Cementless acetabular revision with the Harris-Galante porous prosthesis. Results after a minimum of ten years of follow-up.

Abstract

Revisions of the acetabular component of a total hip arthroplasty have a higher rate of complications, particularly loosening and dislocation, than do primary procedures. The purpose of this study, in which the results of a consecutive series of revisions performed with the Harris-Galante Porous acetabular component by a single surgeon were evaluated at an average of twelve years, was to quantify the complications and outcomes of acetabular revision. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated to assess loosening, lysis, radiolucencies, and trochanteric union in 188 hips (170 patients) treated between 1984 and 1990. One hundred and twenty-two hips in 110 patients were followed for at least ten years, which was required for inclusion in the study. Thirty-one patients (thirty-six hips) died less than ten years postoperatively, and twenty-nine patients (thirty hips) were lost to or refused to return for follow-up. The average Harris hip score was 78 points at an average of 12.5 years after revision, which was a 29-point improvement compared with the preoperative score. The rate of repeat revision because of aseptic loosening of the acetabular shell was 4% (five of 122). The rate of repeat revision of the shell for any reason was 15% (eighteen of 122). Eight unrevised sockets were loose radiographically, for a total rate of aseptic loosening of 11% (thirteen of 122). This study demonstrated that most acetabular revisions with this cementless hemispherical socket were successful. Few structural grafts and no cages were used. Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series [no, or historical, control group]). See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.