Advertisement for orthosearch.org.uk
Orthopaedic Proceedings Logo

Receive monthly Table of Contents alerts from Orthopaedic Proceedings

Comprehensive article alerts can be set up and managed through your account settings

View my account settings

Visit Orthopaedic Proceedings at:

Loading...

Loading...

Full Access

TROCHANTERIC NON-UNION – DOES IT INFLUENCE THE RATE OF REVISION FOLLOWING PRIMARY TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT? A MINIMUM OF 15 YEARS FOLLOW-UP



Abstract

Introduction: Trans-trochanteric approach to the hip joint has become less popular in recent years mainly due to problems associated with trochanteric non-union. Although reported incidence of dislocation is low when the trochanter unites following the trans-trochanteric approach, the radiographic appearance of an ununited high flying trochanter with broken wires is distressing for patient and surgeon.

Aim & objective: The aim of our study was to determine if trochanteric non-union was associated with a higher incidence of revision for mechanical failure.

Method: The case notes and radiographs of 371 patients operated between 1979 and 1989 by two senior surgeons were reviewed. The mean follow-up was 16.7 years (Range 15–25 years).

Results: 19.6% (66/336) patients with the trochanter united and 20% (7/35) with trochanteric non-union had been revised at the latest follow up. The difference was not found to be statistically significant (p value > 0.1, Odds Ratio 1.02).

Conclusion: This study showed that trochanteric non-union following primary total hip replacement did not increase the incidence of revision surgery over a period of 25 years.

Editoral Secretary Mr Peter Howard. Correspondence should be addressed to BHS at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35 - 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PN.