Arthrodesis for tuberculous coxarthritis: good outcome in 32 adolescents.

Background: There is no consensus on best treatment of advanced tuberculous coxarthritis in young patients.

Patients and methods: We report our results concerning hip arthrodesis for advanced tuberculous arthritis of the hip in 32 adolescents. The operation was preceded by standard antituberculous chemotherapy for 4 weeks, which was continued for 12 months after surgery. At the last follow-up, clinical and radiographic examinations of the ipsilateral knee, contralateral hip and lower back were done. We evaluated function, limitations, and presence of pain with our usual questions.

Results: Their average age at the time of operation was 16 (12-18) years and the average duration of followup 12 (10-18) years. Solid bony fusion occurred in all patients after mean 5 months and no complications developed in the postoperative period. 28 patients were satisfied with the fused hip. No patients had reactivation of tuberculosis in any part of their body. The results were comparable to those of arthrodesis performed for other causes.

Interpretation: Hip arthrodesis is an alternative method of treatment for advanced stages of tuberculous coxarthritis in the adolescent.