Conversion of hip fusion to Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) through Direct Anterior Approach(DAA)

BackhroundsTechnical difficulties make conversion to THA from a fused hip a challenging procedurewith mixed results. Here we report our surgical technique and early results of conversion offused hips to THA via DAAMethodsBetween January 2013 and January 2017 we performed 15 conversions THA in 13 patientswith hip fusions through DAA. The procedure was performed on a standard table, in supineposition, and with or without fluoroscopy guidance. Patients were followed up for a meanof 3 years. The clinical and radiographic outcomes of this approach are reported in thisstudyResultsThere were 9 men and 6 women with a mean age of 56-32( 45) years old. The mean timeinterval between fusion and THA was 35-20( 26) years. The mean follow up period was -2(35) years. All acetabular components were in safe zone. There was one recurrent dislocationdue to abductor insufficiency. Preoperative Harris Hip Score 54-38(42) improved to -71(8797) PostoperativelyConclusionsWe believe that conversion THA in patients with previous hip fusion is easier and saferthrough DAA. This, in turn, is due to better access to the joint through anterior for theanatomy of hip joint and simpler fluoroscopic assistance in patients with supine position