Complications in surface replacement arthroplasty of the hip: experience with the Paltrinieri-Trentani prosthesis

A method of surface replacement arthroplasty of the hip joint is described for use in selected patients, often in the younger age group. One hundred and forty patients were reviewed after a mean interval of four years. Seventy-two per cent were graded 5 or 6 on the Charnley scale, the remainder had symptoms due to femoral neck fracture or loosening of the prosthetic components. In the main the bad results were attributed to incorrect patient selection or technical imperfections with the operative technique. The advantages of the operation are no alteration in the relationship of the femoral head, neck and acetabulum and minimal interference with the surrounding muscle and soft tissues. The amount of implanted material is reduced and no entry is made into the femoral medullary canal, which facilitates any further revision surgery that may be necessary.