Dwarfism Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Dwarfism, including details on genetics, diet, mental and motor development.

Total hip arthroplasty in dwarfism. A case report.

De Fine M, Traina F, Palmonari M, Tassinari E, Toni A

1st Unit of Orthopaedic Surgery, Laboratory for Medical Technology (LTM), Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via Pupilli 1, 40136, Bologna, Italy.

In dwarfism hip arthritis, usually secondary to hip dysplasia, is a common finding at an early age. In these patients a joint replacement is a demanding procedure due to the peculiar joint deformity and the small size of the bones. We present a case of a bilateral hip replacement in a dwarf patient. In order to reduce intraoperative complications and improve the joint kinematics a thorough preoperative planning was performed by a CT based computerised system. On the basis of the planning we chose a conical shaped stem that enable as to restore limb length and offset with a low risk of femoral fracture. In conclusion, we consider total hip replacement in dwarfism a safe and effective procedure if an accurate preoperative planning is performed.

Published 14 April 2008 in Chir Organi Mov.
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