Leg length discrepancy, dislocation rate, and offset in total hip replacement using a short modular stem: navigation...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Total hip replacement (THR) is a common procedure to address hip joint issues.
• Short modular femoral stems offer a more conservative implant option.
• Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) is increasingly utilized in orthopedic procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare computer-assisted techniques with freehand methods for short modular femoral stem implantation in THR.
• To evaluate the impact of CAS on surgical outcomes, including limb length and offset restoration.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of navigated short modular stems in less invasive THR.

Main Methods:

• A match-paired study design was employed.
• 44 patients with ideal indications for short modular femoral stems were included.
• Data collected included surgical time, clinical outcomes, dislocation rate, limb length, and offset.

Main Results:

• Computer-assisted techniques resulted in a longer surgical time compared to freehand.
• Early clinical outcomes were similar between both techniques.
• CAS facilitated easier management of limb length discrepancy and offset restoration.

Conclusions:

• Navigated short modular femoral stems are safe for less invasive total hip replacement.
• Computer-assisted techniques provide advantages in achieving accurate limb length and offset restoration.
• CAS may enhance the precision of short modular stem implantation in THR.