Abstract: Background: Since the introduction of cemented total hip arthroplasty in Cameroon in the 2000’s, literature on long-term results is sparse. We report on the outcome of primary cemented total hip arthroplasty at least 10 years after surgery.
Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 40 consecutive primary cemented total hip arthroplasties performed between 2000 and 2012 in Yaoundé (Cameroon) and followed-up for a minimum period of 10 years. The patient’s mean age was 46.4 years (range 13-66 years) and male to female ratio was 2:1. Clinical and functional evaluation included the Harris hip score (HHS), Merle d’ Aubigne and Postel Score (PMA), visual analogue scales and patient’s satisfaction. Antero-posterior (AP) radiographs of the pelvis or affected hip were evaluated on a consensus basis by two orthopaedic surgeons. Implant survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves with the primary end point being revision or need for revision for any reason.
Results: The ten-year survivorship of cemented total hip arthroplasty in Yaoundé was 35%. Results in all operated patients showed marked decreased in Harris hip score and PMA score at 10 years follow-up. The most common immediate complication was dislocation (20%) and long-term complication was Periprosthetic fracture (16%). The current state of unsatisfied patients was 62.5%. The outward appearance of the affected hip was characterized by atrophy of muscles (45%), limping (45%), Limb length discrepancy (45%). Acetabular osteolysis was present at 25% and radiolucent lines at the stem-cement interface were seen in 20(50%) hips.
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that the 10 years clinical outcomes of the cemented total hip arthroplasty was poor in our setting, with a low survival rate. It is worth mentioning that these were the very first series of THA performed in Cameroon, and that these results can be linked to the learning curve.
