The study was undertaken in order to characterize the clinical and radiological results of total hip arthroplasty using a fully rough blasted stem with proximal hydroxyapatite coating in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Twenty three total hip arthroplasties were performed using CLS stems in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Mean patient age of the patients and follow-up period were 53 and 6.8 years, respectively. Both clinical and radiographical parameters were evaluated.

Chronological change of Harris hip score showed good results after 1 year. Harris hip score and the incidence of thigh pain at the last follow-up were 94 and one case, respectively. The mean time weight bearing without support was 12.5 weeks. Most endosteal bone formations around the stem appeared in the first 3 to 6 months. This was present in more than 80% of cases in zones 1, 2, 6, 7 and from 50 to 70% of cases even in zones 3, 4, 5 at the final follow-up. Loosening or implant failure was not found. Incomplete calcar fracture occurred in three cases, liner fracture around the femoral stem in one, heterotrophic ossification in one and superficial infection in one.

The total hip arthroplasty using a CLS stem with a proximal HA coating may be a good choice in rheumatoid arthritis patients requiring hip arthroplasty.