Gluteus maximus transfer following THA does not improve abductor strength - a case-control gait analysis study of 15 patients with gluteus medius disruption

The investigators have compared 15 gluteus maximus transferred patients with the use of a gait analysis system based on reflective markers and force plates to objectively evaluate the gait performance pre- and postoperatively.

The gluteus maximus flap transfer (GMT) is a surgical technique to improve gait kinematics and kinetics as well as reduce pain and ameliorate functional outcome in patients with hip abductor deficiency of the gluteus medius following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The investigators used a gait analysis system based on reflective markers and force plates to objectively evaluate gait performance pre- and postoperatively.

Methods Gait analysis was performed in 15 patients who underwent GMT and were examined with an optical tracking system before and at a minimum of 13 months after the operation. Mean age was 69 years (SD=11), all were females. Median follow-up time was 24 (13-60) months. The primary outcome was hip abduction moment (Nm/kg) during gait. The control group consisted of 66 subjects without any gait pathology.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with hip abductor deficiency of the gluteus medius following total hip arthroplasty (THA)

Exclusion Criteria:

• THA prior to the muscle transfer

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After publication and 2 years after publication