[Indications for arthrodesis of the hip in the adult]

The indications for and results of operations for arthrodesis of the hip undertaken between 1975 and 1980 have been compared with a similar series published from the same department in 1964. The development and reliability of total replacement of the hip has reduced the need for arthrodesis of the joint, with its attendant problems of long term overload of the back and knee. However arthrodesis is still a valuable salvage procedure after immobilisation of the muscles which move the joint, often as a result of multiple operations, or in the presence of troublesome infection.