[Cement removal with ultrasound in revision or total hip prosthesis]

Bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA) removal during revision hip arthroplasty can be a tedious, time-consuming process. The usual methods of removing cement include high-speed drills, chisels, saws, and reamers, which are often associated with fracture or perforation of the femoral shaft. An alternative very promising method is cement removal with ultrasound. We present an ultrasonic device for rapid cement removal with minimum risk of trauma to the fragile femoral bone. The technique of cement removal with ultrasound is described and problems and risks are addressed.