HEALTH Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Hip Fracture Evaluation with Alternatives of Total Hip Arthroplasty versus Hemi-Arthroplasty (HEALTH)
IRAS ID
152258
Contact name
Julie Rowbotham
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
McMaster University
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN59890378
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Hip fracture have a great impact on an individuals independence and quality of life. Many patients loose their independence after sustaining a hip fracture and about 20-30% require day to day care. Hip fractures are also associated with a high mortality rate of 25-30% within one year.
Certain types of hip fractures (displaced femoral neck fractures) are commonly treated with joint replacement surgery. This involves replacing part or the entire hip joint with artificial (usually metal) parts. The two common types of joint replacements are hemiarthroplasty (a partial hip replacement) and total hip replacement. Some surgeons believe that hemiarthroplasty has fewer complications whilst others believe that total hip replacement gives a better function. It is however not known whether one really gives better results than the other.
This randomised controlled trial compares the two types of hip replacement in patients 65 years and older with a femoral neck fracture who were independently mobile prior to their fracture. Following informed consent patients will be randomised to receive either type of hip replacement. The operations will be carried out by surgeons experienced in both techniques. Patients will be independently assessed either in clinic or by telephone before their operation and at 1 and 10 weeks, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months after their hip replacement. X-rays will be carried out as necessary and at 24 months.
The main outcome is the rate of further surgery, e.g. to reduce a dislocated hip replacement, revision surgery for infection or further fracture or exchange of the hip replacement to a different type. The study further looks at function, mobility and general health.
REC name
North East - York Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NE/1147
Date of REC Opinion
16 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion