Girdlestone's operation: a follow-up study.

A study was made of 43 patients (48 hips) operated for diseases of the hip using Girdlestone's method. The follow-up time ranged from 2.5 to 13 years. For assessment of the post-operative results the following parameters were taken into consideration: pain, range of movement, gait and the patient's opinion. These were studied separately and in relation to the type of disease, the patient's age, and the time which had elapsed since the operation. Pain decreased in a considerable number of patients and range of movement and gait improved. The patients were generally in favor of the operation, and felt it had had a beneficial effect on their condition.