We evaluate the results of total hip arthroplasty using either a porous-coated or a hydroxyapatite (HA) coated femoral component.

For a prospective trial we selected a cohort of young patients with a mean age of 39 (19 to 56). They were randomly selected to have either a one-third porous-coated or one-third HA-coated uncemented femoral component. One of two experienced hip surgeons performed the operations. Within the constraints of pathology, the approach and surgical technique was the same in all the cases. Patients were followed-up clinically and radiologically for a mean period of 102 months (87 to 113).

To date there have been no revisions. All components have remained well fixed and there is no evidence of progressive subsidence.

We found no significant difference between porous-coated or HA-coated stems.