Cement removal in revision total hip arthroplasty

The number of revision total hip arthroplasties performed on an annual basis continue to increase and are a direct and consequent result of the ever increasing number of primary total hip arthroplasties. The operative procedure is extremely demanding and complex, especially with respect to removal of the polymethylmethacrylate. This article reviews current available techniques and instrumentation for removal of polymethylmethacrylate. It is incumbent upon the orthopedic surgeon to determine which of these techniques and instruments can be used to facilitate removal of the polymethylmethacrylate while maximally preserving bone stock.