Recognising and dealing with complications in orthopaedic surgery

Abstract

Orthopaedic surgeons need information about the complications they are likely to encounter. The literature on complications is difficult to interpret owing to a lack of agreed definitions, problems with collecting accurate data and with data interpretation. We suggest a role for the Royal College of Surgeons and specialist societies in collecting and interpreting complications data. The aim of this narrative review was to provide an overview of the medical informatics of (orthopaedic) complications. Outcome measures were not part of this review. KEYWORDS Orthopaedic -Complications

12 by 12: Obtaining True OR Efficiency with Radical Time Transparency and Operational Excellence

“…The most productive surgeons are part of the team-they pick up the mop, assist with opening cases, and are generally an active participant in the process. Hitchin et al determined that turnover time improved significantly when the surgeon was present in the room (Ricketts et al 1994).…”

Updates in postoperative imaging modalities following musculoskeletal surgery

“…28 Ultrasound has limited utility in diagnosing deep tissue collection due to the shallow field of imaging afforded by the modality, however, it is a valuable diagnostic tool in evaluating superficial collection without being obscured by metal artifact. 1,28 In the event of equivocal findings from either modality described, more sophisticated techniques can be pursued to evaluate the underlying cause of component loosening.…”

“…Imaging is a vital part of the work-up and follow-up of patients following orthopaedic surgery to assess their progress and monitor any complications. 1,2 Management depends on early and accurate diagnosis, as delayed interventions, especially in complications, have been associated with poorer outcomes. Ideally, decisionmaking should be achieved without any invasive diagnostic method, if possible, but quickly and reliably.…”

Mortality among patients undergoing orthopedic surgeries and admitted to the ICU

“…10 Additionally, medical advances in this field and the increased capacity in hospitals for such surgeries to meet the relatively huge demands have led to major reductions in the rates of complications. 11,12 Although recent technologies in this field have led to huge reductions in the mortality rates among patients, many factors are to be considered when evaluating such rates. For instance, the elderly population and their relatively hazardous comorbidities may increase the risk of developing perioperative complications.…”