[Arthrodesis of the hip joint as a treatment of degenerative changes--anachronism or an alternative for endoprosthetic arthroplasty?].

On the basis of the observation of 22 patients with arthrodesis of the hip (the average age -- 34 years), the value of the method in the treatment of osteoarthritis that joint has been discussed. The comparison of intraarticular arthrodesis with stable compression with pelvis osteotomy and stabilization by the "cobra" plate has proved that the second method is better because of elimination of immobilization by a plaster cast and low percentage of complications of union. The clinical analysis of the majority of the patients has not revealed negative influence of arthrodesis on the other hip, the lumbar spine and the knee. Arthrodesis of the hip has improved walking efficiency and ability to work in 17 from 22 patients. Very good and good results have been obtained in 16 patients, fair in 3, and poor in 3.