Total hip arthroplasty for developmental hip dysplasia.

We reviewed 38 hip replacements in 33 female patients (mean age 55.3 years) with developmental hip dysplasia. One patient had died and the remaining 32 patients (36 hips) had a mean follow-up of 12.2 years (range 8-19 years). All hips were replaced using the Müller cemented implant, and in 32 hips bulk femoral head autograft was used. In 33 hips the socket was reconstructed at the level of the true acetabulum. Complications included one intra-operative femoral fracture and two early dislocations. Correction of leg length discrepancy was possible in 30 patients. The post-operative mean modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores for pain, movement and walking were 5.9, 5, and 5.3 respectively. One cup was revised due to aseptic loosening at ten years. All grafts united, but minor graft resorption was noticed in 24 hips, moderate in 2 hips and major in 1 hip.