HIP FUSION IN YOUNG-ADULTS

Hip arthrodesis remains an option for treatment of severe arthritis in young persons resulting primarily from osteonecrosis, congenital dysp lasia, and joint sepsis, The authors reviewed six patients who underwe nt fusions as young adults (average age: 30.8 years) with an average f ollow-up period of 11.7 years, Solid arthrodesis without infection was noted in all cases, Patients who worked returned to prior employment without limitation, All patients complained of symptomatic low back pa in and felt ambulation was limited by ipsilateral knee pain, Five of s ix noted impaired sexual function; although childbearing was not affec ted in one case, Four of six were satisfied with the operation, but on ly three of six would undergo it again given the alternative of total joint arthroplasty.