Study: Charnley THR has long-term durability in younger patients

Charnley cemented total hip replacements were found to be clinically and functionally durable in a younger patient population over a 35-year period, according to data presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedics Surgeons Annual Meeting.

“This study demonstrates the durability of cemented total hip replacements in a young patient population,” Lucian C. Warth, MD, wrote in the abstract.

Warth and colleagues evaluated 93 total hip arthroplasties (THA) in 69 patients who were younger than 50 years at time of the procedure over a minimum 35-year period. Radiographic and clinical follow-up, functional evaluation with activity scores, and activity measurements, and quality of life metrics were analyzed.

At final follow up or time of death, 63.5% percent of the original hip replacements were functioning. The remaining hardware (36.5%) had been revised or removed, including 21 (22.6%) acetabular and 7 (7.5%) femoral components revised for aseptic loosening. Mean 6-minute walk distance decreased from 395 m to 171 m, a trend linked with increasing comorbidity. WOMAC and Harris Hip ratings also significantly declined over time.

“Age and health related factors, as opposed to implant failure, serve to limit activity in this cohort at long-term follow-up,” the authors concluded.

Reference:

Warth L. Paper #733. Presented at: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting; March 11-15, 2014; New Orleans.

Disclosure: Warth has no relevant financial disclosures.