Proximal femoral replacement for metastatic bone disease

Between 1994 and 2000, 13 patients (8 women and 5 men; 14 hips) underwent proximal femoral replacement secondary to metastatic disease. Average patient age was 62 years (range: 46-77 years). The most common diagnosis was renal cell carcinoma. Seven pathologic fractures were noted. Patients ambulated with full weight bearing postoperatively and wore an abduction brace for 3-4 months. Ten patients died of their diseases at 0.5-3.5 years post-operatively. No dislocations, infections, or reoperations occurred. Proximal femoral replacement provides excellent pain relief and good restoration of function when more simple reconstructive options are not feasible.