Determinants of satisfaction following total hip arthroplasty in patients with ankylosing spondylitis

Background The aim was to explore the factors contributing to a high degree of satisfaction following total hip arthroplasty in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and hip joint fusion. Methods From January 2001 to June 2015, 43 patients with ankylosing spondylitis were treated with total hip arthroplasty. The patients were divided into two groups, including 20 patients in non-fusion groups, with 25 cases of hip non-fusion, and 23 patients in fusion groups, with 40 cases of hip fusion. Patients were followed for an average of 27 months. Harris hip scores (HHSs) and Barthel scores were recorded pre-operatively and post-operatively. The improvement rates of both groups were calculated, and the data were compared and analyzed. The Self-Administered Patient Satisfaction Scale (SAPS) was used to assess the degree of satisfaction in each group. Results The post-operative HHS and Barthel scores of two groups both significantly improved. In non-fusion groups compared with fusion groups, there were significant differences in the pre-operative HHSs, the improvement of the HHSs, the pre-operative Barthel score, the improvement of the Barthel score, and the satisfaction score. However, there were no significant differences in the post-operative HHSs and Barthel scores. Conclusion Patients in the hip fusion group had higher satisfaction scores. The improvements in joint function and self-care ability after total hip arthroplasty are the decisive factors in determining patient satisfaction for patients with ankylosing spondylitis combined with hip fusion.