Are Recommendations Followed after Total Hip Arthroplasty? A Questionnaire

Abstract

Introduction: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an operation that is successfully performed in patients with end-stage hip osteoarthritis. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the compliance level of primary THA patients with their doctor’s post-operative advice on restricted hip movements and environment modifications to prevent dislocation. Methods: A survey consisting of 14 questions was prepared, questioning 320 patients who underwent THA in our clinic between 2015 and 2021. One hundred and forty three patients agreed to participate in our study, and their answers regarding whether they followed the introductions recommended by the surgeon who performed the surgery were recorded. Results: 99% of the 143 patients who participated in the survey stated that they were given some advice. 46% (n=66) of the patients stated that they were told that these introductions should be applied for life. 60% of the patients did not cross their legs, 74% did not squat, 86% did not sit cross-legged, 76% did not use toilet risers, and 89% do not do unrecommended sports. Conclusion: Most patients complied with the surgeon’s recommendations in the early period; however, we observed that compliance decreased over time.

Keywords

• arthroplasty
• dislocation
• exercise
• hip
• motion
• prosthesis
• postoperative recommendations
• recommendations
• restriction