BackgroundArtificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly gained momentum in the field of orthopaedics, with an increasing number of systematic reviews and meta-analyses providing synthesised evidence. However, most studies have focused on individual subspecialties or specific applications, and a comprehensive overview across the discipline is lacking.AimThe aim of this study is to chart publication trends and geographical distribution, classify clinical and anatomical focus, and map AI methodologies and applications in orthopaedic settings, thereby highlighting research opportunities in underexplored areas.MethodsWe conducted a scoping review of freely accessible systematic reviews with and without meta-analysis across PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases from year 2015 up to July 2025 that evaluated the use of AI in orthopaedics. Data were extracted on publication characteristics, geographical origin, orthopaedic subspecialty focus, anatomical region, AI methodologies, data modalities, and application types. The methodological quality of the included reviews was appraised using the A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2). Descriptive trends were summarised, and associations between variables were analysed using R software.ResultsWe identified 183 eligible systematic reviews published in the last 10 years, with an exponential increase in publications over the past 5 years. Most reviews concentrated on fractures, arthroplasty, and surgery-related studies, particularly in the spine, knee, and hip. Imaging datasets predominated, with deep learning most frequently applied to radiological tasks, while machine learning methods were more common in structured clinical data applications. Notable gaps remain in underrepresented anatomical regions and in underexplored applications such as prescriptive modelling.ConclusionOur review highlights that while there is rapid growth in AI research across orthopaedics, certain clinical domains remain underexplored. These gaps represent opportunities for future work to align AI methods with clinical needs. By addressing these areas, AI has the potential to effectively support orthopaedic care and improve patient outcomes.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful class of machine learning that moves beyond simply analysing data to actually creating new and original content, such as medical images or clinical text. The use of generative AI is varied in orthopaedic surgery. Generative AI moves us from one-size-fits-all surgical planning to highly personalised surgical blueprints for each patient's unique anatomy and condition. While generative AI in surgery is new, it can provide real-time intelligent help to a surgeon's skill and decision-making. Most practitioners see the use of AI as a tool to improve diagnosis and treatment, with some expressing their concern that it will conversely worsen diagnosis and treatment. With its use and potential, the use of generative AI currently should be supervised and validated, as it has been shown that sometimes the generated content does not reference to any actual source. Policies and economic values are also detrimental to the integration of AI technologies in clinical orthopaedics. Ethical issues, practitioners view and perspective, and the high overall cost of AI technology use, are among the barriers that may emerge. This comprehensive review addresses the opportunities, challenges, and future direction of integrating generative AI in orthopaedic surgery.
Breast cancer is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity among females worldwide. As part of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2023, we provided an updated comprehensive assessment of the epidemiological trends, disease burden, and risk factors associated with breast cancer globally, regionally, and nationally from 1990 to 2023. Breast cancer incidence, mortality, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), years of life lost (YLLs), and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) were estimated by age and sex for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2023. Mortality estimates were generated using GBD Cause of Death Ensemble models, leveraging data from population-based cancer registration systems, vital registration systems, and verbal autopsies. Mortality-to-incidence ratios were calculated to derive both mortality and incidence estimates. Prevalence was calculated by combining incidence and modelled survival estimates. YLLs were established by multiplying age-specific deaths with the GBD standard life expectancy at the age of death. YLDs were estimated by applying disability weights to prevalence estimates. The sum of YLLs and YLDs equalled the number of DALYs. Breast cancer burden attributable to seven risk factors was examined through the comparative risk assessment framework. The GBD forecasting framework was used to forecast breast cancer incidence and mortality from 2024 to 2050. Age-standardised rates were calculated for each metric using the GBD 2023 world standard population. In 2023, there were an estimated 2·30 million (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 2·01 to 2·61) breast cancer incident cases, 764 000 deaths (672 000 to 854 000), and 24·1 million (21·3 to 27·5) DALYs among females globally. In the World Bank