Lateral and distal transfer of the greater trochanter. Preliminary observations on a conservative surgical treatment for the osteoarthritic hip.

Although arthroplasty is the operation of choice for older patients with severe coxarthritis, in younger patients late mechanical complications cause serious problems. Upper femoral osteotomy based on Pauwels' principles has shown good results in some cases, but if total hip arthroplasty is needed later, the interference with the medullary canal adds considerably to the operative difficulties. The surgical procedure of transferring the greater trochanter distally and laterally was performed on 19 osteoarthritic hips. The clinical results were promising, producing relief of rest pain and increased range of movement. On radiologic examination the joint space reappeared or increased, even in severe cases. These results encourage further investigation of the procedure, especially because the absence of interference with the shape of the medullary canal does not add to the difficulties of possible later joint arthroplasty.