Bipolar hemiarthroplasty for stage III sickle cell-related avascular necrosis of the femoral head: a successful alternative to total hip replacement

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to bring to the fore a simple, less expensive, biomechanically sound means of treating a devastating complication of sickle cell disease (SCD). SCD is a neglected haemoglobinopathy which is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality due to a genetic disorder. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head seen in sicklers is treated by total hip replacement which is expensive and fraught with complications of infection and revision in sickle cell patients. The simple bipolar hemiarthroplasty is easier to perform, less expensive, and relieves the patient of pain and limitation of movement.