Search Results (159)

Total hip replacement (THR) is a common procedure used in veterinary medicine to treat hip joint diseases, particularly in medium- and large-sized dogs. Although cementless techniques have become the standard owing to concerns regarding the aseptic loosening of cemented implants, complications such as stem fractures can still occur. This study reports a case of a 1-year-old, 2.8 kg Toy Poodle that underwent cementless THR using the Zurich mini-cementless hip system to treat Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease. Six months post-surgery, the dog developed a fractured stem, and a second surgery was performed using the “window technique” to replace the broken stem. The procedure involved creating a small window in the femoral cortex to remove the damaged stem and insert a new one. The dog recovered successfully with no further lameness. This case highlights the effectiveness of the window technique for stem replacement in small dogs and emphasizes the importance of optimal stem selection and positioning during the initial THR. Full article

Background: The main feature of osteoarthritis (OA) is the deterioration of articular cartilage, but numerous studies have demonstrated the role of synovial inflammation in the early stages of the disease, leading to further progression of OA. The WNT signaling pathway is involved in numerous activities in joint tissue, but there is a lack of evidence considering the role of WNT in OA synovitis. Our research aims to investigate the expression of WNT Family Member 5A/B (WNT5A/B), β-catenin, acetyl-α-tubulin, Dishevelled-1 (DVL-1), and Inversin (INV) in the synovial membrane of osteoarthritis (OA) hips. Methods: The immunohistochemical expressions of the aforementioned proteins in the synovial membrane were analyzed and compared with samples of control group participants with fractured femoral necks. Results: The immunoexpression of acetyl-α-tubulin was significantly increased in the intima (p < 0.0001) and subintima (p < 0.0001) of the group with OA compared with the intima and subintima of the control group. At the same time, acetyl-α-tubulin was also more highly expressed in the intima of the OA group than in the subintima of the OA group (p < 0.05); we found the same expression pattern in the control group (p < 0.0001). The differential analysis of the GEO dataset did not show significant differences between the osteoarthritis (OA) and control groups in the expression of TUBA1A. β-catenin was significantly increased in the subintima (p < 0.01) of the group with OA compared to the subintima of the control group. WNT expression has significantly higher positivity in the subintima than in the intima, especially in the control group (p < 0.01). WNT5A and WNT5B were significantly down-regulated in OA compared to the control in the differential analysis of the GEO dataset. The expression of INV and DVL-1 in our study and the differential analysis of the GEO dataset did not differ significantly between the osteoarthritis (OA) and control groups. Conclusions: Based on our results, we suggest that acetyl-α-tubulin and β-catenin might be involved in synovial membrane inflammation in OA and serve as potential therapeutic targets. Full article

Background/Objectives: Femoral head avascular necrosis (FAN) is a serious orthopedic disorder that causes the death of bone tissue as the outcome of the occlusion or insufficiency of the vessels supplying blood to the femoral head. It is especially common in middle-aged men. Factors such as alcohol consumption, corticosteroid use, trauma, and systemic diseases have influential roles in the development of FAN, and the ensuing vascular disruptions can also negatively affect the patient’s broader systemic vascular health. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition caused by an impairment in penile blood flow, which reduces quality of life in men and has psychosocial effects. This study examined the potential relationship between FAN and ED in consideration of the similar pathophysiological mechanisms of these conditions. Methods: The research was planned as a retrospective case–control study and conducted between January 2020 and December 2023. FAN was diagnosed based on the Ficat–Arlet classification using plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging, and staging was performed with expert clinical evaluations. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scale was administered to evaluate ED. Data from 50 patients with FAN and 50 healthy men were evaluated using appropriate statistical methods, including univariate comparisons and correlation analysis. Results: The analysis demonstrated a significant association between increasing FAN stages and greater severity of erectile dysfunction (ED). ED was identified in 35 out of 50 patients in the FAN group (70%), compared to 15 out of 50 individuals in the control group (30%). This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05), indicating a substantially higher prevalence of ED in patients with FAN. A significant negative correlation was also observed between the FAN stage and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores (Spearman’s rho = −0.631; p = 0.001). The mean IIEF score was 23.4 in patients with FAN stage 1, which declined to 9.6 in those with stage 4, reflecting a marked deterioration in erectile function with advancing FAN stages. No statistically significant difference was found in the age distribution between the FAN and control groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that, with the progression of FAN, systemic vascular deterioration affects penile blood flow, increasing the severity of ED. This finding highlights the common pathophysiological mechanisms of FAN and ED and reveals the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. This relationship should be examined in detail with larger samples and prospective designs in future studies. Full article

