Cost Comparison of Cementless Versus Cemented Hemiarthroplasty for Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures

Abstract

Hip hemiarthroplasties are frequently performed for displaced femoral neck fractures. The purpose of this study was to identify the costs associated with cementless and cemented hemiarthroplasties, compare operative times, and identify complications. The hypothesis was that cementless hemiarthroplasties cost less than cemented hemiarthroplasties, require less operative time, and have fewer perioperative complications. A retrospective review was conducted of 2 surgeons' patients admitted for displaced femoral neck fractures between 2006 and 2010. Group 1 included 45 patients who underwent monopolar hemiarthroplasties with cementless femoral components via a standard posterior approach by a single surgeon. Group 2 included 49 patients who underwent monopolar hemiarthroplasties with cemented femoral components via a modified lateral approach by a single surgeon. Surgical and anesthesia times and the cost of implants and accessories were recorded. The cost for cementless components was $3275.60 (femoral stem, $2800; monopolar head, $400; sleeve, $75.60), whereas the cost of cemented components was $3694.47 (femoral stem, $1800; monopolar head, $400; sleeve, $75.60, 3 Simplex with tobramycin cement packets, $1221; cement mixer/irrigator with tip/centralizer and plug/pressurizer, $197.87), a cost savings of 12.7% ($418.87). Operative time was significantly reduced in group 1 vs group 2 (mean, 32.9 vs 56.1 minutes, respectively; P<.01). Anesthesia time was also significantly reduced in group 1 (mean, 82.3 vs 102.9 minutes, respectively; P<.01). The difference in mean anesthetic times demonstrates an overall cost savings of 18.6%, or $1161.30. No difference in complications was noted between the groups perioperatively. Regional cost variances, vendor-hospital contracts, and surgeons' operative times are factors that may influence cost savings. This study demonstrates significantly lower operative and anesthetic times and observable cost savings with cementless femoral implants.