Total hip replacement in the neuromuscularly impaired

Controversy exists over the appropriate use of total hip arthroplasty in patients with significant neuromuscular disease. This study investigated the use of THR in neuromuscular disease patients. A criterion for patient inclusion was a diagnosis of mental retardation, cerebral palsy or Down's syndrome. The study population consisted of nine patients (12 hips), average age, 42 years. Average follow-up was 3.5 years.

(1) 100% of patients demonstrated decreased pain, expanded range of motion and improved overall function. (2) All institutionalized patients were cared for more easily. (3) There were no infections, dislocations or major complications.

Total hip arthroplasty is a reasonable and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of painful osteoarthritis of the hip in select patients with neuromuscular disease.