Bamboo Stick Versus Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients with End-Stage Osteoarthritis

A Pilot Comparative Study in a Resource-Limited Setting

Umbwana, P., Prof. Dr.
Department of Improvised Orthopedics and Contextual Surgery
Somewhere University, Somewhere

Abstract

Background
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is widely regarded as the definitive treatment for end-stage hip osteoarthritis. However, its applicability in settings without sterile operating theatres, peri-operative antibiotics, or trained orthopedic surgeons remains unclear. Low-cost alternatives deserve exploration.

Objective
To compare outcomes of bamboo stick–based conservative management with improvised total hip arthroplasty in patients with end-stage hip osteoarthritis.

Methods
In this pilot study, six patients (N = 6) with radiographically confirmed end-stage hip osteoarthritis were allocated to either bamboo stick–assisted ambulation (BS group, n = 3) or total hip arthroplasty (THA group, n = 3). Outcomes included survival, infection, pain relief, functional mobility, and patient satisfaction.

Results
All patients in the THA group developed severe postoperative infections and subsequently died. No infections or deaths occurred in the bamboo stick group, where patients reported acceptable pain control and high satisfaction.

Conclusion
In the absence of sterile surgical conditions, peri-operative antibiotics, and trained orthopedic surgeons, total hip arthroplasty cannot be recommended.