroplasty failure, often accompanied by fibrotic tissue at the bone-implant interface. A biological target, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), was investigated as a crucial connection between the innate immune system’s response to injury, fibrotic tissue development, and proper bone healing. Prevalence of NETs in peri-implant fibrotic tissue from aseptic loosening patients was assessed. A murine model of osseointegration failure was used to test the hypothesis that inhibition (through Pad4-/- mice that display defects in peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), an essential protein required for NETs) or resolution (via DNase 1 treatment, an enzyme that degrades the cytotoxic DNA matrix) of NETs can prevent osseointegration failure and formation of peri-implant fibrotic tissue. Methods. Patient peri-implant fibrotic tissue was analyzed for NETs biomarkers. To enhance osseointegration in loose implant conditions, an innate immune system pathway (NETs) was either inhibited (Pad4-/- mice) or resolved with a pharmacological agent (DNase 1) in a murine model of osseointegration failure. Results. NETs biomarkers were identified in peri-implant fibrotic tissue collected from aseptic loosening patients and at the bone-implant interface in a murine model of osseointegration failure. Inhibition (Pad4-/-) or resolution (DNase 1) of NETs improved osseointegration and reduced fibrotic tissue despite loose implant conditions in mice. Conclusion. This study identifies a biological target (NETs) for potential noninvasive treatments of aseptic loosening by discovering a novel connection between the innate immune system and post-injury bone remodelling caused by implant loosening. By inhibiting or resolving NETs in an osseointegration failure murine model, fibrotic tissue encapsulation around an implant is reduced and osseointegration is enhanced, despite loose implant conditions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):135–144

Objectives. We used the National Joint Registry for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man (NJR) to investigate the risk of revision due to prosthetic joint infection (PJI) for patients undergoing primary and revision hip arthroplasty, the changes in risk over time, and the overall burden created by PJI. Methods. We analysed revision total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed due to a diagnosis of PJI and the linked index procedures recorded in the NJR between 2003 and 2014. The cohort analysed consisted of 623 253 index primary hip arthroplasties, 63 222 index revision hip arthroplasties and 7585 revision THAs performed due to a diagnosis of PJI. The prevalence, cumulative incidence functions and the burden of PJI (total procedures) were calculated. Overall linear trends were investigated with log-linear regression. Results. We demonstrated a prevalence of revision THA due to prosthetic joint infection of 0.4/100 procedures following primary and 1.6/100 procedures following revision hip arthroplasty. The prevalence of revision due to PJI in the three months following primary hip arthroplasty has risen 2.3-fold (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3 to 4.1) between 2005 and 2013, and 3.0-fold (95% CI 1.1 to 8.5) following revision hip arthroplasty. Over 1000 procedures are performed annually as a consequence of hip PJI, an increase of 2.6-fold between 2005 and 2013. Conclusions. Although the risk of revision due to PJI following hip arthroplasty is low, it is rising and, coupled with the established and further predicted increased incidence of both primary and revision hip arthroplasty, this represents a growing and substantial treatment burden. Cite this article: E. Lenguerrand, M. R. Whitehouse, A. D. Beswick, S. A. Jones, M. L. Porter, A. W. Blom. Revision for prosthetic joint infection following hip arthroplasty: Evidence from the National Joint Registry. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:391–398. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.66.BJR-2017-0003.R1

Aims. The prevalence of ipsilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is rising in concert with life expectancy, putting more patients at risk for interprosthetic femur fractures (IPFFs). Our study aimed to assess treatment methodologies, implant survivorship, and IPFF clinical outcomes. Methods. A total of 76 patients treated for an IPFF from February 1985 to April 2018 were reviewed. Prior to fracture, at the hip/knee sites respectively, 46 femora had primary/primary, 21 had revision/primary, three had primary/revision, and six had revision/revision components. Mean age and BMI were 74 years (33 to 99) and 30 kg/m. 2. (21 to 46), respectively. Mean follow-up after fracture treatment was seven years (2 to 24). Results. Overall, 59 fractures were classified as Vancouver C (Unified Classification System (UCS) D), 17 were Vancouver B (UCS B). In total, 57 patients (75%) were treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF); three developed nonunion, three developed periprosthetic joint infection, and two developed aseptic loosening. In all, 18 patients (24%) underwent revision arthroplasty including 13 revision THAs, four distal femoral arthroplasties (DFAs), and one revision TKA: of these, one patient developed aseptic loosening and two developed nonunion. Survivorship free from any reoperation was 82% (95% confidence interval (CI) 66.9% to 90.6%) and 77% (95% CI 49.4% to 90.7%) in the ORIF and revision groups at two years, respectively. ORIF patients who went on to union tended to have stemmed knee components and greater mean interprosthetic distance (IPD = 189 mm (SD 73.6) vs 163 mm (SD 36.7); p = 0.546) than nonunited fractures. Patients who went on to nonunion in the revision arthroplasty group had higher medullary diameter: cortical width ratio (2.5 (SD 1.7) vs 1.3 (SD 0.3); p = 0.008) and lower IPD (36 mm (SD 30.6) vs 214 mm (SD 32.1); p < 0.001). At latest follow-up, 95% of patients (n = 72) were ambulatory. Conclusion. Interprosthetic femur fractures are technically and biologically challenging cases. Individualized approaches to internal fixation versus revision arthroplasty led to an 81% (95% CI 68.3% to 88.6%) survivorship free from reoperation at two years with 95% of patients ambulatory. Continued improvements in management are warranted. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):122–128

