Drug 'aids hip replacement life'

Hip replacements do not last forever. Using a bone-strengthening drug could make joint replacements last longer, according to an analysis of GPs' records.

The study, published on the British Medical Journal website, showed that the failure rate could be cut in half.

Researchers analysed data from patients who were taking bisphosphonates, which are used to prevent the loss of bone material.

However, scientists say further studies are still needed.

When joints become damaged or worn out, commonly due to osteoarthritis, it can be painful and limits movement.

An implant can dramatically improve a patient's mobility. More than 50,000 hip and 70,000 knee, replacements take place in the UK each year.

Too loose

While they can last for decades, some fail within years. This can happen when the bone around the implant is dissolved by the body meaning the replacement joint becomes loose.

Continue reading the main story“Start QuoteIt has the potential to have a huge impact”

End QuoteProf Nigel Arden The theory was that bisphosphonates, which are used by patients with osteoporosis to prevent bone being broken down, would prevent the loosening.

The researchers looked at data from General Practice Research Database for joint replacements and compared what happened to 1,912 patients taking bisphosphonates with 41,995 patients who did not.

After five years, 1.96% of implants failed without the drug, compared with 0.93% in those taking medication.