STUDY OF PATIENTS WITH HIP ARTHROPLASTY AT MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL

The late results of mold arthroplasty for disease of the hip were studied in 171 patients who were available for reexamination five or more years after the operation. Among these patients there were 201 mold arthroplasties to be reviewed, 81 (the largest group) for degenerative arthritis and 51 for congenital dislocation and subluxation. Ability to function and freedom from pain were assessed for each patient. Results were classified as excellent, good, or satisfactory in 164 hips (81.5% of operations among the 171 patients) and unsatisfactory in 37. The analysis showed that all the results classified as excellent were in patients in whom the disease had been unilateral and that bilateral disease was a severe handicap. Supplementary surgery was necessary in 12% of patients. These difficulties must be balanced against the excellent results frequently obtained with complete relief from pain in 27 % and unlimited walking in 24 % of patients.