Abstract
Restoration of an anatomical hip centre frequently requires limb lengthening, which increases the risk of nerve injury in the treatment of Crowe 4 DDH. The objective was to perform a prospective evaluation of SDTSO with Cemented Exeter Femoral Component.
15 female patients (18 hips – 3 bilateral) with a mean age at time of operation of 51 years were followed-up for a mean of 77 months (11 to 133). 16 cemented and 2 uncemented acetabular components were implanted. Exeter cemented DDH stems were used in all cases. No patient was lost to follow-up.
Charnley-d'Aubigné-Postel scores for pain, function and range of movement were improved from a mean of 2, 2, 3 to 5, 4, 5 respectively. One osteotomy failed to unite at 14 months and was revised successfully. Clinical healing was achieved at a mean of 6 months and radiological at a mean of 9 months. The mean length of the excised segment was 3cm and the mean true limb lengthening was 2cm. A 3.5mm DCP plate with unicortical screws was used to reduce the osteotomy, and intramedullary autografting was performed in all cases. Mean subsidence was 1mm and no stem was found loose at the latest follow-up. No sciatic nerve palsy was observed and no dislocation.
Cemented Exeter femoral components perform well in the treatment of Crowe IV DDH with SDTSO. Transverse osteotomy is necessary to achieve derotation and reduction can be maintained with a DCP plate. Intramedullary autografting prevents cement interposition at the osteotomy site.
