Early Results of Total Hip Arthroplasty in the Super-Obese Patients

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in super-obese patients compared to a cohort who had a normal body mass index (BMI). Twenty patients (23 hips) who had a minimum BMI of 50 kg/m2 who underwent a primary THA between 2001 and 2010 were reviewed. They had a mean age of 50 years and follow-up of 36 months. These patients were compared (1:2 ratio) to a matched group of 40 patients (46 hips) who had a normal body mass index (less than 25 kg/m2) who underwent a THA during the same time period. Outcomes evaluated included implant survivorship, Harris hip scores, and complication rates. Overall, aseptic implant survivorship was lower in the super-obese patients compared to the matching group (96% versus 100%), but the difference was not significant. However, super-obese patients had significantly lower mean Harris hip scores (84 vs 91 points) and higher complication rate at final follow-up. Although the clinical outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty were poorer in the super-obese patients, it is encouraging that even in these patients, total hip arthroplasty can have acceptable outcomes. However, these patients may benefit from a discussion with their orthopaedic surgeons to develop realistic expectations from the outcomes of their arthroplasty procedure.