An intraoperative device to restore femoral offset in total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Leg length discrepancy (LLD) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) can lead to unsatisfactory outcome. Our objective was to design and evaluate a simple and reliable intraoperative device (Length-offset Lever) to minimize leg length discrepancy. METHODS This device was used in 51 patients undergoing primary total hip replacements. The leg length discrepancy was measured pre- and postoperatively based on plain radiographs. RESULTS Preoperative radiographic leg length discrepancy averaged 13.5 ± 6.2 mm. Leg length discrepancy showed significant improvement, with a postoperative average of 4.1 ± 2.3 mm (p < 0.0001). There were no complications associated with this device. CONCLUSIONS The 'Length-offset Lever' is a useful intraoperative tool to restore anatomic femoral offset and height of femoral head.