Abstract
Background
There are little data available on complication rates following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgery in Ireland.
Aims
To determine self-reported complication rates and national data for primary THA.
Methods
A postal questionnaire surveyed Irish orthopaedic association consultant members. Additional data were obtained from the economic and social research institute (ESRI).
Results
We achieved an 83% response rate. 5,424 THAs were self-reported. Mean dislocation rates were 1%, but higher using a posterior surgical approach (p < 0.05). Mean deep infection rates were 0.4%. 29% were MRSA. No reduction was reported from additional barrier prophylaxes. Mean venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) rates were 3.5%. No reduction was reported from commencing prophylaxis preoperatively or extending treatment duration. National rates for dislocation, deep infection and VTE were 25.7, 0.87, and <0.1%, respectively.
Conclusions
The creation of a National Hip Register is strongly recommended. A register would improve surgical practices and patient outcomes, and provide significant healthcare savings.
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Acknowledgments
The authors wish to acknowledge Aisling Mulligan at the Economic and Social Research Institute who provided all the national audit figures in this article. We would also like to thank all those who responded to our survey.
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Curtin, P., Harty, J., Sheehan, E. et al. Self-reported complication rates following primary total hip arthroplasty in Ireland: fact or fiction. Ir J Med Sci 180, 167–171 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0576-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-010-0576-1