Analysis of the Functional Outcome of Limb Length Discrepancy after Total Hip Replacement

Background: The Aim of the study was to analyze the functional outcome of limb length discrepancy after total hip replacement. . Methods: It is a Prospective study on 21 patients who underwent total hip replacement with different hip pathology between November 2015 and October 2017. Results: 13 males and 8 females patients with a mean age of 35.31±7.42 (21-50) were followed up for a time of 12months. Limb length discrepancy and hip function of 21 patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty were assessed before surgery and 1month, 3 month and 12 month after surgery. Limb length discrepancy was evaluated before and after surgery by clinical and radiological method, Functional outcome assessed by using the Oxford hip score (OHS) and Harris hip score(HHS). Preoperatively all patients had shorter limb length as compared to contra lateral side. Postoperatively in 42.9% (9/21) the limb operated on was longer, in 19 %( 4/21) of cases limb operated on was shorter and in 31 %( 8/21) postoperative limb length were equal. Postoperatively limb length discrepancy was present in 61.9 %( 13/21) & was perceived by 53.8 %( 7/13 of cases) when either shortening or lengthening exceeded 10mm. Oxford hip score (OHS) and Harris hip score (HHS) were significantly increased at subsequent follow up (at 1, 3 and 12 months). Functional scores (OHS and HHS) were excellent in patients with equal limb length as compared to those having shorter or longer limb length. Conclusion: Patient with limb length discrepancy had negative influence in relation to limping and pain. Patients should be counseled preoperatively about possible limb length differences and associated symptoms.