Background: Total hip replacement (THR) for Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is still challenging due to specific joint deformities and the high incidence of post-operative complications.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effect of trochanteric slide osteotomy (TSO) combined with a cementless femoral conical stem in THR for the treatment of Crowe type IV DDH.
Methods: Thirty-one total hip replacements (26 patients) with Crowe type IV DDH were performed using TSO combined with a cementless femoral conical stem. Surgical outcomes were evaluated using leg length discrepancy (LLD), Harris hip score, and post-operative complications.
Results: The average pre-operative LLD was 51 mm (range 46-58 mm), decreasing to an average of 10 mm (range 8-12 mm) post-operatively. As a result, the post-operative incidence of the Trendelenburg sign significantly decreased compared with the pre-operative incidence (P< 0.05). Bony union was identified in 26 hips (83.9%), fibrous union in four (12.9%), and non-union in one (3.2%). No acetabular or femoral component loosening, dislocation, or deep infection around the component was found in any of the patients during the follow-up period (27 to 39 months). The average Harris hip score improved from 63.0 ± 3.0 (range 58-69) to 93.3 ± 2.0 (range 91-96).
Conclusion: TSO combined with a cementless conical stem in THR is an appropriate option for patients with high congenital hip dislocation.
Keywords: Hip dysplasia; conical stem; greater trochanter; hip replacement; slide osteotomy.