We propose that Total Hip Replacement with correction of fixed flexion deformity of the hip and exaggerated lumbar lordosis will result in relief of symptoms from spinal stenosis, possibly avoiding a spinal surgery. A sequence of patients with this dual pathology has been assessed to examine this and suggest a possible management algorithm. A retrospective study of 19 patients who presented with dual pathology was performed and the patients were assessed with regards to pre and post-operative symptoms, walking distance, and neurological status.Introduction
Materials and methods
Elective Orthopaedics has been targeted by the UK Department of Health as a maximum six-month waiting time for operations could not be met. The National Orthopaedic Project was initiated as a consequence and Independent Sector Treatment Centres (ISTCs) and well established private hospitals were utilised to treat NHS long wait patients. We audited the primary total hip replacements performed in our hospital in 1998 and 2003 to compare the differences in the patient characteristics in particular age, length of stay and ASA grade.Introduction
Materials and methods
Fracture neck of femur with delayed presentation in young patients can be a surgical challenge. Such scenarios are rare in the developed world but not uncommon in developing countries. To present the medium term results of open reduction and internal fixation accompanied by Quadratus Femoris muscle pedicle grafting in young patients who presented with a delay after sustaining a fracture neck of femur, 42 patients with fracture neck of femur with delayed presentation were treated with open reduction and internal fixation and supplemented with Quadratus Femoris muscle pedicle graft. A posterior approach was used in all cases. The patients were advised not to bear weight until there was clinical and radiological union. Functional recovery was assessed by gait and ability to squat on the floor. The age of the patients, predominantly male, ranged from 24 yrs to 50 yrs. Radiological union occurred on average at 6 months. Thirty-six patients proceeded to union; six patients had non-union and needed revision surgery. Complications included varus union in 9 cases; shortening greater than 2 cms occurred in 6 cases. Quadratus Femoris muscle pedicle grafting described by Meyer in the 1970s is useful in treating fracture neck of femur. Open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture neck of femur when supplemented with Quadratus Femoris muscle pedicle graft fixation promoted the union of fracture and preserved the head the femur.