The Journal of arthroplasty
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The aim of this study is to investigate which anesthetic technique is superior on 30-day outcomes after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in United States veteran patients. To our knowledge, this is the first account from the Veterans Health Administration comparing the effects of different anesthesia modalities in patients undergoing TKA. ⋯ Veteran patients undergoing TKA under neuraxial anesthesia had reduced postoperative complications and decreased hospitalization stay compared to patients undergoing general anesthesia.
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The economic impact of hip fractures on the health care system continues to rise with continued pressure to reduce unnecessary costs while maintaining quality patient care. This study aimed to analyze the trend in hospital charges and payments relative to surgeon charges and payments in a Medicare population for hip hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty (THA) for femoral neck fracture. ⋯ Hospital charges and payments relative to surgeon charges and payments have increased substantially for hemiarthroplasty and THA performed for femoral neck fractures.
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The American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification 4 (ASA PS 4) comprises patients with "severe systemic disease that is a constant threat to life." The purpose of this study is to conduct a retrospective analysis to report the rate of complications in the ASA PS 4 patients who undergo elective total joint arthroplasty (TJA). In addition, we report whether neuraxial anesthesia is associated with improved outcomes compared to general anesthesia in these patients. ⋯ The elevated risks for ASA PS 4 patients undergoing TJA may be too high to justify surgery. Neuraxial anesthesia is a reasonable alternative to general anesthesia if pursuing TJA in patients with a very high comorbidity burden.
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Meta Analysis
The Efficacy and Safety of Opioids in Total Joint Arthroplasty: Systematic Review and Direct Meta-Analysis.
Opioids are frequently used to treat pain after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of opioids in primary TJA to support the combined clinical practice guidelines of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Hip Society, Knee Society, and the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Management. ⋯ Moderate evidence supports the use of opioids in TJA to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Opioids should be used cautiously as they may increase the risk of complications, such as respiratory depression and sedation, especially if combined with other central nervous system depressants or used in the elderly.
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The Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool (RAPT) was developed and validated to predict discharge disposition after primary total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA). To date, there are no studies evaluating the applicability and accuracy of RAPT for revision THA/TKA. This study aims to determine the predictive accuracy of the RAPT for revision THA/TKA. ⋯ The RAPT has high predictive accuracy for discharge planning in revision THA/TKA patients. Patient-expected discharge destination is a powerful modulator of the RAPT score and we suggest that it be taken into consideration for preoperative discharge planning.