Computerized templating in uncemented total hip arthroplasty to assess component fit and fill

The aim of the uncemented femoral component in total hip arthroplasty is to achieve a stable bone-prosthesis interface without the use of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Maximal fill of the femoral canal by the prosthesis promotes initial stability and long-term optimal stress transfer to the bone. The percentage "fit and fill" of the proximal femur by three prostheses, the porous coated anatomic, anatomic medullary locking, and the Harris-Galante, was compared by use of a computerized templating model to assess preoperative radiographs of 20 patients. Results showed that overall percentage fit and fill was similar and satisfactory (greater than 60%) in 17 of 20 patients. If a satisfactory fill was not achieved with one prosthesis, another prosthesis did not significantly improve fill. Lack of bony contact in the proximomedial femur was the most common deficiency noted.