Abstract
Introduction. Leg length inequality post total hip arthroplasty is a source of patient dissatisfaction. In adult DDH femoral length equality is assumed. Empirically, a longer femur has been observed on the affected side in the presence of unilateral DDH; restoration of the hip centre in this situation may lengthen the affected leg.
Aim. Assessment of femoral length variation in adults with unilateral and bilateral DDH.
Method. Retrospective observation study of 17 adults with unilateral and 7 adults with bilateral DDH. Femoral lengths assessed using CT measurements.
Results. Unilateral DDH. The ipsilateral femur was longer in 11 patients (63%) The degree of femoral lengthening was between 5 and 10 mm. Bilateral DDH. The femur with the greater degree of DDH was longer by a mean of 7.5 19.3 mm .
Conclusion. In the presence of DDH, asymmetry of femoral lengths is common and unpredictable. Careful femoral length assessment ( with CT leg lengths) is advised preoperatively in patients with DDH. This will alert the surgeon and patient to the possible risk of post operative ipsilateral leg lengthening.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Roger Lemaire. Correspondence should be addressed to EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
