HIP ARTHRODESIS: A MINIMUM 20 YEAR FOLLOW-UP RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the long-term results of seventy patients who underwent hip arthrodesis using the original technique described by Davis. Methods: We carried out a retrospective study involving seventy patients submitted to hip arthrodesis between 1982 and 1995. The presence of symptoms involving the lumbar spine, ipsilateral knee, and contralateral hip was noted, as well as the success of the arthrodesis fusion, its positioning, and the need for conversion surgery to total hip replacement. Results: The mean follow-up time was 21.6 years. A satisfactory hip fusion was found in 48 patients (85.7%). Lumbar spine pain was reported by 11 patients (19.6%) and ipsilateral knee osteoarthritis was found in four patients (7.1%). Discussion: Two works, with a longer follow-up time (35 and 38 years) present more prevalent symptoms involving the lumbar spine (57% and 62%) and ipsilateral knee joint (45% and 57%), and higher conversion surgery rates (17% e 28%). Conclusion: Hip arthrodesis by the Davis technique presents satisfactory results until the 20(th)year after surgery, however lumbar spine disease seems to become more prevalent over the years, and the pain in the homolateral knee suggests an association with the initial position in abduction of the hip submitted to arthrodesis. Level of Evidence: Level Ill clinical study.