SIGNIFICANCE OF THE TRENDELENBURG TEST IN TOTAL HIP-ARTHROPLASTY - INFLUENCE OF LATERAL APPROACHES

The effects of lateral approaches to total hip arthroplasty on abducto r weakness and limp were studied in 264 patients with primary osteoart hritis. The Hardinge approach was used in 82 patients, the transtrocha nteric approach in 94, and the Liverpool approach in 88. There was no difference in functional level, range of movement, and limp among thre e lateral approaches. There was no increase in Trendelenburg gait afte r the Hardinge or Liverpool approach compared with the transtrochanter ic approach. It is evident that the Trendelenburg test is a useful par t of clinical examination if performed and interpreted correctly.