What Researchers Did
In this study, researchers reviewed the outcomes of 42 Girdlestone procedures performed on 39 spinal cord injured patients over a ten-year period.
What They Found
The study found no operative mortality among 39 patients who underwent 42 Girdlestone procedures. Seventy percent of the wounds healed, while 30% failed to heal, necessitating further surgery. Recurrences were observed in 10% of patients, also requiring additional operations.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients with spinal cord injuries experiencing septic hip arthritis or osteomyelitis may benefit from the Girdlestone procedure. This treatment approach requires comprehensive surgical debridement, prolonged intravenous antibiotic therapy, and diligent postoperative care to achieve successful outcomes.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A limitation of this study is its retrospective design and the absence of a comparative control group.