Background: THA is a widely performed surgical procedure that improves mobility and quality of life in patients with hip joint diseases. The increasing prevalence of obesity has led to a rise in the number of patients undergoing THA following bariatric surgery. This study investigates trends in THA among patients with a history of bariatric surgery, comparing demographics, hospitalization metrics, post-operative complications, and overall surgical outcomes to those without such history. Methods: Using the NIS database (2016–2019), we analyzed a cohort of 1,496,809 THA patients, including 20,429 with a history of bariatric surgery. Propensity score matching was employed to control for confounding factors, resulting in a matched cohort of 20,429 patients in each group. Statistical analyses compared demographic characteristics, comorbidities, hospitalization outcomes, and post-operative complications, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: The proportion of THA patients with prior bariatric surgery increased significantly between 2016 and 2019 (p < 0.01). Compared to those without a history of bariatric surgery, these patients were younger (60.3 vs. 66.0 years, p < 0.01) and predominantly female (75.0% vs. 55.5%, p < 0.01). After PSM, patients with a history of bariatric surgery had a shorter hospital stay (2.17 vs. 2.37 days, p = 0.027) but incurred higher hospital charges ($63,631 vs. $62,883, p < 0.01). Post-operative complications were significantly higher in this group, with increased risks of hip dislocation (RR = 4.0, 95% CI: 3.4–4.8, p < 0.01), surgical site infection (RR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.8–2.4, p < 0.01), pneumonia (RR = 2.5, 95% CI: 2.1–2.8, p < 0.01), and intraoperative fracture (RR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.3–2.0, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The rising prevalence of THA in post-bariatric surgery patients highlights the need for optimized perioperative care. Despite shorter hospital stays, these patients face higher complication risks, requiring tailored management. Further research should explore alternative weight management strategies to improve outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: This scoping review explores the relationship between ultra-processed food (UPF), bone health, and joint diseases, focusing on its potential impact on bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), gout, and spondyloarthritis. Methods: A search strategy was developed using key terms such as “ultra-processed food” and related terms like “fast food,” alongside various definitions of bone health impairment, chronic degenerative joint diseases, and inflammatory arthritis. Results: A total of 19 studies were included: 12 on bone health, 3 on osteoarthritis, and 4 on inflammatory arthritis. Preclinical studies showed that UPF consumption negatively affects bone structure and strength. In studies on children and adults, four investigations (2013–2017) found no association between fast food intake and BMD. However, more recent large-scale cross-sectional studies linked higher UPF consumption to lower BMD, increased osteoporosis risk, and greater prevalence of osteopenia, particularly in postmenopausal women. UPF intake was associated with knee osteoarthritis risk, with evidence suggesting an interaction with cartilage thickness, though no association was found for hip osteoarthritis. In inflammatory arthritis, UK Biobank data indicated a higher risk of RA and gout in UPF consumers, while a Brazilian study reported worse metabolic profiles in RA patients. No significant differences in UPF intake were found in spondyloarthritis. Conclusions: This review highlights relevant considerations about the deleterious role of UPF on bone health and joint diseases, providing additional evidence to suggest healthier dietary patterns to patients and to the general population. Full article

