The journal of knee surgery
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Optimal pain control in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is imperative for good rehabilitation and functional outcomes. However, despite technological advancements, surgeons continue to struggle with adequate pain management in their patients. Current modalities in use, such as patient-controlled analgesia, opioids, and epidural anesthetics, provide good pain relief but can be associated with side effects and serious complications. ⋯ Evidence suggests that analgesics, such as newer oral medications, peripheral nerve blocks, and periarticular injections, may improve pain management, rehabilitation, and patient satisfaction, as well as reduce opioid consumption. The literature has also highlighted that a multimodal approach to pain management may provide the best results. However, determining which modalities provide superior pain control is still being extensively studied, and further research is needed.
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Fractures involving the posterior aspect of the tibial plateau are challenging fractures to treat. Articular depression in tibial plateau fractures is usually addressed by elevation of the fragment(s), filling the residual defect with bone graft or bone substitute, and "raft" support of the articular fracture reduction with screws through a medially and/or laterally based plate. ⋯ To obtain the goals of anatomic reduction and stable fixation, a thorough understanding of the fracture, specific approaches, reduction techniques, and stabilization strategies is needed. This article reviews the most current strategies for treating tibial plateau fracture patients with posterior articular depression.
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Tibial plateau fractures involving the posterolateral articular surface present a unique challenge to treating surgeons due to the complex anatomy of the region. The posterolateral corner complex and the proximity of the common peroneal nerve restrict both the exposure of the joint surface and the ability to distract across the joint using a varus force. Further, injury to the soft tissue envelope may prevent use of the optimal surgical incision. ⋯ In this article, we highlight five surgical approaches that can be utilized to improve visualization and access to the posterolateral tibial plateau. These include three separate osteotomies performed through an anterolateral approach: lateral femoral epicondyle osteotomy, fibular head resection osteotomy, and a novel digastric fibular osteotomy. In addition, we will discuss a posterolateral approach and a direct posterior approach.
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Primary or revision total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) may be associated with a marked amount of intraoperative or postoperative blood loss that potentially may lead to the need for blood transfusions. However, Jehovah's Witnesses usually refuse blood transfusions because of their religious beliefs. ⋯ In this report, we provide an overview of various potential preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative blood management measures that may be used for the care of Jehovah's Witnesses who undergo knee arthroplasty procedures. In addition, we review reported outcomes of primary and revision TKAs in these patients.
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Elective total knee arthroplasty is frequently associated with considerable blood loss and a concomitant decline in hemoglobin postoperatively. This often leads to high rates of allogeneic transfusions, with reports of up to 69%, to treat postoperative anemia. Allogeneic blood transfusions have been shown to be an independent risk factor for increased adverse outcomes, such as prolonged length of hospital stay and postoperative infections. ⋯ Specifically, we evaluated preoperative autologous blood donation, iron therapy, and intravenous erythropoietin. Current evidence suggests that these techniques independently may be effective at reducing the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusions, correcting preoperative, and preventing postoperative anemia. However, more studies are necessary to evaluate combination protocols, as well as the cost-effectiveness and safety of these practices as part of routine preoperative blood management for total knee arthroplasty.