Osteoarthritis and cartilage
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Osteoarthr. Cartil. · Feb 2013
Comparative StudyTrends and geographical variation of primary hip and knee joint replacement in Germany.
Considerable variation in total hip replacement and total knee replacement (THR/TKR) between regions has been described. The aim of this study was to explore geographical variation in THR and TKR in Germany and to analyse potentially explanatory variables. ⋯ This study proofed considerable and consistent geographic variation of THR and TKR in Germany. Thereby relevant explanatory factors were identified. These results may foster the discussion and future research in health services which should include areas of patients' and doctors' expectation, financial aspects and an outcome-based definition of appropriate supply.