Comparative Study of Functional Outcomes Between Cemented and Uncemented Total Hip Replacement at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Total hip replacement (THR) is a widely performed surgical procedure for end-stage hip disorders. The choice between cemented and uncemented fixation remains debated, particularly in younger versus elderly populations. This study compared the functional, radiological, and clinical outcomes of cemented and uncemented THRs in a tertiary care hospital Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 60 patients undergoing primary THR. Patients were divided into two groups: cemented (n = 30) and uncemented (n = 30). Functional outcomes were assessed using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Radiological union was evaluated using standard anteroposterior radiographs, and complications were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and t-tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in HHS postoperatively. At 6 months, the mean HHS was 85.6 ± 4.8 in the cemented group and 87.1 ± 5.1 in the uncemented group (p = 0.24). Radiological union was achieved earlier in the cemented group (mean 10.2 weeks) compared to the uncemented group (mean 12.1 weeks), though not statistically significant (p = 0.07). Complication rates were low and comparable, with 2 superficial infections and 1 case of thigh pain in the cemented group, and 1 case of delayed integration and 1 minor limb length discrepancy in the uncemented group. No dislocations, aseptic loosening, or revision surgeries were reported. Conclusion: Both cemented and uncemented THRs provided excellent short-term outcomes with significant functional improvement and minimal complications. Cemented hips demonstrated earlier radiological union, whereas uncemented hips showed slightly better functional outcomes, though differences were not statistically significant. Both fixation methods are safe and effective; choice should be guided by patient age, bone quality, and activity level. Long-term follow-up is necessary to evaluate implant survivorship in the Indian population.