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Polyethylene liner dissociation with the Harris-Galante II acetabular component
1Orthopaedic Associates of Central New York, Department of Bioengineering and Neuroscience, Syracuse University, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|May 12, 2001
Summary
Dissociation of polyethylene liners from metal shells in Harris-Galante II acetabular components occurred in 2.6% of cases. This complication, presenting as pain and difficulty walking, was observed over 2 years post-total hip arthroplasty.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Total hip arthroplasty (THA) aims to restore function and alleviate pain.
- The Harris-Galante II acetabular component, featuring a porous metal shell, was utilized for primary and revision THA.
Observation:
- A rare complication, dissociation of the polyethylene liner from the metal shell, was noted.
- Six hips in five patients experienced acute pain and ambulation difficulties more than two years after THA.
- Radiographic findings included an eccentrically placed femoral head within the acetabular component.
Findings:
- The study identified a 2.6% incidence of polyethylene liner dissociation with the Harris-Galante II component between 1990 and 1994.
- Management strategies included cementing the liner, revision surgery for shell fracture, or conservative management for asymptomatic cases.
- This case series represents the largest documented cohort of this specific complication for a single prosthetic design.
Implications:
- The findings highlight a significant complication rate associated with the Harris-Galante II acetabular component.
- Understanding this dissociation mechanism is crucial for improving future implant designs and patient outcomes.
- This study underscores the importance of long-term monitoring for patients with THA.