Anterior-approach total hip arthroplasty in patients with poliomyelitis: Long-term outcomes

Abstract

Objective

In patients with residual poliomyelitis-related impairments, total hip arthroplasty (THA) is challenging due to the high frequency of risk factors such as hip dysplasia, dislocation, muscle weakness, and fracture. The objective of this study was to assess the long-term functional and radiographic outcomes of anterior-approach THA with a ceramic-ceramic, dual-mobility, or constrained implant in patients with poliomyelitis sequelae.

Hypothesis

THA via the anterior approach with a ceramic-ceramic, dual-mobility, or constrained implant is a reliable technique that is not associated with excess risks of instability or aseptic loosening.

Material and methods

This single-centre retrospective study included consecutive patients with poliomyelitis sequelae who underwent THA between January 1998 and September 2019 via the anterior approach, with implantation of a ceramic-ceramic, dual-mobility, or constrained implant. The Harris Hip Score (HHS), implant position, and complications (e.g., infection and loosening) were collected during the most recent in-person visit.

Results

The study included 19 patients (23 hips). Mean follow-up was 5.2 ± 4.2 years (range, 2.0–10.6 years). Only six of the 23 procedures were done on the side with greater muscle weakness. The mean HHS at last follow-up was 80.4 ± 10.4. A single procedure (1/23, 4%) was followed by a complication, consisting in intra-prosthetic dislocation 2 years after implantation of a dual-mobility cup. At last follow-up, the HHS was not associated with psoas and gluteus muscle strength (r_s = 0.35, p = 0.11 and r_s = 0.37, p = 0.09, respectively) and was not significantly different between the weaker vs. stronger side (82.7 ± 8.0 vs. 79.5 ± 11.3, respectively; p = 0.53). Cup position was more horizontal, thereby optimising function, when the procedure was done on the weaker vs. the stronger side (39.9° ± 4.3 vs. 45.0° ± 6.8, respectively; p = 0.02).

Conclusion

THA is a good option for improving function in patients with poliomyelitis sequelae. THA via the anterior approach with a ceramic-ceramic, dual-mobility, or constrained implant is a reliable method that is not associated with an excess risk of instability or loosening.

Level of evidence

IV.