Total Hip Arthroplasty Following the Girdlestone Procedure in a Sickle Cell Disease Patient

Abstract

Sickle cell disease often leads to avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip joint, resulting in joint pain and restricted range of motion. In cases where traditional treatments like total hip arthroplasty or core decompression may not suffice, the Girdlestone procedure, involving the resection of the femoral head, is considered. This case study centers on a 19-year-old male nursing student with sickle cell disease who underwent a Girdlestone procedure at 16 years of age, seeking relief from hip pain and limited mobility. However, the procedure led to leg length discrepancy and reduced hip function. Subsequent total hip arthroplasty successfully converted the prior procedure into a stable joint, improving the patient's range of motion and eliminating pain. The comprehensive surgical approach, including soft tissue releases and postoperative rehabilitation, significantly enhanced the patient's quality of life, emphasizing the importance of total hip arthroplasty as a superior intervention post-Girdlestone procedure.