Aims. Malreduction of the syndesmosis has been reported in up to 52% of patients after fixation of ankle fractures. Multiple radiological parameters are used to define malreduction; there has been limited investigation of the accuracy of these measurements in differentiating malreduction from inherent anatomical asymmetry. The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of positive malreduction standards within the syndesmosis of native, uninjured ankles. Methods. Three observers reviewed 213 bilateral lower limb CT scans of uninjured ankles. Multiple measurements were recorded on the axial CT 1 cm above the plafond: anterior syndesmotic distance; posterior syndesmotic distance; central syndesmotic distance; fibular rotation; and sagittal fibular translation. Previously studied malreduction standards were evaluated on bilateral CT, including differences in: anterior, central and posterior syndesmotic distance; mean syndesmotic distance; fibular rotation; sagittal translational distance; and syndesmotic area. Unilateral CT was used to compare the anterior to posterior syndesmotic distances. Results. A difference of anterior to posterior syndesmotic distance > 2 mm was observed in 89% of ankles (n = 190) on unilateral CT assessment. Using bilateral CT, we found that 35% (n = 75) of normal ankles would be considered malreduced by current malreduction parameters. In 50 patients (23%), only one parameter was anomalous, 18 patients (8%) had two positive parameters and seven patients (3%) had three. Difference in fibular rotation had the lowest false positive rate of all parameters at 6%, whereas posterior syndesmotic distance difference had the highest at 15%. Conclusion. In this study, 35% of native, uninjured syndesmoses (n = 75) would be classified as malreduced by current diagnostic standards on bilateral CT and 89% had an asymmetric incisura on unilateral CT (n = 190). Current radiological parameters are insufficient to differentiate mild inherent anatomical asymmetry from malreduction of the syndesmosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(1):178–183

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess total knee arthroplasty (TKA) volume and rates of early complications in morbidly obese patients over the last decade, where the introduction of quality models influencing perioperative care pathways occurred. Methods. Patients undergoing TKA between 2011 to 2018 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients were stratified by BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. and ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. and evaluated by the number of cases per year. The 30-day rates of any complication, wound complications, readmissions, and reoperation were assessed. Trends in these endpoints over the study period were compared between groups using odds ratios (ORs) and multivariate analyses. Results. In total, 314,695 patients underwent TKA and 46,362 (15%) had BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. The prevalence of morbid obesity among TKA patients did not change greatly, ranging between 14% and 16%. Reoperation rate decreased from 1.16% to 0.96% (odds ratio (OR) 0.81 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66 to 0.99)) for patients with BMI < 40 kg/m. 2. , as did rates of readmission (4.46% to 2.87%; OR 0.61 (0.55 to 0.69)). Patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. also had fewer readmissions over the study period (4.87% to 3.34%; OR 0.64 (0.49 to 0.83)); however, the rate of reoperation did not change (1.37% to 1.41%; OR 0.99 (0.62 to 1.56)). Significant improvements were not observed for infective complications over time for either group; patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m. 2. had increased risk of both deep infection and wound complications compared to non-morbidly obese patients. Rate of any complication decreased for all patients. Conclusion. The proportion of TKAs in morbidly obese patients has not significantly changed over the past decade. Although readmission rates improved for all patients, reductions in reoperation in non-morbidly obese patients were not experienced by the morbidly obese, resulting in a widening of the complication gap between these cohorts. Care improvements have not lowered the differential risk of infective complications in the morbidly obese. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(6 Supple A):38–44

Aims. Elective surgery has been severely curtailed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is little evidence to guide surgeons in assessing what processes should be put in place to restart elective surgery safely in a time of endemic COVID-19 in the community. Methods. We used data from a stand-alone hospital admitting and operating on 91 trauma patients. All patients were screened on admission and 100% of patients have been followed-up after discharge to assess outcome. Results. Overall, 87 (96%) patients remained symptom-free and recovered well following surgery. Four (4%) patients developed symptoms of COVID-19, with polymerase chain reaction ribonucleiuc acid (PCR-RNA) testing confirming infection. Conclusion. Based on our findings, we propose that if careful cohorting and screening is carried out in a stand-alone cold operating site, it is reasonable to resume elective operating, in a time of endemic but low community prevalence of SAR-Cov2. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-6:229–235