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a widely performed procedure to restore hip function in patients with degenerative joint diseases. Traditional “press-fit” fixation methods rely on sufficient bone quality for stability, but additional screw fixation is often necessary for patients with suboptimal bone conditions. However, comprehensive studies utilizing predictive modeling to optimize screw placement strategies in THA remain limited. This study integrates finite element analysis (FEA) with deep learning (DL) to optimize screw fixation strategies, enhancing implant stability and reducing revision rates. The design optimization process was conducted to refine key implant parameters before training the deep learning surrogate model. By utilizing advanced simulation techniques—including Goodness of Fit analysis, Response Graphs, Local Sensitivity Analysis, and Spider Charts—critical factors influencing stress distribution and fixation stability were identified. The optimization process ensured that the dataset used for deep learning training consisted of well-validated simulations, thereby improving the predictive accuracy of stress–strain responses. The findings indicate that optimized screw placement significantly improves load distribution, reducing stress concentrations and enhancing long-term implant stability. The comparative analysis of FEA and DL results showed that the DL-FEA surrogate model successfully replicated deformation patterns, though with a mean squared error (MSE) of 24.06%. While this suggests room for improvement, the model demonstrates potential for streamlining surgical planning. A comparative assessment with traditional methods highlights the advantages of DL-FEA in reducing computational time while maintaining precision. Future improvements will focus on refining the DL model, increasing the dataset size, and incorporating clinical validation. These findings contribute to developing a computational protocol for personalized acetabular cup fixation, with implications for reducing revision rates and improving surgical outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) has led to favorable clinical results since the introduction of locking plates. Surgical indications, techniques, and postoperative alignment are crucial for achieving favorable clinical outcomes. This study analyzed the clinical outcomes of patients after >5 years of post-MOWHTO follow-up to identify the influential factors. Methods: Thirty-nine patients (48 knees) underwent MOWHTO for medial compartment knee osteoarthritis or -necrosis and were followed up for >5 years. The targeted postoperative % mechanical axis (%MA) was 62.5% (Fujisawa point). The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) Knee Disease Outcome Criteria score; Kellgren–Lawrence classification; hip-knee-ankle, medial proximal tibial, mechanical lateral distal femoral, and joint line convergence angles (JLCA); and %MA were evaluated preoperatively, at implant removal, and at the final follow-up. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was the survival endpoint. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the factors influencing survival rates. Results: The mean JOA score improved from preoperative to implant removal and was sustained at 102 months. Four of the 48 knees required TKA, resulting in a 10-year survival rate of 82%. Body mass index, preoperative JLCA, and Δ%MA influenced the post-MOWHTO survival rate. The Δ%MA was significantly greater in the group with a %MA < 62.5% at implant removal. Conclusions: MOWHTO with a target %MA of 62.5% yielded favorable long-term outcomes. Additionally, preoperative obesity and high joint instability negatively influenced post-MOWHTO survival. Furthermore, a postoperative %MA of < 62.5% is associated with difficulty maintaining stable alignment and an increased risk of conversion to TKA. Full article

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of proprioceptive studies according to radiological stages in patients with knee osteoarthritis and to determine at which stage of the disease it should be added to the rehabilitation program. Materials and Methods: This study is a prospective clinical trial. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (name of the registry: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Training According to Radiological Stages in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis; trial registration number: NCT06150170; date of registration: 21 November 2023). The patients were divided into two groups, which were Grade 1–2 (Group 1) and Grade 3–4 (Group 2) knee osteoarthritis. Both groups underwent a strengthening plus proprioception exercise 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Our primary scale was the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis (WOMAC) scale. The secondary outcome measures were pain intensity level, proprioception, range of motion, muscle strength, physical performance, physical activity, quality of life and patient satisfaction. All evaluations were performed twice, before treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment. Conclusions: After treatment, there were significant improvements in pain, range of motion, proprioception, muscle strength, functionality, physical performance and quality of life in both groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the total WOMAC scores among groups after treatment (p = 0.086). There was more improvement in hip external rotation range of motion in Group 1 (p = 0.022). No significant difference was found in other secondary outcomes (p > 0.05). As a result of this study, we found that proprioceptive training was effective on pain, joint position sense, range of motion, muscle strength, functionality, physical performance and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis in all radiological stages. However, there was no difference between the groups, except for hip external rotation angles. Full article

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and debilitating joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration for which no definitive cure exists. Conventional management approaches often rely on fragmented and poorly coordinated pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions that are inconsistently applied throughout the disease course. Persistent controversies regarding the clinical efficacy of chondroprotective agents, frequently highlighted by pharmacovigilance agencies, underscore the need for a structured evidence-based approach. Emerging evidence suggests that synchronizing pharmacotherapy and exercise regimens with circadian biology may optimize therapeutic outcomes by addressing early pathological processes, including low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, and matrix degradation. Recognizing the influence of the chondrocyte clock on these processes, this study proposes a ‘prototype’ for a novel framework that leverages the circadian rhythm-aligned administration of traditional chondroprotective agents along with tailored, accessible exercise protocols to mitigate cartilage breakdown and support joint function. In addition, this model-based framework emphasizes the interdependence between cartilage chronobiology and time-of-day-dependent responses to exercise, where strategically timed joint activity enhances nutrient and waste exchange, mitigates mitochondrial dysfunction, supports cellular metabolism, and promotes tissue maintenance, whereas nighttime rest promotes cartilage rehydration and repair. This time-sensitive, comprehensive approach aims to slow OA progression, reduce structural damage, and delay invasive procedures, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip. However, significant challenges remain, including inter-individual variability in circadian rhythms, a lack of reliable biomarkers for pharmacotherapeutic monitoring, and limited clinical evidence supporting chronoexercise protocols. Future large-scale, longitudinal trials are critical to evaluate the efficacy and scalability of this rational integrative strategy, paving the way for a new era in OA management. Full article

