J Orthop. 2020 Nov-Dec; 22: 571–578.

Complication rates of bilateral total hip versus unilateral total hip arthroplasty are similar

Travis R. Flick,∗ Sione A. Ofa, Akshar H. Patel, Bailey J. Ross, Fernando L. Sanchez, and William F. Sherman

Hip

Objective

Utilize a nationwide database to identify and compare the differences between patient demographics and clinical outcomes for patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA) and unilateral THA.

Methods

A nationwide administrative claims database was utilized; In-hospital, 90-day, and 1-year post-discharge rates of local and systemic complications were collected and compared with multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Incidence of prosthetic joint infection was significantly lower in the bilateral cohort. Length of stay was significantly shorter in the unilateral THA cohort.

Conclusion

Surgeons should consider simultaneous bilateral THA a safe and effective procedure for low risk patients with appropriate comorbidities.

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