Aims. To study the associations of lumbar developmental spinal stenosis (DSS) with low back pain (LBP), radicular leg pain, and disability. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study of 2,206 subjects along with L1-S1 axial and sagittal MRI. Clinical and radiological information regarding their demographics, workload, smoking habits, anteroposterior (AP) vertebral canal diameter, spondylolisthesis, and MRI changes were evaluated. Mann-Whitney U tests and chi-squared tests were conducted to search for differences between subjects with and without DSS. Associations of LBP and radicular pain reported within one month (30 days) and one year (365 days) of the MRI, with clinical and radiological information, were also investigated by utilizing univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. Results. Subjects with DSS had higher prevalence of radicular leg pain, more pain-related disability, and lower quality of life (all p < 0.05). Subjects with DSS had 1.5 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0 to 2.1; p = 0.027) and 1.8 (95% CI 1.3 to 2.6; p = 0.001) times higher odds of having radicular leg pain in the past month and the past year, respectively. However, DSS was not associated with LBP. Although, subjects with a spondylolisthesis had 1.7 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.5; p = 0.011) and 2.0 (95% CI 1.2 to 3.2; p = 0.008) times greater odds to experience LBP in the past month and the past year, respectively. Conclusion. This large-scale study identified DSS as a risk factor of acute and chronic radicular leg pain. DSS was seen in 6.9% of the study cohort and these patients had narrower spinal canals. Subjects with DSS had earlier onset of symptoms, more severe radicular leg pain, which lasted for longer and were more likely to have worse disability and poorer quality of life. In these patients there is an increased likelihood of nerve root compression due to a pre-existing narrowed canal, which is important when planning surgery as patients are likely to require multi-level decompression surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(1):131–140

Aims. We present the clinical and radiological results at a minimum follow-up of 20 years using a second-generation uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA). These results are compared to our previously published results using a first-generation hip arthroplasty followed for 20 years. Methods. A total of 62 uncemented THAs in 60 patients were performed between 1993 and 1994. The titanium femoral component used in all cases was a Taperloc with a reduced distal stem. The acetabular component was a fully porous coated threaded hemispheric titanium shell (T-Tap ST). The outcome of every femoral and acetabular component with regard to retention or revision was determined for all 62 THAs. Complete clinical follow-up at a minimum of 20 years was obtained on every living patient. Radiological follow-up was obtained on all but one. Results. Two femoral components (3.2%) required revision. One stem was revised secondary to a periprosthetic fracture one year postoperatively and one was revised for late sepsis. No femoral component was revised for aseptic loosening. Six acetabular components had required revision, five for aseptic loosening. One additional acetabular component was revised for sepsis. Radiologically, all femoral components remained well fixed. One acetabular was judged loose by radiological criteria. The mean Harris Hip Score improved from 46 points (30 to 67) preoperatively to 89 points (78 to 100) at final follow-up. With revision for aseptic loosening as the endpoint, survival of the acetabular component was 95% (95% confidence interval (CI) 90 to 98) at 25 years. Femoral component survival was 100%. Conclusion. The most significant finding of this report was the low prevalence of aseptic loosening and revision of the femoral component at a mean follow-up of 22 years. A second important finding was the survival of over 90% of the hemispheric threaded ring acetabular components. While these shells remain controversial, in this series they performed well. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(1):33–39

Aims. Medical comorbidities are a critical factor in the decision-making process for operative management and risk-stratification. The Hierarchical Condition Categories (HCC) risk adjustment model is a powerful measure of illness severity for patients treated by surgeons. The HCC is utilized by Medicare to predict medical expenditure risk and to reimburse physicians accordingly. HCC weighs comorbidities differently to calculate risk. This study determines the prevalence of medical comorbidities and the average HCC score in Medicare patients being evaluated by neurosurgeons and orthopaedic surgeon, as well as a subset of academic spine surgeons within both specialities, in the USA. Methods. The Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Database, which is based on data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ National Claims History Standard Analytic Files, was analyzed for this study. Every surgeon who submitted a valid Medicare Part B non-institutional claim during the 2013 calendar year was included in this study. This database was queried for medical comorbidities and HCC scores of each patient who had, at minimum, a single office visit with a surgeon. This data included 21,204 orthopaedic surgeons and 4,372 neurosurgeons across 54 states/territories in the USA. Results. Orthopaedic surgeons evaluated patients with a mean HCC of 1.21, while neurosurgeons evaluated patients with a mean HCC of 1.34 (p < 0.05). The rates of specific comorbidities in patients seen by orthopaedic surgeons/neurosurgeons is as follows: Ischemic heart disease (35%/39%), diabetes (31%/33%), depression (23%/31%), chronic kidney disease (19%/23%), and heart failure (17%/19%). Conclusion. Nationally, comorbidity rate and HCC value for these Medicare patients are higher than national averages for the US population, with ischemic heart disease being six-times higher, diabetes two-times higher, depression three- to four-times higher, chronic kidney disease three-times higher, and heart failure nine-times higher among patients evaluated by orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2020;1-6:257–260