[Potential use of open-source intelligence (OSINT) in the public health-epidemiology sector of medicine].

Abstract

Introduction: Degenerative joint diseases are considered widespread public health issues worldwide. Due to the aging population and lifestyle changes in the modern world, hip osteoarthritis affects an increasing number of people, leading to a growing demand for endoprosthetic implantation. Objective: Analyzing demographic aspects and surgical technique trends is crucial for achieving successful endoprosthetic outcomes. This study aims to draw valuable conclusions about changes in everyday clinical practice by analyzing 26 years of elective hip arthroplasty data from the Orthopedic Clinic of the University of Pécs. Method: Surgical records from the Orthopedic Clinic of the University of Pécs from 1998 to 2023 were available for analysis. Data from 8,746 surgeries performed over these 26 years were processed. Linear correlation analysis and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used for statistical evaluation. Results: Patient age increased significantly over the study period (p = 0.001), with women older than men in primary surgeries (p = 0.001), but no age difference in revisions (p = 0.150). Gender distribution remained stable, with more women operated (p = 0.001). Surgery numbers fluctuated, showing a significant decline (p = 0.014), followed by an increase after waiting list reduction programs. Revision rates remained stable (p = 0.071). Primary coxarthrosis was the main primary indication (86%), and aseptic loosening dominated revisions (83%). Insert wear appeared as a revision cause, accounting for 35.5% in the last 5 years. Complete revisions decreased from 34.4% to 10%. Discussion: Compared to other countries, surgery numbers rose globally but fluctuated here. Patient age increased locally, unlike the international decline. Gender differences and indications were similar worldwide. COVID–19 pandemic a sharper surgery drop at our clinic than elsewhere. Conclusion: The University of Pécs exhibits hip arthroplasty trends partially consistent with international findings, though several differences exist, likely influenced by national healthcare policies. Detailed analysis of Hungary’s National Prosthesis Registry is recommended to improve understanding of domestic trends and enhance international comparisons. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(32): 1256–1264.