Showing papers by "Martin Stevens published in 2023"

Factors Associated With Nonunion in Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract: Background: Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is the current treatment of choice for symptomatic advanced hallux rigidus and moderate-to-severe hallux valgus. There are different methods to perform arthrodesis, yet no consensus on the best approach. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects of preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus angle (HVA), joint preparation and fixation technique, and postoperative immobilization on the incidence of nonunion. Methods: A retrospective multicenter cohort study was performed that included 794 patients. Univariate and multiple logistic regression was conducted to determine associations between joint preparation, fixation techniques, postoperative immobilization, weightbearing, and pre- and postoperative HVA with nonunion. Results: Nonunion incidence was 15.2%, with 11.1% symptomatic and revised. Joint preparation using hand instruments (OR 3.75, CI 1.90-7.42) and convex/concave reamers (OR 2.80, CI 1.52-5.16) were associated with greater odds of a nonunion compared to planar cuts. Joint fixation with crossed screws was associated with greater odds of nonunion (OR 2.00, CI 1.11-3.42), as was greater preoperative HVA (OR 1.02, CI 1.00-1.03). However, the latter effect disappeared after inclusion of postoperative HVA in the model, with a small association identified between residual postoperative HVA and nonunion (OR 1.04, CI 1.01-1.08). Similarly, we found an association between odds of nonunion and higher body weight (OR 1.02, CI 1.01-1.04) but not of body mass index. Conclusion: Based on our results, first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with planar cuts and fixation with a plate and interfragmentary screw is associated with the lowest odds of resulting in a nonunion. Higher body weight and greater preoperative HVA were associated with slight increase in rates of nonunion. It is crucial to properly correct the hallux valgus deformity during surgery. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective case control study.

Influence of health system and patient characteristics on expectations and outcome in total hip arthroplasty patients in the Dutch-German border region: protocol for a mixed-methods prospective observational comparative study (hip across)

Abstract: Introduction Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the treatment of choice for end-stage osteoarthritis of the hip. Management of THA differs between countries, and it is hypothesised that this can influence patients’ expectations and self-efficacy. Using Chen’s intervening mechanism evaluation approach, this study aims to explore how structure of care influences expectations and self-efficacy of patients undergoing THA, and how expectations and self-efficacy in turn influence outcome in terms of perceived physical function and satisfaction. Methods and analysis A mixed-methods study will be conducted in two German and two Dutch hospitals near the Dutch-German border. In the quantitative part, patients will complete questionnaires at three timepoints: preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Data analysis will include multiple regression analysis and structural equation modelling. In the qualitative part, interviews will be held with patients (preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively) and healthcare providers. Analysis will be performed using structured qualitative content analysis. Ethics and dissemination The study is approved by the Institutional Review Boards of both Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg (2021–167) and University Medical Center Groningen (METc 2021/562 and METc 2021/601). The results will be disseminated in the international scientific community via publications and conference presentations. Trial registration number The study is registered in the German Clinical Trials Registry (DRKS: DRKS00026744).

Non-union incidence of different joint preparation types, joint fixation techniques, and postoperative weightbearing protocols for arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in moderate-to-severe hallux valgus: a systematic review

Abstract: Purpose A systematic review to determine the effect of different types of joint preparation, joint fixation, and postoperative weight-bearing protocols on non-union frequency in first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus. Material and methods A systematic literature search (PubMed and EMBASE), adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data on MTPJ preparation, fixation, weight-bearing, and non-union in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus were collected. Quality assessment was performed using the Coleman Methodology Score. Results Sixteen studies (934 feet) were included, generally of medium quality. Overall non-union rate was 7.7%. At 6.3%, convex/concave joint preparation had the lowest non-union rate vs 12.2% for hand instruments and 22.2% for planar cuts. Non-union of 2.8% was found for joint fixation with a plate combined with a lag screw vs 6.5% for plate fixation, 11.1% for crossed screw fixation, and 12.5% for a plate with a cross plate compression screw. A 5.1% non-union frequency was found following postoperative full weight-bearing on a flat shoe vs 9.3% for full weight-bearing on a heel weight-bearing shoe and 0% for a partial weight-bearing regimen. Conclusion Based on medium-quality papers, joint preparation with convex/concave reamers and joint fixation with a plate using a lag screw show the lowest non-union rate. Full postoperative weight-bearing in a stiff-soled postoperative shoe is safe and not associated with non-union vs a more protective load-bearing regimen. Further research should focus on larger sample sizes, longer follow-ups, and stronger study designs.

Effectiveness of rehabilitation for working-age patients after a total hip arthroplasty: a comparison of usual care between the Netherlands and Germany

Abstract: Postoperative rehabilitation after primary total hip arthroplasty (p-THA) differs between the Netherlands and Germany. Aim is to compare clinical effectiveness and to get a first impression of cost effectiveness of Dutch versus German usual care after p-THA.A transnational prospective controlled observational trial. Clinical effectiveness was assessed with self-reported questionnaires and functional tests. Measurements were taken preoperatively and 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months postoperatively. For cost effectiveness, long-term economic aspects were assessed from a societal perspective.124 working-age patients finished the measurements. German usual care leads to a significantly larger proportion (65.6% versus 47.5%) of satisfied patients 12 weeks postoperatively and significantly better self-reported function and Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST) results. German usual care is generally 45% more expensive than Dutch usual care, and 20% more expensive for working-age patients. A scenario analysis assumed that German patients work the same number of hours as the Dutch, and that productivity costs are the same. This analysis revealed German care is still more expensive but the difference decreased to 8%.German rehabilitation is clinically advantageous yet more expensive, although comparisons are less straightforward as the socioeconomic context differs between the two countries.The study is registered in the German Registry of Clinical Trials (DRKS00011345, 18/11/2016).

