[Digastric trochanterotomy in reoperated total hip prostheses. Apropos of 53 cases]

Abstract

A new technic of trochanteric osteotomy preserving the attachment of the vastus-lateralis is described: this procedure leads to mobilize the greater trochanter which becomes interposed between the gluteus-medius upward and the vastus-lateralis downward. A true digastric muscle is therefore realized where functional integrity is preserved. The biomechanical and vascular advantages of this surgical approach are used in revisions of total hip arthroplasties in which a large exposure is often required. This procedure, used in 53 consecutive cases, has allowed to suppress the trochanteric non unions which jeopardized the functional results of revision surgery, especially in high grade femoral loosenings.