Evaluating learning and change in orthopaedics: What is the evidence-base?

Figure 1 Learning curve for navigated total hip replacements. Segmented linear regression technique was employed to model learning[17]. Line-plateau model fits the data best, with a plateau being attained at 12 operations.

Figure 2 Learning curve for navigated total knee replacements. Segmented linear regression technique was employed to model learning[17]. Line-plateau model fits the data best, with plateau being attained at 26 operations.

Figure 3 Time to surgery for neck of femur fractures. The vertical dashed line marks the onset of a dedicated hip fracture unit. The line-plateau is the best-fitting linear model for the entire period: the line has equation y = −0.0414t + 40.1868; plateau at y = 24.7033 reached after 375 d. The initial drop may be related to the introduction of the Best Practice Tariff. The hip fracture unit did not significantly affect time to surgery[53].