An evaluation of primary resection of the head of the femur with or without subtrochanteric angulation osteotomy

Abstract

Fifty-six patients, whose average age was 64 years and who had primarily undergone resection of the femoral head with or without subtrochanteric angulation, were examined clinically and by radiographs at an average of 11.5 years after the operation. The functional activity of the patients, the mobility and stability of the operated hip joint as well as the resulting shortening of the leg and the radiographic results were assessed. The result was very good in 9 patients and in 36 patients was good or satisfactory. Eleven patients had poor results. On the other hand 52 of the patients were subjectively satisfied with the late result of the operation, although they often felt that the hip was unstable and that one leg was shorter than the other. Muscular development played an important part in achieving the functional result. There was often an increase in mobility and stability after years had passed, especially in younger patients who persisted with active exercises after the operation.