[4-7 year results of total hip arthroplasty with special reference to late complications]

The 4-7 year results of total hip arthroplasty (95 hips, McKee-Müller and Charnley-Müller) are presented in detail both from a clinical and radiological point of view. About 83% of the hips showed a good and excellent clinical condition at the time of reevaluation. Deep infection was observed in 4.2% of the hips, 11.2% of the hips had already been reoperated at the time of reevaluation because of aseptic loosening of one or both components. Another 3.5% of the hips showed clinical and radiological evidence of aseptic loosening, some more 4.9% of the hips had radiological evidence of loosening without clinical signs at the time of reevaluation. Furthermore, 6.8% of the hips had radiological evidence of third degree periarticular calcification influencing the clinical state of the hip in a negative manner. Over all serious complications which gave or will give rise to reoperation were 30.6%. The causes for serious complications are discussed extensively. It is proposed to restrict indication for total hip arthroplasty and to reemphasize hip-conserving procedures more seriously.