Fusion of the hip after the removal of a prosthesis has several disadvantages, chief among which is loss of femoral length. Arthrodesis with retention of the prosthesis preserves femoral length. Also, the operative procedure is simpler and carries less morbidity than if the prosthesis is removed. A possible drawback is the retention of a large metallic foreign body. In selected cases, it appears that the advantages of the procedure outweigh its disadvantages.
This method of salvage appears to be best suited to the patient who has markedly restricted hip motion, who is not too old or infirm to tolerate prolonged plaster immobilization, and who needs a painless stable hip.