Abstract
Rapidly progressive osteoarthritis (RPO) is a rare condition which is poorly understood. Limited published literature is available. Reported here is a cohort of patients with RPO and acetabular bone loss who underwent primary THA. Risk factors, degree of acetabular bone loss and outcomes are presented. A typical case of RPO is described and investigations discussed. A retrospective audit was undertaken. 49 patients over an 18-year period were included. RPO patients were significantly older (P < 0.01) and had a lower BMI (P = 0.03). The mean acetabular bone loss in this cohort was 10.0 mm. Pathogenesis and risk factors for developing RPO remain unclear and future research is necessary. Repeat imaging in patients with deteriorating symptoms is important and urgent surgery is required maintain bone stock.