Total hip replacement in a patient on hemodialysis

A 52-year-old woman, on intermittent hemodialysis because of chronic renal failure, underwent total hip replacement for severe osteoarthritic changes. The operation was performed under epidural anesthesia, the postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was completely relieved of pain and limitation of movement. Although total hip replacement is a major surgical procedure, it is suggested that the operation can, when considered necessary, by successfully carried out in a patient on hemodialysis, provided that careful attention is paid to the pre- and postoperative care.