Maximizing cost-effectiveness while minimizing complications in total hip replacement

Between July 1989 and June 1994, a consecutive series of 651 cemented total hip arthroplasties were performed in 577 patients using relatively inexpensive implants and standardized surgical and postoperative protocols. We set out to determine what effect these cost-saving measures have on the overall success and complication rate after total hip replacement surgery. Surgical results remained excellent, and perioperative, early, and late complications, including infection, loosening, and revision hip surgery, remained minimal, indeed, below usual complication rates. We concluded that cost-effective measures can be implemented while maintaining the overall excellent results of hip replacement surgery without the risk of increasing complication rates.