[Early results of a prospective study in patients with computer-assisted femur shaft preparation in total hip endoprosthesis implantation (Robodoc system)--indications, outcome, complications].

AIM: Indications, results, advantages and disadvantages of the computer-guided femoral preparation in total hip arthroplasty (Robodoc) in our patients are recorded and represented.

METHOD: 41 patients who underwent a computer-guided femoral preparation in total hip arthroplasty (Robodoc) were examined after 1 year on average in a prospective study. The evaluation was made using the Harris Hip Score. The advantages and disadvantages of the Robodoc-assisted surgery are described.

RESULTS

More than 80% of the patients had a good or very good result (> 80 points of Harris Hip Score) 3 month after surgery; after 6 months in 20 of 21 patients a score of more than 85 pts. was calculated. The following complications were noticed: thrombotic embolism (2) with one lethal embolism included, fracture of the greater trochanter using the straight stem (3), aseptic drainage due to hematoma (2). 12 patients noticed a postoperative pain at the distal marking pin location (condylus femoris medialis) for an average of 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Generally, Robodoc-assisted surgery may be performed in all uncemented total hip arthroplasties. The individual indication should be checked because of the increased effort of surgery, the advantages and disadvantages, and the non-proven better long-term results in comparison to the regular technique. It seems that the Robodoc system provides advantages in post-traumatic arthritis and deformities of the proximal femur (varus and valgus neck) on account of the computer-aided preoperative planning and correct operative realization.