A Better Understanding of the Surface Topography at the Stem-Cement Interface

Abstract

The long term stabilization and durability of cemented total hip replacement (THR) depends on not only the bulk properties of the components but also the interfaces through which they interact. The stem-cement interface has been consistently considered as a weak link in the stem-cement-bone system, being a transitional zone between two materials with significantly different mechanical properties. Previous research concerning this interface has been limited to investigation of interfacial shear strength through in vitro test and finite element analysis (FEA). Until now, a deep insight into the contact characteristics at this interface, especially the interaction between femoral stems with various surface finishes and bone cement, has not been established. In addition, it is still an area of debate whether a permanent fixation can be achieved by utilizing a matt femoral stem, and furthermore it is another matter of concern that a matt femoral stem would cause much more damage to the cement mantle, resulting in an acceleration of aseptic loosening of the femoral stem. This present study investigated the surface topography of stainless steel rods and Simplex P bone cement obtained from a series of pull out tests in order to gain a better understanding of the interaction at the stem-cement interface.