Trochanteric Bursal Repair After a Total Hip Replacement - Are There Benefits During the First 90 Days

During total hip arthroplasty surgery, the trochanteric bursa is routinely excised. This anatomical structure, which functions as a soft tissue barrier, is typically recommended for removal as it facilitates the surgical approach. However, recent studies have suggested that the trochanteric bursa is an important soft tissue barrier and may provide protection against infections. The aim of this study is to evaluate the differences in infection rates, wound complications, deep gluteal syndrome presence, pain, and clinical scores within the first 90 days between patients in whom the trochanteric bursa was repaired and those in whom it was not, and to provide recommendations regarding bursal repair.

This research will be a prospective randomized controlled trial with patients subjected to sequential randomization. One group of patients will undergo the routine excision of the bursa during surgery, referred to as Group 1. In the other group, the trochanteric bursa will be carefully retracted and subsequently repaired in its anatomical location beneath the fascia after the surgical procedure. Wound closure will be performed routinely, with subcutaneous and skin closure. All patients will have a Hemovac drain placed, and they will follow the same rehabilitation protocol.

Patients will be evaluated on postoperative days15, 30, and 90 using Visual Analog Scale scores, and on days 30 and 90 using the Harris Hip Score. Additionally, patients will be assessed for tenderness on palpation, the presence of hip snapping (a sensation of the hip catching), hemoglobin drop, 90-day infection rates, and the presence of deep gluteal syndrome.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients between 18 to 90 years of age
• With a diagnosis of primary hip osteoarthritis
• Willing to be included in the study

Exclusion criteria

• Patients who had a known history of trochanteric bursitis, deep gluteal syndrome, sciatica, vertebral fracture, hip fracture, hip arthroscopy, and core decompression surgery
• Patients who had a history of bursal injection within 6 months
• Patients undergoing hip arthroplasty with a shortening osteotomy