Methods

From December 2007 to July 2008, 45 hips (33 patients) underwent total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. There was 1 woman (2 hips) and 32 men (43 hips) who had a mean age of 39 years (range, 22 to 64 years). The minimum follow-up was 12 months (range, 12 to 19 months). The authors modified the original minimally invasive two-incision total hip arthroplasty technique and used large-diameter metal-on-metal articulations. In the lateral position, an anterolateral approach was used between the gluteus medius and tensor fascia lata muscles and for the posterior approach the muscle plane was between the piriformis and gluteus medius muscles. The acetabular components, Durom¯ (Zimmer) in 20 hips and Magnum¯ (Biomet) was used in 25 hips. M/L taper¯ (Zimmer) femoral stems were used in all cases. The size of the femoral heads were 38 mm (1 hip), 40 mm (3 hips), 42 mm (13 hips), 44 mm (18 hips), 46 mm (5 hips), 48 mm (4 hips) and 50 mm (1 hip). Postures such as excessive flexion or adduction which cause dislocation were not restricted, post-operatively. Functional results were measured by Harris hip scores (HHS), WOMAC scores, and range of motion. Radiographic evaluation was assessed for positions of components and post-operative complications were noted.