Cementless total hip arthroplasty In patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head

ABSTRACT

With the use of cementless hydroxyapatite coated prostheses. 21 total hip arthroplasties were performed in 19 patients who had a pre-operative diagnosis of late stage [Ficat and Arlet stage III or IV] avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The average age of the patients at time of operation was 51 years. The patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically for a minimum period of 2-years. The clinical evaluation was done using the Harris hip score. The radiographic evaluation was done by standard antero-posterior and lateral radiographs that were compared with the immediate post-operative film. The radiological signs that were recorded included the fit of the stem of the femoral component, the appearance of radiolucent lines around the stem and the acetabulum, migration of the acetabulum or subsidence of the stem and any wear of the polyethylene liner. The findings of the study showed that cementless prosthesis could be used in patients with osteonecrosis with encouraging results: