The impact of standard combined anteversion definitions on gait and clinical outcome within one year after total hip arthroplasty

Purpose Different target areas within the concept of combined cup and stem anteversion have been published for total hip arthroplasty (THA). We asked whether component positioning according to eight standard combined anteversion rules is associated with (1) more physiological gait patterns, (2) higher improvement of gait variables and (3) better clinical outcome after THA. Methods In a prospective clinical study, 60 patients received cementless THA through an anterolateral MIS approach in a lateral decubitus position. Six weeks postoperatively, implant position was analysed using 3D-CT by an independent external institute. Preoperatively, six and 12 months postoperatively range of motion, normalized walking speed and hip flexion symmetry index were measured using 3D motion-capture gait analysis. Patient-related outcome measures (HHS, HOOS, EQ-5D) were obtained by an observer blinded to 3D-CT results. Eight combined anteversion definitions and Lewinnek's "safe zone" were evaluated regarding their impact on gait patterns and clinical outcome. Results Combined cup and stem anteversion according to standard combined anteversion definitions as well as cup placement within Lewinnek's "safe zone" did not influence range of motion, normalized walking speed and/or hip flexion symmetry index six and 12 months after THA. Similarly, increase of gait parameters within the first year after THA was comparable between all eight combined anteversion rules. Clinical outcome measures like HHS, HOOS and EQ-5D did not show any benefit for either of the combined anteversion definitions. Conclusions Standard combined cup and stem anteversion rules do not improve postoperative outcome as measured by gait analysis and clinical scores within one year after THA.