Clinical and radiologic outcome of total hip arthroplasty performed by trainee compared with consultant orthopedic surgeons

Data were prospectively collected on 139 total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed by supervised specialist registrars (residents) and 397 THAs performed by consultants. The Harris Hip Score and data on comorbidity, blood loss, transfusion requirements, re-operation, dislocation, and death were recorded. Radiologic assessment of acetabular and femoral component alignment and cementation was made using 114 trainee radiographs that were available for review at 6 months. These were compared with 114 matched consultant radiographs. At 18 months, there was no significant difference in clinical outcome. Acetabular anteversion was significantly less in trainee-performed THA. This article reveals no difference in the short-term clinical results of THA performed by consultants and supervised trainees. There is radiographic evidence of decreased anteversion of the acetabulum by trainees, although the dislocation rates are not different. Our results show that quality can be maintained while training juniors to perform surgery.