Girdlestone resection arthroplasty of the hip (GRA): a case series-outdated procedure or acceptable outcome?

Abstract

Despite considerable legacy issues, Girdlestone's resection arthroplasty (GRA) remains a valuable tool in the armoury of the arthroplasty surgeon. When reserved for massive lysis in the context of extensive medical co-morbidities which preclude staged or significant surgical interventions, and/or the presence of pelvic discontinuity, GRA as a salvage procedure can have satisfactory outcomes. These outcomes include infection control, pain control and post-op function. We describe a case series of 13 cases of GRA and comment of the indications, peri, and post-operative outcomes.

Keywords: Girdlestone resection arthroplasty; Prosthetic join infection; Total hip arthroplasty.