Partial weightbearing is not necessary after cementless total hip arthroplasty

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of partial and full weightbearing after cementless total hip arthroplasty over a two year follow-up period. Fifty-nine women and 41 men (average age 61 years) received an uncemented Spotorno stem and were randomised into a full and a partial weightbearing group. No significant difference was found between the groups with regard to the Merle d’ Aubigne hip score, VAS pain level, shaft migration or radiographic signs of bony ingrowth. All femoral components seemed radiologically well-fixed and showed bone ingrowth at 24 months. Provided that solid initial fixation is obtained full weightbearing immediately after cementless total hip arthroplasty using a hydroxyapatite-coated Spotorno-type femoral shaft component can be recommended.