Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is not commonly performed in young patients. However, markedly advanced hip disease can cause disabling end-stage arthritis, and THA may be the only available option for pain relief and restoration of function. We report our experience with modern alternative bearing THA in patients younger than 21 years.
METHODS
Twenty-one consecutive primary THAs were performed in 18 patients. Pre- and post-operative Harris Hip Scores (HHS) and any postoperative complications were recorded. Radiographs were reviewed for evidence of premature component loosening. Mean patient age at operation was 18 years (range, 13-20). There were 14 females (78%) and 4 males (22%). Nine patients (50%) were Caucasian, 8 (44%) were African-American, and 1 (6%) was Asian. Average follow-up was 45 months (range, 16-85). All patients failed conservative treatment; 15 patients had prior core decompression and bone grafting. Underlying etiology was chemotherapy induced osteonecrosis (7, 33%), steroid induced osteonecrosis (6, 29%), sickle cell disease (5, 24%), and chronic dislocation (3, 14%); 1 patient underwent THA for fracture of a previous ceramic bearing, 1 patient had a slipped capital femoral epiphysis, and 1 patient had idiopathic joint destruction. Components implanted were ceramic/ceramic (14, 67%), metal/highly cross-linked polyethylene (6, 29%), and metal/metal surface replacement (1, 5%).
RESULTS
HHS scores improved from 43.6 pre-operatively to 83.6 post-operatively (p<0.001). There were no infections or dislocations, and one patient with acute lymphocytic leukemia experienced post-operative hypotension following bilateral THA which resolved. At time of final follow-up, there was no radiographic evidence of component loosening; one THA was revised for a cracked ceramic liner.
CONCLUSION
At intermediate-term follow-up, clinical and radiographic results are favorable following alternative bearing THA in patients under age 21. Long-term follow-up is necessary to assess implant longevity in this patient population.