low-income group, where a low age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) was estimated (44·2 per 100 000 person-years [31·2 to 58·4]), the age-standardised mortality rate (ASMR) was the highest (24·1 per 100 000 [16·8 to 31·9]). The highest ASIR was in the high-income group (75·7 per 100 000 [67·1 to 84·0]), and the lowest ASMR was in the upper-middle-income group (11·2 per 100 000 [10·2 to 12·3]). Between 1990 and 2023, the ASIR in the low-income group increased by 147·2% (38·1 to 271·7), compared with a 1·2% (-11·5 to 17·2) change in the high-income group. The ASMR decreased in the high-income group, changing by -29·9% (-33·6 to -25·9), but increased by 99·3% (12·5 to 202·9) in the low-income group. The increase in age-standardised DALY rates followed that of ASMRs. Risk factors such as dietary risks, tobacco use, and high fasting plasma glucose contributed to 28·3% (16·6 to 38·9) of breast cancer DALYs in 2023. The risk factors with a decrease in attributable DALYs between 1990 and 2023 were high alcohol use and tobacco. By 2050, the global incident cases of breast cancer among females were forecast to reach 3·56 million (2·29 to 4·83), with 1·37 million (0·841 to 2·02) deaths. The stable incidence and declining mortality rates of female breast cancer in high-income nations reflect success in screening, diagnosis, and treatment. In contrast, the concurrent rise in incidence and mortality in other regions signals health system deficits. Without effective interventions, many countries will fall short of the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative's ambitious target of achieving an annual reduction of 2·5% in age-standardised mortality rates by 2040. The mounting breast cancer burden, disproportionately affecting some of the world's most vulnerable populations, will further exacerbate health inequalities across the globe without decisive immediate action. Gates Foundation, St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become pervasive in biomedicine and is transforming orthopaedic research from bench to bedside. Beyond its established roles in robotic surgery and diagnostics, AI now supports advances in biomechanics, imaging, tissue engineering, drug discovery, genomics, and prosthetic control. In biomechanics, AI enables faster finite-element simulations, markerless gait analysis, and data augmentation using synthetic signals. Imaging applications include automated segmentation of the spine and hip, opportunistic screening for osteoporosis, bone metastasis detection, and three-dimensional analysis of knee osteoarthritis. In regenerative medicine, AI assists in scaffold optimization, bioprinting, and personalized cell therapies, while integration with genomic and proteomic data enhances precision orthopaedics. Machine learning-based control systems also improve the usability of prosthetics and exoskeletons, reducing cognitive burden for patients. Despite challenges such as data scarcity, validation, and ethical considerations, AI is emerging as a powerful complement to traditional research methods. By accelerating workflows, improving accuracy, and enabling individualized care, AI holds strong potential to bridge laboratory discoveries with clinical applications in orthopaedics. This review highlights the application of AI in orthopaedic research and assesses how it could integrate into clinical practice in the future.
Background: Metatarsalgia is a frequent cause of forefoot pain, often linked to isolated gastrocnemius tightness, which increases forefoot pressure during gait. Gastrocnemius recession has been proposed as a surgical treatment to correct this biomechanical dysfunction. This systematic review aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes, complication rates, and quality of evidence regarding gastrocnemius recession performed exclusively for the treatment of isolated metatarsalgia. Materials and Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library was conducted in February 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included if they reported outcomes of gastrocnemius release performed solely for isolated metatarsalgia. Data on surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, complications, and follow-up durations were extracted and analyzed. Results: Three studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing a total of 86 operated feet with a mean follow-up of 37.5 months. Surgical techniques varied across studies, including proximal medial gastrocnemius release and musculotendinous junction recession. All studies reported significant improvements in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, along with high rates of patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, approximately 30% of patients required adjunctive forefoot procedures. The complication rate was low and predominantly involved minor nerve symptoms and transient bruising. Conclusion: Gastrocnemius recession appears to be an effective and safe surgical option for the management of isolated metatarsalgia, providing substantial pain relief and high patient satisfaction. However, the multifactorial nature of metatarsalgia often necessitates additional forefoot procedures. Standardization of surgical techniques, postoperative protocols, and outcome measures is essential to enhance clinical decision-making and future research quality.