Background: Joint pain, a multifactorial musculoskeletal symptom, is rising globally due to an aging population. Simultaneously, cancer is increasingly considered a chronic condition with growing prevalence and improved survival rates, similar to hypertension and diabetes. Although the association between chronic diseases such as diabetes and joint pain has been well studied, the relationship between cancer and joint pain remains underexplored, especially as cancer’s chronic disease status evolves. Methods: This study analyzed data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES V) to investigate associations between cancer and joint pain in 8,451,047 individuals, representing Koreans over 50. Descriptive analyses identified demographic characteristics and disparities in joint pain prevalence by age and sex. Multivariate logistic regression analyzed seven common cancers in relation to spine, hip, and knee pain, adjusting for various factors and the Kellgren–Lawrence radiographic grade to pinpoint cancers significantly associated with each joint pain type. Results: Analysis demonstrated significant associations between certain cancers and joint pain. Back pain was linked to gastric, liver, cervical, and lung cancers; hip pain to breast and thyroid cancers; and knee pain to liver cancer. These findings underline complex relationships that suggest further investigation is needed to clarify specific cancer-related joint pain mechanisms. Conclusions: Descriptive and regression analyses highlighted essential demographic factors and significant associations between certain cancers and joint pain types. These insights enhance understanding of cancer’s chronic impact on joint pain and underscore the need for further research to refine these associations. Full article

Background: Hip joint pain due to arthritis is a prevalent issue in adults, often necessitating surgical intervention such as total hip arthroplasty (THA). This procedure has been celebrated for its reliability; however, successful outcomes depend on numerous factors. Current advancements are focused on improving implant design and surgical methodologies. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term clinical and functional outcomes of uncemented total hip arthroplasty utilizing the L-Cup acetabular component. Methods: Between February 1999 and November 2010, 351 L-Cup components were implanted in 315 patients. A follow-up period ranged from 14 to 25 years. The clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Merle d’Aubigné and Postel (MAP) classification and patient satisfaction was measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results: Postoperative evaluations showed significant improvement, with VAS scores decreasing from a mean of 7.2 to 2.1, indicating substantial pain alleviation. The modified MAP classification showed a significant improvement of 6.3 points throughout the follow-up period. The results revealed that 49.5% of the cases were classified as excellent, while 20.5% had poor outcomes due to prosthesis loosening. According to the Kaplan–Meier estimator, the 5-year survival rate for the acetabular component was 97.78%, with survival rates of 90.5% at 10 years, 80.45% at 15 years, and 73.79% at 20 years. Conclusions: Total hip arthroplasty is an effective treatment for advanced degenerative joint diseases. While significant postoperative improvements were documented, the observed prosthesis loosening in 20.5% of cases raises concerns about the long-term effectiveness of the L-Cup acetabular component and suggests the need for further refinement in surgical techniques and implant design. Full article

Hip dysplasia (HD) is a prevalent disease in medium- to large-breed dogs, characterized by joint laxity and degenerative joint changes. The early diagnosis of HD poses significant challenges, as radiographic imaging often identifies the disease only in advanced stages. Conversely, ultrasonography, a non-invasive and cost-effective imaging modality, offers the potential for earlier detection by evaluating the surrounding soft tissues and synovial changes. This study aimed to assess the relationship between the ventral hip ultrasonographic findings, and hip joint laxity evaluated through stress radiographs on 22 young Estrela Mountain dogs (n = 44 hips) aged 4 to 8 months. Key ultrasound measurements included synovial fluid in the cranial femoral neck recess (CFNR) and capsular-synovial fold thickness (CFT). Radiographic laxity was estimated by measuring the distraction index (DI). The median (quartile 25–75%) of the CFNR area, CFT, and DI were 44.00 (27.00–52.25) mm², 3.10 (2.68–3.55) mm, and 0.38 (0.34–0.40), respectively. The Spearman correlation coefficient was statistically significant between all of these variables (p < 0.05). The ventral ultrasonographic approach to the hip joint revealed potential, considering the early diagnosis of HD in dogs, by showing relationships between changes in periarticular soft tissues and joint laxity. Further studies are needed to associate ultrasonographic findings with radiographic signs of HD and related clinical signs in dogs. Full article

