Total hip arthroplasty in patients with cerebral palsy.

The records of 16 patients (16 hips) with cerebral palsy who underwent total hip arthroplasty were reviewed. There were no dislocations, and other complications were rare. Pain relief was good to excellent in 87%. Function, as assessed by ambulatory status, was improved in 79%. Reasonable longevity of the implants can be expected even in patients <50 years. Total hip arthroplasty is a valuable option for the cerebral palsy patient with incapacitating hip pain.