IntroductionTotal Hip Arthroplasty (THA) is a widely performed orthopaedic surgery, essential for treating severe pain and mobility issues arising from various conditions. The anticipated rise in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) procedures underscores the critical importance of their success, which is heavily dependent on the accurate positioning of prosthetic components. Various approaches like the Direct Anterior Approach with Fluoroscopy (DAA-F THA) and Robotic-assisted THA (RA THA) have their limitations. Computer-Navigated THA (CN THA) has emerged as a promising alternative, offering real-time feedback and potentially enhanced accuracy in component placement. This study evaluates the precision of CN THA in correcting leg length discrepancies and accurately positioning the acetabular component.MethodsThe study involved 122 consecutive patients undergoing direct anterior CN THA by the senior author. Exclusions were based on different surgical approaches, need for revision surgery, and infections. The study focused on the precise placement of acetabular components and leg length restoration. CN THA was used for intra-operative measurements, while post-operative radiographs were analyzed with TraumaCad® for comparison. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation coefficients and descriptive analyses.ResultsCN THA showed high accuracy in leg length restoration with 85.25% of cases showing less than 5 mm discrepancy. Similarly, acetabular component positioning was precise, with 90.98% of inclination and 74.59% of anteversion measurements within acceptable ranges. The correlation between intra-operative and post-operative measurements was strong, indicating the reliability of CN THA measurements.ConclusionCN THA was shown to be highly accurate in correcting leg length discrepancies and achieving proper acetabular component positioning. The strong correlation between intra- and post-operative measurements underscores the reliability of CN THA. The study, however, is limited by its single-surgeon, single-approach design, and lack of a control group. Despite these limitations, CN THA shows considerable potential in improving THA precision, enhancing surgical outcomes, and customizing patient care.
BackgroundPatients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) undergoing ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) face high risks of surgical site infection (SSI) and implant failure. This study evaluated whether preoperative use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) improves these postoperative outcomes.MethodsUsing the TriNetX global database (2005-2025), we identified T2DM patients undergoing ankle fracture ORIF. Users of SGLT2is or GLP-1 RAs within 180 days before surgery were compared with non-users using 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). The primary outcome was a 90-day composite of SSI or infection-related implant removal. Secondary outcomes included the 1-year composite and all-cause mortality.ResultsAfter PSM, 1289 users were compared with 1289 non-users. At 90 days, the composite infection-related outcome occurred in 1.45% of users versus 6.26% of non-users (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.19-0.62; p < 0.001). At 1 year, the risk remained significantly lower in users (1.79% vs 11.92%; HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.25-0.72; p < 0.001). While 1-year mortality showed a downward trend in the primary cohort (HR 0.61, p = 0.1393), sensitivity analyses excluding dual-therapy users demonstrated a statistically significant survival advantage for single-agent users (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.21-0.80; p = 0.007). Further analysis restricted to active users (30-day exposure) showed no observed instances of mortality or 1-year infection-related complications (both p < 0.001), although these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the small number of events.ConclusionsPreoperative use of SGLT2is or GLP-1 RAs was associated with a substantial reduction in infection-related implant failure and a lower risk of mortality, particularly when used as monotherapy or in closer proximity to surgery. These findings suggest that modern cardiometabolic agents may represent valuable components of preoperative optimization strategies in high-risk diabetic patients, although confirmation in prospective studies is warranted.
