Abstract
Introduction
There is growing evidence that patients with lumbar spine fusion are at greater risk for postoperative dislocation following total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to review one author's experience with the modified direct lateral approach in patients with prior or subsequent lumbar spine fusion and total hip arthroplasty.
Methods
Our IRB approved clinical database was queried for all primary total hip arthroplasties performed by the senior author from 1/1/2004 to 12/31/2016. All were performed via a modified direct lateral approach. Of these 1902 hips (1656 patients), 59 were identified in our medical records as patients who had a prior spine fusion or a spine fusion following THA. The extent of fusion was identified and reported. Radiographs were reviewed for acetabular position (abduction and anteversion) and leg length discrepancies. Records were reviewed and patients were contacted to determine if there were dislocations.
Results
Of the 59 patients with concomitant spine fusion and total hip arthroplasty, 47 had the fusion prior to THA and 12 following THA. All patients were seen in the office or contacted by phone for a mean follow up of 5.8 years (2 to 15 years)(3 deceased, 3 lost). The direct lateral approach was used in all cases and in no cases was a dual mobility, lipped liner, or constrained component used. Head size ranged from 32 to 40. There were no postoperative dislocations in any of these patients. Acetabular position was a mean 43.6 degrees abduction (range 30–50), and a mean anteversion of 23.7 degrees (range 17 – 34). Average postoperative LLD was 2.8mm long on operated side (range −2mm to + 12mm). Spine fusion extent was a mean 2.1 levels (range 1 – 9) with 15 that included the sacrum/pelvis.
Discussion
As surgeons have become aware of the elevated risk of hip dislocation associated with spine fusion/stiffness, several approaches have been proposed to address this risk. Our findings suggest that using the modified direct lateral approach for primary total hip arthroplasty significantly reduces the risk of such a complication.
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