Effectiveness and therapeutic validity of physiotherapeutic exercise starting within one year following total and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis: a systematic review

Abstract: Abstract Background To determine the effectiveness and therapeutic validity of physiotherapeutic exercise after total and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis. It was hypothesized that interventions of high therapeutic validity result in superior functional recovery after total and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty versus interventions of low therapeutic validity. Methods A systematic review incorporating a comprehensive database search of five major databases relevant to the topic was conducted. Randomized controlled trials were reviewed if they included studies that compared postoperative physiotherapeutic exercise with usual care or compared two types of postoperative physiotherapeutic interventions. All included studies were assessed for risk of bias (using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool) and therapeutic validity (using the Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise Training scale). The characteristics of the included articles and their results on joint and muscle function, functional performance, and participation were extracted. Results Of the 4343 unique records retrieved, 37 articles were included. Six of them showed good therapeutic validity, suggesting low therapeutic validity in 31 studies. Three articles showed a low risk of bias, 15 studies scored some concerns for risk of bias and 19 studies scored high risk of bias. Only one article scored well on both methodological quality and therapeutic validity. Conclusion Due to heterogeneity of outcome measures and length of follow-up, as well as limited reporting of details of the physiotherapeutic exercises and control interventions, no clear evidence was found on effectiveness of physiotherapeutic exercises after total and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. Homogeneity in intervention characteristics and outcome measures would enhance comparability of clinical outcomes between trials. Future studies should incorporate similar methodological approaches and outcome measures. Researchers are encouraged to use the Consensus on Therapeutic Exercise Training scale as a template to prevent insufficient reporting.

Elbow joint biomechanics during ADL focusing on total elbow arthroplasty - a scoping review

Abstract: Overloading is hypothesized to be one of the failure mechanisms following total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). It is unclear whether the current post-operative loading instruction is compliant with reported failure mechanisms. Aim is therefore to evaluate the elbow joint load during activities of daily living (ADL) and compare these loads with reported failure limits from retrieval and finite element studies.A scoping review of studies until 23 November 2021 investigating elbow joint load during ADL were identified by searching PubMed/Medline and Web of Science. Studies were eligible when: (1) reporting on the elbow joint load in native elbows or elbows with an elbow arthroplasty in adults; (2) full-text article was available.Twenty-eight studies with a total of 256 participants were included. Methodological quality was low in 3, moderate in 22 and high in 3 studies. Studies were categorized as 1) close to the body and 2) further away from the body. Tasks were then subdivided into: 1) cyclic flexion/extension, 2) push-up, 3) reaching, 4) self-care, 5) work. Mean flexion-extension joint load was 17 Nm, mean varus-valgus joint load 9 Nm, mean pronation-supination joint load 8 Nm and mean bone-on-bone contact force 337 N.The results of our scoping review give a first overview of the current knowledge on elbow joint loads during ADL. Surprisingly, the current literature is not sufficient to formulate a postoperative instruction for elbow joint loading, which is compliant with failure limits of the prosthesis. In addition, our current instruction does not appear to be evidence-based. Our recommendations offer a starting point to assist clinicians in providing informed decisions about post-operative instructions for their patients.

Implementing lifestyle-related treatment modalities in osteoarthritis care: Identification of implementation strategies using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research-Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change matching tool.

Abstract: AIMS Despite recommendations in international clinical guidelines, lifestyle-related treatment modalities (LRTMs) are currently underutilised in the conservative treatment of patients with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis. This study aimed to identify implementation strategies in order to address barriers to implementing LRTMs from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs). METHODS The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)-Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) Implementation Strategy Matching Tool was applied. First, previously identified influencing factors among primary and secondary HCPs were mapped onto the corresponding CFIR constructs/subconstructs by two researchers. Second, the CFIR-based barriers relevant for all HCPs were entered into the tool. Third, the CFIR-based barriers specific to one or more subgroups of HCPs served as additional input for the tool. Finally, a selection of ERIC implementation strategies was made based on the tool's output. RESULTS Fourteen implementation strategies were selected. The strategy most endorsed by the tool was 'build a coalition'. Eight of the selected strategies belonged to the ERIC cluster 'develop stakeholder interrelationships'. Other strategies were part of the clusters 'use evaluative and iterative strategies' (n = 3), 'utilise financial strategies' (n = 2), and 'engage consumers' (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS The findings emphasise the importance of an interdisciplinary approach when addressing the implementation of LRTMs in osteoarthritis care. The final selection of implementation strategies forms the basis for a tailored implementation plan. Future work should focus on further operationalising the implementation strategies and evaluating the effectiveness of the resulting implementation plan.