ObjectiveThis study examined the associations of visceral adiposity index (VAI), body roundness index (BRI), and lipid accumulation product (LAP) with the risk, severity, and prognosis of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The aim was to evaluate the clinical utility of these novel adiposity indices for early screening and prognostic assessment of KOA.MethodsA total of 124 patients with clinically and radiographically confirmed KOA and 120 healthy individuals who underwent routine physical examinations during the same period were enrolled as the KOA and control groups, respectively. Baseline data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical records. KOA patients were further classified into mild, moderate, and severe subgroups based on K-L grading and were followed for 12 months.ResultsCompared with controls, the KOA group had significantly higher BMI, TG, TC, LDL-C, VAI, BRI, and LAP, and lower HDL-C (p < 0.05). VAI, BRI, and LAP increased progressively with KOA severity (p < 0.05), showing positive correlations (r = 0.608, 0.489, 0.551, p < 0.001), and were confirmed as independent risk factors (p < 0.05). ROC analysis yielded AUCs of 0.775 (95% CI: 0.718-0.833; cutoff: 2.91) for VAI, 0.752 (95% CI: 0.692-0.813; cutoff: 5.21) for BRI, and 0.779 (95% CI: 0.722-0.836; cutoff: 48.58) for LAP, with a combined AUC of 0.880 (95% CI: 0.839-0.922). Survival time differed significantly across groups stratified by these cutoffs (VAI: χ2 = 4.238; BRI: χ2 = 3.956; LAP: χ2 = 6.043; all p < 0.05).ConclusionThis study concludes that VAI, BRI, and LAP are closely linked to KOA. Firstly, their levels are significantly raised in patients and show a positive correlation with disease severity, marking them as useful clinical indicators. Secondly, the combined detection of these indices provides superior predictive value for KOA and is associated with an unfavorable prognosis, suggesting their utility in comprehensive risk assessment.
Study designNetwork Meta-Analysis.ObjectiveTo comprehensively compare the clinical efficacy and safety of anterior controllable antedisplacement and fusion (ACAF), anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF), and laminoplasty (LP) for treating multilevel cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).MethodsPubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched (inception to April 1, 2025) for clinical studies comparing at least two of ACAF, ACCF, or LP for multilevel (≥2 segments) cervical OPLL. Data on surgical parameters, neurological function (Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA] score, JOA recovery rate, Visual Analog Scale [VAS]), biomechanics (cervical curvature, Cobb angle, Range of Motion [ROM], Neck Disability Index [NDI]), and complications were extracted. A frequentist network meta-analysis using a multivariate random-effects model was performed. Treatments were ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA).ResultsThirty-one non-randomized studies involving 2616 patients were included (ACAF: 585; ACCF: 875; LP: 1156). NMA showed ACAF and ACCF achieved significantly better postoperative JOA scores and recovery rates than LP (p < 0.05). ACAF showed the highest probability of being the most effective treatment for postoperative VAS score (vs ACCF & LP, p < 0.05) and maintenance of cervical curvature/Cobb angle (vs ACCF & LP, p < 0.05). LP had the shortest operative time (p < 0.05). Regarding safety, ACAF was associated with the lowest probability of total complications (SUCRA 99.7%), with significantly lower risks of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage versus ACCF (p < 0.05), and C5 palsy and axial pain versus LP (p < 0.05). LP had the lowest risk of dysphagia (p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis suggested ACAF's benefits, particularly in neurological outcome, are more pronounced in patients with severe stenosis (occupying ratio ≥60%).ConclusionBased on current observational evidence, ACAF appears to be a promising option for multilevel cervical OPLL, particularly for patients with severe stenosis. ACCF provides effective neurological decompression but carries a higher CSF leak risk than ACAF. LP, while having shorter operative times, results in inferior neurological and biomechanical outcomes compared to anterior approaches. Surgical decisions require individualized assessment based on patient and OPLL characteristics.However, these findings should be interpreted with caution due to the predominance of non-randomized studies and potential selection bias.
PurposeDespite systemic antibiotics and topical vancomycin powder, deep surgical-site infections (SSIs) remain a devastating complication of major posterior spine surgery, driving morbidity, costs, and antimicrobial resistance. In this study, we aimed to compare deep surgical-site infection (SSI) incidence following major posterior spine surgery between patients receiving intraoperative hypochlorous acid (HOCl) lavage and a historical control group receiving intrawound vancomycin powder.MethodsIn this retrospective comparative study, 161 patients undergoing major posterior spinal surgery received ≥2L of topical HOCl lavage, while 88 historical controls received intra-wound vancomycin powder. The primary endpoint was deep SSI incidence within 12 months. Demographics, operative variables, and microbiological data were analyzed with rigorous statistical methods.ResultsDeep SSI rates were nearly identical: 3.1% (5/161) with HOCl versus 3.4% (3/88) with vancomycin (p = 0.999), with no HOCl-related adverse effects. Pathogen profiles (including MRSA, S. epidermidis, and E. coli) were comparable between groups, underscoring HOCl's broad-spectrum efficacy.ConclusionHOCl lavage showed similar deep SSI rates to intrawound vancomycin powder in this retrospective cohort; prospective multicenter studies are warranted to validate these findings and define optimal protocols.
