Hip resurfacing and osteonecrosis: results from an independent hip resurfacing register

Abstract

Single surgeon studies from specialized centers have suggested that metal-on-metal hip resurfacing in patients with osteonecrosis of hip joint provides good implant survival and function. We tested the hypothesis that multicenter results of hip resurfacing, in terms of function and survival, are similar between patients with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis. 192 patients (202 hips) underwent metal-on-metal hip resurfacing at different centers around the world. We compared the revision risks in 95 patients (101 hips) with osteonecrosis and 97 patients (101 hips) with osteoarthritis. The mean age at operation was 42 and 43 years and the preoperative and postoperative Harris hip scores were 62 and 96 and 58 and 95 for osteonecrosis and osteoarthritis groups. Survival with revision for any reason as the end point at last follow-up was 97.7% for osteonecrosis and 95.0% for osteoarthritis. We conclude that hip resurfacing can be offered to patients with osteonecrosis.