OBJECTIVETo evaluate indications and clinical results of total hip arthroplasties for degenerative hips with history of infection.

METHODSSeven cases of degenerative hip with history of infection underwent primary total hip arthroplasties, which involved 5 males and 2 females, with an average age of 45.8 years (range, 30 to 65 years). The quiescent period of infection were more than 10 years in all hips. According to Kim classification, 3 cases were of type I, and 4 of type II. The method to exclude active infection at the site of degenerative hips preoperatively was combination of physical examination, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein level. The lateral incision was adopted in all cases, and all prosthesis were cementless. The clinical results of affected hips were assessed according to Harris hip score.

RESULTSThe follow-up was performed with the mean duration of 33.5 months (range, 21 to 44 months). No recurrence of infection, damage of nerve function or deep vein thrombosis of lower extremities occurred in all cases. The mean Harris hip scores improved from 44.5 points preoperatively to 84 points at the latest follow-up. No aseptic loosening of prosthesis or periprosthetic osteolysis were found at the latest follow-up.

CONCLUSIONTotal hip arthroplasties has good short term results for degenerative hips with history of infection. It is important to select indicated cases and rule out the possibility of active infection.