The Implications of Obesity on Total Hip Arthroplasties: A Literature Review of the Associated Complications

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a global pandemic and public health crisis associated with a wide range of comorbidities, including osteoarthritis, leading to a significantly younger age at the time of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and an increased rate of complications compared to nonobese individuals. As our population continues to get older, combined with an increasing rate of obesity, an increased rate of consultations for total hip arthroplasty is expected. This has led to concerns regarding the implications of obesity on the need for THA itself and the associated complications, especially for arthroplasty surgeons. Unfortunately, few articles provide an all-encompassing review of different complications surrounding obesity within orthopedic surgery, and even fewer around total hip arthroplasty. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the implications obesity has on total hip arthroplasties, its associated complications, and how we can potentially modify these risks. Methods: Sources and research articles were identified by searching the databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) from 2000 to July 2022. Our search used the specific terms located within the abstract/title, including: “total hip arthroplasty” AND “complications,” AND “obesity, OR obese.” Inclusion criteria for research articles were the English language and peer-reviewed articles published from inception to July 2022. Articles not directly examining the effect of obesity on the incidence of complications following primary THA were excluded. Studies with outcomes of interest included the incidence of postoperative complications, primary THA in obese patients, and clinical outcome measures. A total of 265 studies were identified upon initial search. Thirty-one articles were selected for reference in this literature review. Results: Obese patients undergo primary THA at an earlier age and experience an increased duration of surgery, higher rates of infection, dislocation, periprosthetic fractures, and venous thromboembolism compared to nonobese patients. The role of pre-operative bariatric surgery before total hip arthroplasty has failed to show reductions in complication rates. Harris Hip Scores are lower in obese patients pre-operatively and post-operatively, but the degree of improvement following THA is similar compared to nonobese patients. Long-term survival of total hip prostheses is similar when compared to nonobese patients. Conclusion: Current literature strongly suggests increased complication rates in obese patients who undergo THA. This phenomenon is not solely due to biomechanical forces and is multifactorial, including inflammatory and genetic predispositions, which need further study. The decision to perform THA on obese patients should not solely be based on BMI. Other factors, such as management of comorbidities, surgical exposure, and nursing care, should be considered when deciding on surgical candidacy.