Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the treatment options in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) with painful osteoarthritis of the hip. However, the risk of dislocation of the prosthesis is higher in patients with CP when compared with physically normal patients. In this retrospective study of ten consecutive cases, we hypothesized that the use of a dual-mobility cup could reduce this risk of dislocation combined with good functional results.
From January 2008 until October 2010, eight patients (ten hips) with CP who consecutively received a THA using a dual-mobility cup were identified. At the time of surgery, the average age of the patient group was 54 years (range 43-61). Latest follow-up took place after on average 39 months (range 22-56 months). All patients or their caregivers were interviewed by telephone. They were asked if dislocation of the prosthesis had occurred. To evaluate quality of life and health in general, patients completed the SF-36 questionnaire.
None of the prostheses had dislocated at the latest follow-up. Reoperation was needed in one patient after a periprosthetic fracture. Radiologic evaluation showed a mean cup inclination of 46 (range 27-58). On average, the quality of life of patients in this study was found to be limited in particular on the domains of physical health and functioning, while a fair to good score was measured at the six other different domains.
The use of a dual-mobility cup in THA in patients with CP can lead to favourable results with respect to dislocation and clinical outcome.