BILATERAL TOTAL HIP AND KNEE ARTHROPLASTY IN A PATIENT WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS. A CASE REPORT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology characterized by synovial hyperplasia and resulting joint destruction. Despite reduced needs for total joint arthroplasty in the treatment of end-stage damage of the hip and knee in RA, many patients still require hip and knee arthroplasty to restore the hip function and quality of life. We present the surgical treatment of young RA patient with bilateral total hip and bilateral knee arthroplasty at the Clinic of Orthopaedics and Traumatology Clinical Center Niš. Male patient with seropositive RA was implanted with bilateral total hip and knee over a period of 4 years (2008 to 2011). At the time of the first left hip arthroplasty, the patient was 32 years old. Surgical treatment in all arthroplasty procedures passed without complications. At the control examination 3 years after the last surgery, the patient was walking without mobility aids. His walk was safe and stable. The postoperative scars on hips and knees were stable, with no signs of inflammation. The flexion of the knees was possible till 110 degrees, and the extension to the full capacity.The patient resumed his work and life activities, and now he works as a game warden. He normally performs everyday activities, including climbing to the watchtower. Total hip and knee arthroplasty in rheumathoid arthritis patients with advanced joint destruction is a successful solution.