The optimization of the length of the lower limbs after hip arthroplasty

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of hip joint arthroplasty in patients with different correction of the length of the legs and identifying factors that influence the outcome.

We analyzed 93 patients operated upon with an initial shortening of the limb length by more than 3 cm. The difference in the length of the limbs ranged from 3 to 12 cm, which averaged 5 cm. Immediately after surgery and after three to 12 months, a control examination was performed with measurement of the length of the lower extremities and the function of the joint, using the Harris scale.

The study revealed three versions of the result of the correction of the length of the limb after hip joint arthroplasty: saving limb shortening (n = 16 (17%) with HHS 80 (95% CI, 78.4 to 83.4%); full restoration of limb length (n = 70 (75,5%) with HHS 78 (95% CI, 74.6 to 80.2%); excess limb lengthening (n = 7 (7.5%) with HHS 68 (95% CI, 63.5 to 73.5%).

So that, incorrect lengthening of the lower limb during arthroplasty leads to lameness, discomfort, muscle tension, which ultimately leads to pain. Optimal result of hip arthroplasty and ensure the necessary amplitude of movements, it is advisable to use prediction criteria of the leveling of the limb length, which are: the duration of the disease, presence of consequences of previous operations, gender, age, degree of tissue rigidity, severity of hip-spine syndrome, and scoliotic deformity.