Abstract
This paper looks at technical details and other issues in 30 primary total hip arthroplasty procedures performed through a direct lateral exposure in which the skin incision was limited according to the preoperatively templated acetabular component external diameter (D), using a formula D/2 + 1cm. All patients were positioned in the lateral decubitis position and stabilised with a vacuum beanbag.
Unpaired t-tests were used to determine difference in outcome between these patients and those operated on conventionally. No differences were noted between the two groups with regard to preoperative diagnosis, Oxford Hip Score, Harris Hip Score, demographic details, and body mass index. No statistically significant differences were noted with regard to operation time, blood loss, postoperative narcotic requirements, time to mobilise, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications and six-week postoperative Harris Hip and Oxford Hip functional outcome scores.
The mini-incision technique does not appear to carry short-term advantages for the patients. We did not encounter technical problems, but the mini-exposure does create technical challenges that could potentially have an adverse effect on the ultimate outcome. We do not advocate its use.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor M. B. E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to him at PO Box 47363, Parklands, Johannesburg 2121, South Africa.