BackgroundOrthopaedic infections are difficult to eradicate because biofilm and poor local vascularity limit antibiotic exposure. Continuous local antibiotic perfusion (CLAP) delivers sustained, titratable antibiotics directly into infected compartments. We used harmonised individual participant data (IPD) to quantify early effectiveness, longer-term control, safety, and patient-level modifiers.MethodsWe performed an IPD review of observational reports using CLAP as primary or adjunctive therapy (January-May 2025). The primary outcome was 30-days early response (C-reactive protein ≤3 mg/L or earliest sustained clinical/wound improvement). Secondary outcomes were durable infection control at ≥6 and ≥12 months using evaluable denominators with best-worst bounds, infection-free days) and safety. One-stage analyses used mixed-effects logistic regression; Restricted Mean Survival Time (RMST) was preferred when proportional hazards were violated. Multiple imputation supported inferences.ResultsEighty-one studies (n = 256) were included; 164 patients had observed time-to-response. Fifty-nine percent achieved a 30-days response; median time-to-response was 26 days. Implant involvement was associated with lower odds of 30-days response; trajectories were slower with implants and higher organism burden (polymicrobial ≥3), while osteomyelitis responded faster than fracture-related infection. RMST (30) showed delays with implants (+4.43 days) and polymicrobial infection (+6.74 days), and faster response for osteomyelitis versus fracture-related infection (-9.06 days). Durable control among evaluable patients was 88.4% at ≥6 months and 90.2% at ≥12 months, with best-worst bounds of 89.2-82.2% and 90.9-83.5%, respectively. Infection-free-day RMST supported substantial time free of recurrent infection within the first year. Adverse events were uncommon; renal events were generally reversible.ConclusionsCLAP achieved encouraging early response and high durability among evaluable patients, with slower trajectories when implants were retained or pathogen burden was high and faster responses in osteomyelitis. Safety appeared acceptable with monitoring. Prospective comparative studies using standardised endpoints, with RMST for non-proportional hazards, are warranted.
ObjectiveIn revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA), metaphyseal sleeves represent an effective modality for managing metaphyseal bone defects. The purpose of this study was to clearly stratify patients with different grades of metaphyseal bone defects while evaluating the mid-term clinical outcomes and survival rate of metaphyseal sleeves.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 58 patients who underwent revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) with metaphyseal sleeves between May 2018 and September 2022. Bone defects were classified using the Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute (AORI) classification system: patients with AORI type I and IIA defects were categorized as having mild bone defects, while those with AORI type IIB and III defects were defined as severe bone defects. Clinical outcomes, including the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion (ROM), Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score, Knee Society Score (KSS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Short Form-12 (SF-12) health survey, were recorded preoperatively and during the entire follow-up period. Linear mixed-effects models were employed to analyze repeated-measure outcomes, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was utilized to estimate the survivorship of metaphyseal sleeves.ResultsThe mean duration of follow-up was 66.6 months, with a range of 30 to 85 months. All clinical outcome metrics exhibited a statistically significant improvement compared with preoperative values (p < 0.001), and both the mild and severe defect groups demonstrated analogous postoperative recovery trajectories. No sleeve-related complications or failures were observed, including aseptic loosening, periprosthetic fracture, or deep periprosthetic infection. Kaplan-Meier analysis yielded an estimated 5-years metaphyseal sleeve survivorship of 100%.ConclusionThese findings demonstrate that metaphyseal sleeves provide reliable midterm fixation and significant functional improvements in patients undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA), irrespective of the severity of metaphyseal bone defects.
BackgroundRotational alignment of the tibial component is critical for successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Akagi's line is a reliable anteroposterior reference, but its intraoperative applicability may be limited when the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is not visible after tibial resection. The extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon, as an extra-articular and consistently identifiable structure, may represent a practical distal landmark. This study evaluates the anatomical relationship between Akagi's line and the EHL tendon on computed tomography (CT) and analyzes its association with tibial morphometric parameters.MethodsA descriptive correlational study was conducted on CT scans of 100 anatomically normal tibiae. Akagi's line was defined as the line connecting the center of the PCL to the medial border of the patellar tendon. Its distal projection at the tibial plafond was compared with the center of the EHL tendon. Tibial length, morphology, posterior slope, sagittal distance, and the angle of Akagi's line relative to the femoral transepicondylar axis (TEA) were measured. Two independent observers performed all measurements. Associations were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals.ResultsAkagi's line projected through the center of the EHL tendon in 60% of cases and medially in 40%, with no lateral deviations. The Akagi-EHL distance correlated strongly with tibial length (ρ = 0.71; p < 0.001) and sagittal distance (ρ = 0.70; p < 0.001), but showed no association with tibial slope. No significant correlation was observed between the Akagi-femoral TEA angle and morphometric parameters.ConclusionThe distal projection of Akagi's line consistently aligns with, or lies slightly medial to, the center of the EHL tendon. This predictable relationship supports the EHL as a reliable, extra-articular distal landmark for tibial rotational alignment in TKA when intra-articular references are obscured.Level of evidenceIV (Descriptive study).
BackgroundWhile obesity is an established risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA), the differential impacts of regional body composition is not well understood. This study aimed to examine the associations of whole-body and region-specific (arms, legs, and trunk) fat-to-muscle mass ratio (FMR) with OA prevalence, as well as the mediating effects of systemic inflammation in this relationship.MethodsData from adults aged ≥40 years were collected from the 1999-2006 & 2011-2018 cycles of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Total and region-specific FMR was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, with OA status determined by self-report. Logistic regression was used to analyze the associations between total or regional FMR and OA prevalence. Mediation analysis was conducted to determine the mediating effect of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII).ResultsAmong the 9,504 participants included, 953 (10.63%) had OA. The odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) for OA by arm, leg, trunk and total FMR were 1.122 (1.082-1.163), 1.156 (1.101-1.213), 1.142 (1.094-1.192), and 1.194 (1.131-1.260), respectively. Compared to the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of arm, leg, trunk, and total FMR had 75.4%, 115.7%, 113.6%, and 161.3% increased risk of OA, respectively. Restricted cubic spline curves indicated a linear relationship between leg, trunk and total FMR with OA. The discriminatory performances of FMR measures were modest (area under the curve 0.635-0.656). SII mediated 2.4%-2.6% of the association between FMR and OA.ConclusionA higher FMR in all body regions is associated with a higher risk of OA, which is partially mediated by systemic inflammation.
AimsThis study aims to evaluate the long-term durability of a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) implant using a fixed-bearing all-polyethylene tibial tray with a Cobalt-Chromium (Co-Cr) femoral condyle, stratified by patient age. It also aims to compare implant survivorship between inlay and onlay tibial implantation techniques.MethodsData from the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR) was used to evaluate survival of Smith & Nephew Genesis II® UKA performed between February 2000 and December 2011 in which two different tibial implant techniques (inlay and onlay) were used. The primary endpoint was revision surgery.ResultsAt a minimum follow-up of 10 years, 57 revisions were performed at an average of 6.6 years from index surgery. The revision rate per 100 component years was 1.29 (CI: 0.97 - 1.66), with a significant difference between the over-75 years cohort compared with the under-65 cohort, in favour of the older cohort (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference in survival between inlay and onlay techniques, in favour of the inlay technique (p < 0.05).ConclusionFixed-bearing all-polyethylene tibial UKA show acceptable outcomes at an average 12-year follow-up, especially in elderly patients and use of inlay tibial tray implantation technique.
