Results for a custom acetabular component for acetabular deficiency

We report our experience with a triflanged titanium cementless custom-made acetabular implant in the management of complex major acetabular deficiency for revision total hip arthroplasty in 27 patients. The mean follow-up period was 58 months (range, 48-72 months). There were 9 men and 18 women. Clinical assessment was performed using Charnley's modification of the Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scoring system. Radiographic assessment was carried out using the DeLee and Charnley grading system. All patients had improved hip scores at latest examination. Six patients (22%) had complications. Two patients (7.4%) required further revision surgery. This procedure is technically demanding and has a high complication rate. Until better long-term results are shown, this procedure should be restricted to patients for whom a Girdlestone pseudarthrosis is the only surgical alternative.