Primary total hip arthroplasty in systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting primarily young women. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head produces significant morbidity in these patients. The clinical and radiographic results of 33 total hip arthroplasties (THA) in 25 patients were studied. The Hospital for Special Surgery hip rating was good or excellent in all surviving index primary hip arthroplasties at a median follow-up of 47 months. Overall survival probability was 94.6% at 5 years and 81.8% at 9 years using survivorship analysis. Perioperative morbidity was minimal. Total hip arthroplasty using contemporary techniques and current management protocols can provide reliable functional improvement in patients with osteonecrosis secondary to SLE.