Surgical Reconstruction Using Achilles Tendon Allograft Versus Physiotherapy for Gluteus Medius Insufficiency After Hip Replacement

What this Trial Is About

Residual limping due to gluteus medius insufficiency after total hip replacement is a serious complication without effective treatment. This study aims to compare surgical reconstruction of the gluteus medius using an Achilles tendon allograft with non-surgical physiotherapy treatment. The hypothesis is that surgery followed by physiotherapy will improve hip function and reduce limping more than physiotherapy alone. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group undergoes surgical reconstruction where an Achilles tendon allograft with a calcaneus block is fixed to the greater trochanter and tensioned through the gluteus medius muscle, followed by partial weight bearing for 2 months and 10 months of physiotherapy. The other group receives only physiotherapy for 12 months without surgery. Throughout the study, participants will be assessed at 12 months using the Oxford Hip Score to measure hip function. Additional evaluations include Trendelenburgs sign, hip abduction strength, activity levels, quality of life indexes, and monitoring of any adverse events. The total study duration for each participant is 12 months, with close observation of treatment outcomes and safety.

Achilles Tendon for the Treatment of Gluteus Medius Insufficiency