Background: The number of hemodialysis patients has progressively increased in Japan. Among the orthopedic complications in this population, chronic hip arthropathy associated with long-term hemodialysis is one of the most devastating problems. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is often indicated. However, varying results have been reported for THA in these patients. This study was undertaken to assess the risk-benefit ratio of THA performed in patients with dialysis hip arthropathy.
Methods: We evaluated 17 patients (19 hips) with dialysis hip arthropathy who underwent THA. The duration of hemodialysis before surgery ranged from 10 to 27 years. Histological examination of the tissue samples revealed accumulation of amyloid deposits in all cases. Three patients died within 2 years after operation; the remaining 14 patients (16 hips) were followed for a minimum of 3 years.
Results: The cumulative survival rate of the prostheses in these 16 hips up to the latest follow-up was 94%. Regarding surgery-related complications, deep infection occurred in one hip, and revision THA was required in one patient with recurrent dislocation and aseptic loosening.
Conclusions: THA for dialysis hip arthropathy in long-term hemodialysis patients is associated with substantial local and general risks. Despite the substantial risk, THA for this patient population seems to afford reasonably satisfactory results.