Stem cells and discogenic back pain.

Background: Chronic low back pain, common from the sixth decade, negatively impacts the quality of life of patients and health care systems. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been introduced in the management of degenerative discogenic pain. The present study summarizes the current knowledge on the effectiveness of MSCs in patients with discogenic back pain.

Capsular repair vs capsulectomy in total hip arthroplasty.

Background: A major complication of total hip arthroplasty is dislocation. The hip joint capsule can be incised and repaired, or can be excised.

Sources Of Data: We performed a systematic review of the literature following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines focusing on capsular repair and capsulectomy.

Haemoglobin and transfusions in elderly patients with hip fractures: the effect of a dedicated orthogeriatrician.

Background: Hip fractures are common in elderly patients, in whom it is important to monitor blood loss; however, unnecessary transfusions should be avoided. The primary objective of this study was to assess whether the employment of a dedicated orthogeriatrician in an Orthopaedic Department allows to optimise the clinical conditions of patients, influencing blood loss and consequently the number of transfusions. The secondary objective was to determine whether the influence of the orthogeriatrician differs according to the type of surgical treatment.

Osteotomies for avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

Background: In osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), blood supply is insufficient for the metabolic requirements of the bone. The initial management is conservative, and, in case of failure, surgery is indicated. Osteotomies aim to change the spatial position of the necrotic portion of the femoral head.