Author:

Abstract:

We report the follow-up of a cohort of 86 patients who underwent total hip replacement (THR) with custom-made stem prosthesis. Fixation mode, cemented (group 1) or uncemented (group 2) is based on the bone quality. Aspects of physical health and changes in mental health are documented using 3 patient-administered questionnaires, pre-operatively and 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Harris Hip Score (HHS), Hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) and SF-36, multi-purpose, short-form health survey were used. Globally HHS increases significantly (p<0.01). In group 1 up to 3 months post-operatively and in group 2 up to 1 year. (p <0.05). In group 2 HHS is significantly higher 6 months and 1 year postoperatively (p<0.05). No significant differences in HOOS subscores between subjects of group 1 and 2 for subsequent time points were found. The scores related to Pain and Symptoms increased significantly 6 weeks after THR (p<0.01). Sports and recreation scores increased significantly up to 3 months after THR (p<0.01). Activities of daily living, and Quality of Life (QoL) improved up to 6 months after surgery (p<0.01). No significant difference between the 2 groups in QoL was observed. The physical component summary increased up to 3 months after surgery (p<0.01). The mental component summary did not change significantly after THR. The difference noted in HHS between group 1 and 2 may be due to the selection of the fixation technique which is often directly related to the patient’s age. The results of the HOOS score confirm the findings of the HHS. Not all patients responded to the questions relative to recreation and sport of the HOOS score. QoL is an important indicator for success as perceived by the patient. In this study a rapid improvement of QoL is observed (3 months) and there is little change at 6 and 12 months.