BackgroundSuperior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesions are a common cause of shoulder pain and instability. Accurate diagnosis remains challenging in clinical practice. This study aims to develop and evaluate radiomics models and combined models integrating radiomics and clinical features for SLAP lesion detection.MethodsThis retrospective study included 149 patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopic surgery with preoperative shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between 2019 and 2024. Regions of interest (ROIs) were manually delineated on MRI oblique coronal proton density-weighted fat-suppressed (PD FS) images, and radiomics features were subsequently extracted from these defined regions. Feature selection employed independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Pearson correlation analysis, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Common machine learning models including Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) were employed to construct diagnostic models based on radiomics features. A combined model integrating radiomics and clinical features was developed and visualized using nomograms.ResultsIn the test cohort, the LightGBM-based radiomics model achieved optimal performance with the Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.867, sensitivity of 0.952, and specificity of 0.625. The combined model demonstrated enhanced diagnostic capability with AUC of 0.899, sensitivity of 0.762, and specificity of 0.917. Manual diagnosis of SLAP injury using MRI achieved an accuracy of 50.3%, with a sensitivity of 27.7%, specificity of 78.8%, and AUC of 0.619.ConclusionMachine learning models based on MRI radiomics features demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy compared to traditional radiologist assessment for SLAP lesions. The combined model incorporating both radiomics and clinical features provides effective risk prediction for SLAP lesions.
This study aims to evaluate the global burden of adverse effects of medical treatment (AEMT) using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021. Data were extracted from the GBD 2021, covering 204 countries/territories from 1990 to 2021. AEMT was defined using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes, encompassing complications from medical procedures, treatments, or healthcare exposures. Estimates were categorized into fatal and non-fatal outcomes and stratified by age, sex, year, and covariates, including the Socio-demographic Index (SDI). Mortality-incidence ratios (MIRs), defined as the ratio of mortality calculated by dividing the number of deaths by the total incident cases, were analyzed. In 2021, the global age-standardized prevalence, incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality rates of AEMT were 11.48 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 8.86-14.13), 150.44 (131.19-171.81), 64.19 (51.06-73.11), and 1.53 (1.29-1.68) per 100,000 population, respectively. DALY rates were highest in the early neonatal group (4,789.47 per 100,000 population [95% UI, 3,682.00-5,963.30]), while mortality rates followed a U-shaped pattern across age groups. In 2021, MIRs were highest at both ends of the age range: the early neonatal group (0.58 [95% UI, 0.55-0.58]) and the 95+ age group (0.05 [0.04-0.06]). This pattern was consistent across all SDI quintiles, with higher MIRs observed in lower SDI quintiles. The significantly higher prevalence and incidence rates of AEMT among the older population in high SDI quintiles, compared to lower SDI quintiles, could be attributed to the healthcare overutilization, highlighting the need for policy adjustments.
PurposeTo assess whether the preoperative triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is associated with 30-day surgical site infection (SSI) after instrumented posterior lumbar fusion (PLF) and to examine its predictive performance.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed consecutive adults who underwent elective one- or two-level instrumented PLF between 2017 and 2024 at a tertiary center. Patients with active infection, revision surgery, tumor, trauma, or incomplete 30-day follow-up were excluded. Preoperative fasting triglycerides and glucose were used to calculate the TyG index as ln[(triglycerides × glucose)/2]. The primary outcome was 30-day SSI defined by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated the association between TyG and SSI, and receiver operating characteristic analysis assessed discrimination and identified an optimal cut-off. Incremental predictive value was examined by comparing a clinical model with and without TyG using AUC, likelihood ratio testing, reclassification metrics, calibration, Brier score, and decision curve analysis with bootstrap internal validation.ResultsAmong 438 patients, 29 (6.6%) developed SSI (24 superficial, 2 deep, 3 organ/space). Patients with SSI had higher TyG values than non-SSI patients (9.1 ± 0.5 vs 8.6 ± 0.6; p < 0.001). Each 1-unit increase in TyG was independently associated with higher odds of SSI (adjusted odds ratio 3.65; 95% confidence interval 1.62-8.24; p = 0.002). TyG alone yielded an area under the curve of 0.73, and a cut-off of 8.80 identified a high-risk group with an SSI rate of 11.8% versus 2.5% in the low-TyG group. Beyond standard clinical factors, adding TyG improved model fit (LRT χ2 = 10.98; p = 0.001) and improved reclassification.ConclusionA higher preoperative TyG index is independently associated with 30-day SSI after PLF and provides moderate discriminative ability as a simple predictor. Incorporating TyG into preoperative risk assessment may help refine perioperative optimization and infection surveillance strategies in lumbar fusion surgery.
