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Total hip arthroplasty in the underweight
Daniel T Alfonso1, R Damani Howell, Glinys Caceres
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Musculoskeletal Research Center, NYU-Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, New York, USA.
The Journal of Arthroplasty
|June 7, 2008
Summary
Total hip arthroplasty effectively improves function for underweight patients with arthritis. However, these patients face higher risks of dislocation and requiring blood transfusions post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Arthroplasty Surgery
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Underweight patients (BMI < 18.5) with arthritis present unique challenges for surgical interventions.
- Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a common procedure for hip arthritis, but outcomes in underweight populations require specific consideration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes and complication rates of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in underweight patients.
- To assess the long-term functional improvements and risks associated with THA in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 20 underweight patients (BMI < 18.5) who underwent THA at a single institution.
- Analysis of surgical and medical complications within 30 days post-surgery.
- Assessment of functional outcomes using Harris hip scores at long-term follow-up (average 6.1 years).
Main Results:
- Surgical complications included prolonged drainage (1) and posterior dislocations (3).
- Medical complications occurred in two patients, including one death.
- Sixty-five percent of patients required at least one blood transfusion.
- Harris hip scores significantly improved from 35 to 81 (P < .05).
Conclusions:
- Total hip arthroplasty demonstrates effectiveness in improving function for underweight patients with hip arthritis.
- Underweight patients undergoing THA exhibit an increased risk of dislocation and need for blood transfusions.
- Careful patient selection and perioperative management are crucial for optimizing THA outcomes in underweight individuals.
