[Elective total hip replacement in patients aged 80 years and older]

Osteoarthritis of the hip is frequent in older individuals and almost one out of five patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty at the Orthopaedic surgery service of the HUG is 80 years or older. A review of the literature indicates that the intervention provides excellent pain relief, improved functional outcome and high satisfaction in patients over 80 years. However, postoperative confusion and minor urological problems are more frequent. Moreover, the risk of myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism and the 90-day-mortality rate are higher in these patients than in patients aged 60-79 years. The incidence of orthopaedic complications seems similar to the incidence in younger patients. Finally, revision due to aseptic loosening, the most important problem in young and active individuals, is uncommon in patients over 80 years.