BackgroundThe optimal positioning range for the femoral component in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) performed in osteoporotic bone remains undefined. Most existing biomechanical studies have been established using normal bone quality models, whereas limited evidence addresses abnormal bone conditions. Complications involving the operative-side compartment are closely associated with the high revision rates after UKA.MethodsCT and MRI scans of the right knee of a volunteer without pathological changes were used to construct a three-dimensional finite element model. A normal bone quality UKA model (NB group) was created, and an osteoporotic model (OP group) was generated by reducing the elastic modulus of bone tissue proportionally. Femoral component alignment was set at 0°, as well as 3°, 6°, and 9° of varus and valgus. Stress changes within operative-side structures were quantified and compared between the two models.Results(1) In both models, peak stress on the femoral component increased progressively with greater varus alignment, with the OP group consistently demonstrating higher stress values than the NB group. Compared to their respective 0° neutral position, the peak von Mises stress on the femoral component surface increased by 71.8% and 70.8% at 9° of varus in the NB and OP groups, respectively. (2) Peak stresses on the PE insert and on the cortical bone beneath the tibial component increased with both varus and valgus malalignment; the increase was more pronounced under varus. The OP group exhibited higher peak stresses and greater incremental changes than the NB group. Compared to their respective 0° neutral position, the peak von Mises stress on the cortical bone surface beneath the tibial component increased by 50.0% in the NB group and 40.8% in the OP group at 9° varus, and by 14.2% and 27.0%, respectively, at 9° valgus.ConclusionEven small coronal-plane deviations (±3°) in femoral component positioning during medial UKA may substantially elevate stresses within the operative-side compartment. Strict control of coronal alignment is essential to avoid varus or valgus and prevent abnormal stress concentrations around the implant. Additionally, the impact of osteoporosis on postoperative biomechanical stability warrants careful consideration to optimize implant design and surgical technique, thereby reducing the risks of aseptic loosening, periprosthetic fracture, and improving long-term outcomes.
Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a frequently performed surgery for restoring function in patients with severe knee osteoarthritis. TKA is associated with significant healthcare costs, partly due to complications leading to readmissions. This study aimed to identify biomarkers predictive of readmission after TKA. Data of adult patients who underwent primary TKA between 2014 and 2022 extracted from the Chang Gung Medical Research Database were retrospectively reviewed. Associations between the monocyte-to-albumin ratio (MAR), red cell distribution with (RDW)-to-albumin ratio (RAR), hemoglobin-to-albumin ratio (HAR), leukocyte-to-albumin ratio (LAR), and platelet-to-albumin ratio (PAR) with 14-day readmission were determined using univariate and multivariable regression analyses. A score termed the 'MAR-LAR-PAR' score was developed using the combination of these 3 markers, and its prognostic value was assessed. Data from 1,137 patients were included. Elevated MAR (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08-2.89, p = 0.022), LAR (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.02-2.45, p = 0.039), and PAR (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.12-3.15, p = 0.016) were significantly associated with increased risk of 14-day readmission. The highest MAR-LAR-PAR score (score = 3) was significantly associated with 14-day readmission compared to score = 0 (aOR = 4.24, 95% CI: 1.91-9.44, p < 0.001). This study highlights the potential of MAR, LAR, PAR, and the score based on their combination, as significant predictors of short-term readmission following TKA. Incorporating these biomarkers into preoperative assessment may help determine the risk of readmission, and provide additional care for these patients.