Impact of Gluteal Sling Release on Gluteal Dysfunction and Functional Outcomes in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

This study aimed to assess the impact of gluteal sling release during total hip arthroplasty (THA) on gluteal muscle function and hip joint outcomes. A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted between September 2023 and August 2024, including 144 patients diagnosed with unilateral coxarthrosis who underwent THA. Patients were divided into three groups: gluteal sling preserved (n=47), released (n=52), and released and repaired (n=45). Preoperative and postoperative evaluations at six months included clinical scoring (VAS, HHS, and WOMAC), hip computed tomography (CT) scans for muscle cross-sectional area and density, and isokinetic testing to measure hip extensor strength. Surgical and rehabilitative procedures were standardized across all groups, with a focus on evaluating the functional and radiological effects of gluteal sling release.

The results demonstrated that all groups experienced significant postoperative improvements in pain scores (VAS), hip function (HHS), and joint-related disability (WOMAC) (p<0.001). No significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of gluteus maximus muscle cross-sectional area (p>0.05). However, muscle density significantly decreased in the gluteal sling release group (p=0.022), suggesting fatty degeneration, while no significant changes were observed in the other groups. Hip extensor strength showed a decline in the gluteal sling release group and an increase in the other groups, but these differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Sciatic nerve injury was recorded in one patient (2.1%) from the preserved group but was absent in the other groups. No significant differences were found in sciatic nerve injury rates across the groups.

In conclusion, the gluteal sling release technique provides better intraoperative visualization and may reduce the risk of iatrogenic sciatic nerve injury by alleviating nerve compression. However, while it does not significantly affect hip extensor strength, it may contribute to muscle fatty degeneration. Given these findings, preserving or repairing the gluteal sling whenever feasible is recommended. Additionally, a well-structured rehabilitation program following surgery is crucial to optimize patient recovery and functional outcomes.