Patient satisfaction after total hip arthroplasty in an Egyptian population as an example of a developing country

Abstract

Background: Cementless total hip arthroplasty is a solution for advanced hip arthritis. Although in many patients the operation appears successful clinically and radiographically, often many are not completely satisfied. This study was done to evaluate the intermediate results of cementless total hip replacement and its relation to satisfaction in Egyptian patients. Methods: This was a prospective study of 129 patients (153 hips) who had cementless total hip replacement. Clinical evaluation was done using the Harris Hip Score, a modified questionnaire, and radiographic evaluation. Statistical analysis was conducted. Results: The mean Harris Hip Score improved from 44.10 preoperatively to 90.40 at the end of follow-up and this was statistically significant (P<0.001). Range of motion and lower limb discrepancy improved postoperatively and this also was statistically significant (P<0.001). In regard to the modified questionnaire, 51 of 129 (39.5%) respondents noted that their expectations regarding the outcome of total hip arthroplasty had not been fulfilled 2 yr postoperatively, and this dissatisfaction continued until final follow-up despite 43 patients scoring over 90 on the Harris Hip Score. The correlation between the Harris Hips Score and the modified questionnaire was not significant. Conclusions: Although cementless total hip arthroplasty is a successful salvage operation for many hip problems, it still did not completely fulfill the daily requirements and habits of patients in our developing country.