The Reconstruction Accuracy of the Hip Center of Rotation After Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty for Failed Treatment of Acetabular Fractures. Does It Matter?
Abstract Background To assess the impaction of reconstruction accuracy of hip center of rotation (COR) on midterm clinical and radiographic results of cementless reconstruction of total hip arthroplasties (THAs) for patients after failed treatment of acetabular fractures. Methods One hundred and four patients (107 hips) who underwent THAs after failed treatment of acetabular fractures were retrospectively evaluated and cementless cups and stems were implanted in all hips. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Harris hip score (HHS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scoring system. Radiographic results were analyzed by serial perioperative x-rays. Results At the latest follow-up examination, the median HHS increased from 52 (42-65) before surgery to 93 (90-97) (p < 0.001) and the median WOMAC decreased from 52 (36-65) before surgery to 5.8 (1.5-8) (p < 0.001). Compared with normal contralateral hip, 79 cups migrated superiorly (0.2-33.6mm) and 22 cups migrated inferiorly (0.2-16.1mm). The distance of superior migration of reconstructed COR was correlated with positive Trendelenburg sign at the latest follow-up examination (r=0.504; p < 0.001). The percentage of postoperative Trendelenburg sign was significantly higher in superior migration subgroup than that in subgroup with anatomical restoration of COR (P=0.015). Conclusions Cementless THAs in patients after failed treatment for acetabular fractures achieved predictable clinical and radiographic outcomes. A superiorly migrated hip COR appeared to exert a negative effect on abductor muscle function.