Surgical treatment for limping after hip replacement using Achilles tendon

Achilles Tendon Homograft for the Treatment of Gluteus Medius Insufficiency After Hip Replacement

Not applicable Interventional Sahlgrenska University Hospital · NCT05206838

This study tests if using a piece of Achilles tendon to fix the gluteus medius can help people who still limp after hip replacement feel better compared to just doing physical therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment44 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorSahlgrenska University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Mölndal)
Trial IDNCT05206838 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of surgical reconstruction of the gluteus medius using an Achilles tendon allograft for patients experiencing residual limping after total hip arthroplasty. It compares the outcomes of this surgical approach with non-surgical treatment combined with physiotherapy. The hypothesis is that the surgical intervention will lead to improved hip function and reduced limping compared to non-surgical methods. Patients will be monitored for hip function and any adverse events following the procedures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have persistent limping and a positive Trendelenburg sign for at least 12 months following total hip arthroplasty.

Not a fit: Patients with neuromuscular disorders will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients suffering from limping after hip replacement.

How similar studies have performed: While similar surgical approaches have been explored, this specific use of Achilles tendon allograft for gluteus medius insufficiency is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Persisting limping with positive Trendelenburg's sign for at least 12 months after total hip arthroplasty
* Rupture/avulsion of the gluteus medius tendon verified with ultrasound or MRI
* Leg length discrepancy of less than 1 cm
* Femoral offset discrepancy of less than 25%

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neuromuscular disorders

Where this trial is running

Mölndal

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Arthroplasty ComplicationsMuscle WeaknessMuscle AtrophyMuscle TearGluteus mediusLimpAbductorTrendelenburg
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.