[What is the interest of early mobilization after total hip arthroplasty? Development of French guidelines for clinical practice].

Aims: To develop clinical practice guidelines for early mobilisation after total hip replacement (THR).

Method: We used the French Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Sofmer) methodology, which associates a systematic review of the literature, the collection of information regarding current clinical practice and external review by a multidisciplinary expert panel.

Results: Recommending early mobilisation after THR is not established by a review of the literature. A survey of French clinical practice allows for recommending early mobilisation in the context of complex hip issues. Trials with good methodology must be developed to evaluate the interest of early functional mobilisation corresponding to when patients first stand and take their first steps after surgery. These trials should focus mainly on the final pain, functional status, and reduction of handicap.