A prospective randomized comparison of two surgical approaches to total hip arthroplasty

One hundred patients had total hip arthroplasty (THA) with either a modified Hardinge approach or transtrochanteric lateral approach. Perioperative data showed that osteotomies resulted in significantly more blood loss but required shorter operative time. Postoperative pain, using a visual analog scale, showed no statistical difference between the two groups. Postoperative hip scores for pain, function, and range of motion (ROM), presence of limp, and abductor muscle strength scores showed no significant difference between groups at six months and one year. Roentgenographic follow-up evaluation showed a mean acetabular cup angle of 40 degrees and a neutral-to-valgus femoral stem position in all patients. Trochanteric union was present in 92%. Heterotopic ossification occurred predominantly in the Hardinge patients but was not functionally significant. Therefore, the ability to achieve adequate pain relief and function with THA is not affected by the type of approach.