Impaction bone grafting for contained acetabular defects in total hip arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Acetabular bone loss is a technical challenge in total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study sought to report the functional and radiological results of acetabular reconstruction using impaction bone grafting (IBG) in patients with acetabular bone deficiency undergoing primary or revision THA. METHODS: In this prospective study, full history taking, preoperative clinical and radiological evaluation, and preoperative planning and templating were performed. The Paprosky classification and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons classification were used to assess the acetabular deficiencies. Clinical outcomes were assessed utilizing the Harris hip score (HHS) and a 4-question satisfaction questionnaire. Graft incorporation was evaluated in the last follow-up X-rays. RESULTS: This study included 50 patients with a mean age of 46.7 ± 15.3 years. The THA was primary in 14 (28%) patients and revision in 36 (72%) patients. The mean HHS improved significantly from 28.8 ± 24.1 preoperatively to 76.6 ± 6.1, with a mean follow-up period of 23 months. Overall, 88% of patients were very satisfied. Complete radiological graft incorporation to host bone was achieved in 35 (70%) patients, and the remaining patients had partial incorporation. Complete graft incorporation was associated more frequently with primary THA, autografts, cementless cups, decreased defect size, and decreased graft layer thickness. CONCLUSIONS: IBG for acetabular reconstruction in THA can achieve excellent clinical and radiological outcomes with a low complication rate. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Medium-term outcome of the Libra® cemented versus cementless stems in primary dual mobility total hip arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the increasing use of cementless stems in total hip arthroplasty, the cemented stem has played a valuable role in the armamentarium of orthopedic surgeons. This study aims to compare two types of Libra® stems SERF, one cemented (Libra® C) and the other cementless hydroxyapatite coated (Libra® HA) that were conducted to analyze the medium-term outcome regarding their behavior and longevity. METHODS: This is a retrospective study for patients who received primary total hip arthroplasty with Dual Mobility (DM) articulation in the period between January 2014 to January 2020 with a minimum of two years follow-up. Two-hundred hips have been identified in 196 patients. One hundred forty-three Libra® cementless versus fifty-seven Libra cemented stems were implanted and the outcome of these stems is reported. All procedures were performed through the posterior approach and cemented stems were selected for elderly patients with wide medullary canals Dorr Type C. The indications for the index procedure were fractures, avascular necrosis, rheumatoid, and osteoarthritis. One hundred thirty-nine cementless DM cups were used while sixty-one hips had cemented Novae stick cups. Radiological evaluation for cup and stem positions, cement mantle, and radiolucent lines was performed, besides clinical function using the Harris Hip Score. RESULTS: The average age of patients was 60 ± 14.8. At the latest review, none of the cemented stems was revised or awaiting revision. One cementless stem was revised because of cortical perforation. Five intraoperative fractures were observed in the cementless group, but none of them needed revision or affected the stem stability. Readmission to theatre occurred in four patients to evacuate hematoma in two, a reduction of dislocation in one, and grafting bone lysis in one. CONCLUSION: Cemented stems have an important role in osteoporotic patients with wide medullary canals with excellent outcomes and minimal risk of fracture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Enhancing biology and providing structural support for acetabular reconstruction in single-stage revision for infection.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of combined segmental and cavitary defects of the acetabulum is a challenge to the hip surgeon. One question regards the efficacy of reconstruction of acetabular defects using a combination of tantalum metal augments (TMAs) and impaction graft in single-stage revision for periprosthetic infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the period between July 2009 and August 2014, 24 patients with combined segmental and cavitary acetabular defects and Paprosky classification grade IIB, IIC, and IIIA had hips reconstructed using the combination of TMAs and antibiotic-loaded impaction grafting. A similar group of 30 patients who received single-stage revision without metal augments were identified and taken as control. All patients received a polyethylene cemented cup and long cementless (Wagner SL) stem. Patients were prospectively evaluated using the modified Harris Hip Score (HHS) in addition to radiological evaluation at 3, 6, and 12 months then annually thereafter. RESULTS: At an average follow-up period of 4 years (range 2-7 years), all but one patient in the study group were free of infection, indicating a 96% success rate. This rate of eradicating infection was comparable to the 97% success rate in the control group. All metal augments were stable, and good incorporation of the impacted bone graft was observed. The HHS improved significantly from 27 preoperatively to 83 postoperatively (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Metal augments can convert massive acetabular defects to a more contained defect suitable for grafting. The combination of tantalum augments that provide strong structural support and antibiotic-loaded allograft is successful in the mid-term in single-stage revisions for infection. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV (prospective case series).

Medium term results of total knee arthroplasty as a primary treatment for knee fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Successful treatment of knee comminuted periarticular fractures associated with osteoporosis and pre-existing arthritis is a challenging task. METHODS: This is a prospective study on 27 patients who had comminuted intra and periarticular knee fractures and pre-existing arthritis. Fractures were classified according to Muller's AO classification. Primary knee arthroplasty was performed ± internal fixation following 4 weeks of splinting. A stem was added to the tibial tray and Legacy Constrained Condylar Knee (LCCK) or Rotating Hinge (RH) prosthesis were used depending on the level of ligament damage and bone defects. The Knee Society Score (KSS) and radiological evaluation were performed at 3, 6 and 12 months then annually thereafter. RESULTS: The average age of this group of patients was 63 years (range 59-74). Sixteen knees received primary femoral component and Posterior Stabilized insert, while 8 had LCCK. RH implants were chosen in 2 and distal femoral replacement was necessary in one knee. Twenty five patients were available for the final review at an average 6 years in whom the KSS was 80 (range 75-89) points. All patients achieved full knee extension and average knee flexion of 110° (range 90-135°). One knee needed re-admission for early Debridement Antibiotic Irrigation and Retention (DAIR) but none of the knees was revised or awaiting revision. CONCLUSION: Knee arthroplasty achieves highly successful outcome when performed as a primary treatment for comminuted intra and periarticular knee fractures in elderly patients. Survival of implants and functional range of movement at midterm are excellent.