Complications following osteotomy of the greater trochanter in total hip replacement arthroplasty using the lateral

Insights

Trochanteric fragment migration occurred in 4.9% of Charnley hip replacements. Predisposing factors included wire breakage, fractures, and high weight, with men more affected. Early mobilization did not increase migration risk.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Biomedical Engineering

Background:

  • Hip replacement arthroplasties aim to restore function and reduce pain.
  • Trochanteric fragment migration is a potential complication following certain hip replacement techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the incidence and predisposing factors of trochanteric fragment migration after Charnley hip replacement.
  • To assess the clinical significance and union rates of trochanteric fragments post-surgery.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 365 consecutive Charnley hip replacement arthroplasties in 309 patients.
  • Identification of migration incidence and correlation with predisposing factors like wire breakage, fractures, weight, and patient sex.
  • Evaluation of clinical symptoms and radiographic union rates at 2 and 5 years post-operation.

Main Results:

  • Trochanteric fragment migration was observed in 4.9% of cases.
  • Predisposing factors included wire breakage, trochanteric fractures, and excessive weight; males were more susceptible.
  • Early mobilization with weight-bearing did not elevate migration risk.
  • Migration rarely caused significant symptoms.
  • Trochanteric union was achieved in 98% of cases by 2 years, with no non-union detected after 5 years.

Conclusions:

  • Trochanteric fragment migration is an infrequent complication of Charnley hip arthroplasty.
  • Specific patient factors and surgical complications contribute to migration risk.
  • The complication generally has a benign clinical course, and trochanteric union is highly successful.