Abstract
Objective : We assessed the results of bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures in the normal hips of rheumatoid patients.
Methods : Bipolar hemiarthroplasty was conducted on 10 displaced femoral neck fractures in the normal hips of 9 rhematoid patients averaging 68.2 years old. Women numbered 8 and men 1. Average follow-up was 2 years 5 months ranging from 10 months to 5 years 1 month. Clinical results were assessed by Japanese Orthopaedics Association scoring, especially for pain. Plain x-rays of hips at follow-up examination were compared to x-rays taken immediately after surgery.
Results : Central migration was observed in only one case at the final examination, but no complaints about the hip joint were found.
Conclusion : Our results suggest that bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral neck fractures in the normal hips of rheumatoid patients may prove to be the procedure of choice, but careful evaluation is necessary for indications of THA especially for patients with longer life expectancy.
