Girdlestone's modified resection arthroplasty

Thirty-three patients were operated for septic (n = 20) and aseptic (n = 13) loosening of their hip prostheses using Girdlestone's operation over 10 years. An average of 46.6 months later, 22 of these patients were given a follow-up examination. Clinical evaluation according to Harris showed an improvement in mean values from 25 to 53 points, which can be attributed mainly to a marked reduction in pain, as function remained poor and the patients still depended on walking aids. The infection ceased in 92% of the patients with septic prosthesis loosening.