Total hip arthroplasty in teenagers: an alternative to hip arthrodesis

Debilitating arthritis in teenage patients is a complex problem with limited surgical options. Hip arthrodesis is unpopular amongst patients, and contemporary total hip arthroplasty (THA) may be a promising alternative. We report on the outcomes of THA in patients less than 20 years of age. All consecutive teenage patients undergoing THA at a tertiary referral centre were reviewed. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years (range 0.6-6.8) and 9 patients had at least 5 years follow-up. There were 51 THAs in 43 patients with a mean age of 17 years (range 12-19). The commonest indication was osteonecrosis (35 cases), mostly secondary to slipped upper femoral epiphysis (15 cases). Forty-six were uncemented and 5 were reverse hybrid THAs of which 7 were computer assisted design/manufacture (CADCAM) components. The commonest bearing surface used was ceramic on ceramic (40 cases). The survival rate was 96% and there were 2 complications. At latest follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 90 (range 68-99) and UCLA activity score was 6 (range 4-9). Radiological analysis showed 2 patients with lucent lines around the acetabular component, but no signs of osteolysis or wear. We report good short to intermediate term survivorship and outcomes, and feel THA represents a valid alternative option to hip arthrodesis.