Outcome of hip resurfacing in obese patients

The effect of obesity on outcome for patients undergoing hip resurfacing has been evaluated. Pre and post-operative objective patient scored outcomes for a group of 181 cases of hip resurfacing performed over a three year period were collected. Cases have been stratified by body mass index (BMI) with evaluation of post-operative complications. Patient outcomes included: SF-36, WOMAC, and satisfaction scores, and were compared pre-operatively, and at one year. We found an increased rate of wound complications in the obese group (BMI > 30) with 4 cases of prolonged wound drainage and 2 superficial infections, compared to none in the non-obese group. A similar improvement in SF-36, WOMAC and patient satisfaction was found for both groups. No increase in the risk of femoral neck fracture or aseptic loosening was seen in the obese group. These results suggest excellent early outcomes for obese patients undergoing hip resurfacing with no added risk of early failure.