Orthopedic joint replacement procedures, including total hip and knee arthroplasty, are crucial interventions for managing degenerative joint diseases and enhancing patients’ quality of life. Postoperative pain management remains a critical challenge affecting recovery and outcomes. Recognizing pain management as pivotal in patient care, this systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) in orthopedic surgeries. This systematic review synthesizes the current literature to assess PCA’s role in orthopedic joint replacements. Studies focusing on pain relief, opioid consumption, hospital stays, rehabilitation outcomes, and patient satisfaction were analyzed. Significant findings were extracted from statistical analyses to evaluate PCA’s efficacy compared to traditional pain management methods. PCA significantly improves postoperative pain relief (p < 0.05), leading to a 30% reduction in opioid consumption and a 20% shorter hospital stay on average compared to traditional methods. Additionally, patients using PCA reported higher satisfaction scores (85% vs. 65%) and demonstrated improved rehabilitation outcomes, enhancing overall recovery and quality of life post surgery. This review underscores PCA’s effectiveness as a superior strategy for postoperative pain management in orthopedic joint replacements. By reducing pain, opioid use, and hospitalization duration and enhancing rehabilitation outcomes, PCA contributes significantly to improving patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Full article

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and progressive joint disease, leading to functional limitations and significantly impairing the quality of life. Muscle weakness, reduced mobility, and compensatory biomechanical changes are common consequences, further exacerbating functional decline. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hip osteoarthritis on muscle functionality and to evaluate the effectiveness of hip arthroplasty using the MyotonPro device to measure key biomechanical parameters, i.e., tension, stiffness, and flexibility. Methods: This cohort study included 40 patients (17 women and 23 men; mean age 64.55 ± 10.49 years) with advanced hip OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grade III–IV) undergoing hip arthroplasty. Measurements of muscle tension (F), stiffness (S), and flexibility (D) in the gluteus maximus, rectus femoris, and biceps femoris were performed at three time points: before surgery, on postoperative days 8–10, and one month after hospital discharge. Pain (VAS), balance (Tinetti scale), and functional ability (WOMAC index) were also assessed. Results: Hip arthroplasty significantly reduced pain levels (VAS: 6.38 ± 0.28 preoperatively to 1.88 ± 0.22 postoperatively, p < 0.001) and improved functional ability (WOMAC: p < 0.001). Muscle tension and stiffness of the gluteus maximus initially increased after surgery (tension: 11.57 ± 0.32 to 12.15 ± 0.38, p = 0.009), reflecting compensatory stabilization but decreased by the final evaluation. Flexibility improved significantly over time (p = 0.014). The biceps femoris muscle exhibited a significant reduction in tension one month postoperatively (p = 0.015), alongside decreased stiffness (p = 0.015) and enhanced flexibility. The rectus femoris muscle showed minor changes in biomechanical properties, with no statistically significant differences detected. Conclusions: Osteoarthritis significantly impacts muscle function, reducing the gluteus muscle tension and stiffness, which compromises joint stability and triggers compensatory activity in the rectus femoris and biceps femoris muscles. Postoperative rehabilitation is essential for improving flexibility and addressing compensatory muscle tension. Full article

Background and Objectives: Measuring joint range of motion (ROM) is essential for diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal diseases. However, most clinical measurements are conducted using conventional devices, and their reliability may significantly depend on the tester. This study implemented an RGB-D (red/green/blue-depth) sensor-based artificial intelligence (AI) device to measure joint ROM and compared its reliability with that of a universal goniometer (UG). Materials and Methods: A single-center study was conducted from January 2022 to December 2022 on participants visiting the Chung-nam National University Hospital to compare the reliability of the RGB-D sensor-based AI device with that of the UG for measuring ROM. The ROM of the shoulder, hip, and lumbar spine joints was measured in 35 healthy participants in our hospital. The ROM was measured during active motion by the participants in the standing position. The ROM was measured twice consecutively using the RGB-D sensor-based AI device, and the mean values were obtained along with other values. A clinician also measured the ROM twice using a UG. Bland–Altman analysis was performed to evaluate the reliability of the measurements, which was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). An ICC value greater than 0.90 indicates excellent reliability. Results: Both methods achieved good-to-excellent intra-test reliability results (ICC > 0.75) for all the joints, with the reliability being slightly higher for the RGB-D sensor-based AI method than for the UG measurements. Moreover, for both methods, the inter-test reliability was higher than good (ICC > 0.75) for shoulder and lumbar joint ROM measurements but lower than good (ICC < 0.75) for hip ROM measurements. Conclusions: This study compared the efficacies of the RGB-D sensor-based AI method and UG in measuring ROM. In the future, this RGB-D sensor-based AI method should be technologically improved, and the measurement methods and protocols should be standardized. Full article