The Journal of arthroplasty
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Prior studies comparing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the elderly are limited by heterogeneity in arthritic disease patterns and patient selection. We report the results of UKA and TKA in patients 75 years and older with isolated medial compartmental arthritis, with special emphasis on immediate postoperative recovery, complications, reoperation rates, and implant survivorship at midterm follow-up. ⋯ Due to its less invasive nature, patients older than 75 undergoing UKA demonstrated faster initial recovery when compared to TKA, while maintaining comparable complications and midterm survivorship. UKA should be offered as an option in the elderly patient who fits the selection criteria for UKA.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of Outpatient vs Inpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty: An ACS-NSQIP Analysis.
There has been a recent surge of interest in performing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the outpatient setting to reduce cost and increase patient satisfaction. Detailed information on the safety of outpatient TKA in large sample sizes is scarce. ⋯ Based on the perioperative outcome measures studied here, outpatient TKA can be appropriately considered in select patients based on rates of overall perioperative adverse events and readmissions. However, higher surveillance of these patients postdischarge may be warranted.
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The relationship between intra-articular injections and complication rates after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. This study's purpose was to determine the relationship between the number and timing of intra-articular injections with complications and outcomes after TKA from a single surgeon's database. ⋯ Our data suggest that there is no relationship between timing and number of intra-articular injections with complication rate, infection, or poor short-term functional outcomes. Further larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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In recent years, bundled payment reimbursement models have been used to address the unsustainable rising cost of healthcare. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services initiatives, such as Bundled Payment for Care Improvement Program, have already demonstrated their ability to create financial and performance accountability in the public sector. ⋯ Bundled payment strategies provide incentives for physicians and healthcare professionals to eliminate unnecessary services and reduce costs. This article discusses our experience at a private institution with transitioning to a bundled payment program, while identifying the challenges and strategies associated with a successful implementation.
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Patellofemoral chondromalacia (PFCM) has historically been considered a contraindication for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), but there is limited data assessing PFCM's impact on the results of fixed-bearing UKA. Our objective was to assess the impact of medial patellar and/or medial trochlear PFCM on overall and patellofemoral-specific 2-year outcomes after fixed-bearing medial UKA. ⋯ Functional outcomes of fixed-bearing medial UKA are not adversely impacted by the presence of PFCM involving the medial patellar facet and/or medial or central trochlea. Further follow-up is needed to determine longer-term implications of fixed-bearing medial UKA in patients with PFCM.