Early results of total hip arthroplasty in the super-obese patients

The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) in super-obese patients compared to a cohort who had a normal body mass index (BMI). Twenty patients (23 hips) who had a minimum BMI of 50 kg/m2 who underwent a primary THA between 2001 and 2010 were reviewed. They had a mean age of 50 years and follow-up of 36 months. These patients were compared (1:2 ratio) to a matched group of 40 patients (46 hips) who had a normal body mass index (less than 25 kg/m2) who underwent a THA during the same time period. Outcomes evaluated included implant survivorship, Harris hip scores, and complication rates. Overall, aseptic implant survivorship was lower in the super-obese patients compared to the matching group (96% versus 100%), but the difference was not significant. However, super-obese patients had significantly lower mean Harris hip scores (84 vs 91 points) and higher complication rate at final followup. Although the clinical outcomes of primary total hip arthroplasty were poorer in the super-obese patients, it is encouraging that even in these patients, total hip arthroplasty can have acceptable outcomes. However, these patients may benefit from a discussion with their orthopaedic surgeons to develop realistic expectations from the outcomes of their arthroplasty procedure. © 2014 by Begell House, Inc.