Erythrocyte Exchange Transfusion Enabling Simultaneous Bilateral Total Hip Arthroplasty by a direct anterior approach...

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a known risk factor for femoral head osteonecrosis, often leading to early joint degeneration. We report a 17-year-old male with homozygous SCD and bilateral femoral head collapse who underwent simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty through a direct anterior approach. Preoperative optimization included erythrocyte exchange transfusion effectively reducing hemoglobin S from 76% to 26%. The procedure was completed without complications, and the patient recovered uneventfully, with no sickling crises or acute chest syndrome. Cemented implants were used due to poor bone quality. The patient regained full, pain-free ambulation by three months. This case supports the safety and feasibility of simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty in selected SCD patients when preceded by targeted erythrocyte exchange transfusion and managed by a multidisciplinary team.