Single-stage, bilateral, cementless total hip arthroplasty

Single-stage, bilateral, cementless total hip arthroplasties were performed in 92 patients (184 arthroplasties) between March 1984 and December 1989. The clinical and radiographic findings were retrospectively evaluated, and the effects of weight bearing on the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the patients' prostheses were assessed. With a follow-up period ranging from 24 to 77 months (average, 44 months), the postoperative Harris hip scores averaged 94.6. Radiographic assessment at the most recent follow-up examination showed that 70% of the femoral components were optimally fixed, 26% were stable, and 4% had failed. Ninety-six percent of the acetabular components were optimally fixed. There were six acetabular component failures. These results indicate that single-stage, bilateral, cementless total hip arthroplasty can be performed without compromise to either hip if initial fit is achieved in both the metaphyseal and diaphyseal portions of the femur. Moreover, weight bearing did not adversely affect the initial stability and possible bone ingrowth, further implicating initial rigid fixation as paramount among the factors influencing the amount of ingrowth into the prosthesis.