Objective: Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is one of the most frequently reported complications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and often requires total hip arthroplasty (THA). Our objective was to analyze the perioperative management, technical problems, clinical outcomes, and complications associated with THA in patients with SLE.
Methods: A total of 28 total hip arthroplasties performed for 24 patients with SLE, including 19 women and 5 men with a mean age of 38.8 years performed from 1998 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. SLE disease activity index and ASA class were evaluated preoperatively. WOMAC, HHS, and SF-36 scores were also evaluated in all cases pre- and post-operatively for functional recovery of the hip and health-related quality of life (HRQOL).
Results: The average SLE disease activity index was 3.5 points. Three patients were in ASA class I, 12 class II, and 9 were class III (37.5%). The average duration of follow-up was 67.5 months. None of the patients required a revision, and 3 patients died during the follow-up period. A statistically significant improvement in all scores was found comparing pre- and post-operative conditions (P < 0.001). The complication rate was 11.1% with 2 wound infections and 1 urinary tract infection.
Conclusion: THA is an acceptable method for achieving functional recovery and increasing HRQOL in patients with SLE and ANFH who receive proper perioperative management.