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Updated: Aug 7, 2026

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Individualized Stem-positioning in Calcar-guided Short-stem Total Hip Arthroplasty
Published on: February 27, 2018
Lessons learned in 30 years of total hip arthroplasty
1Department of Orthopedics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Total hip arthroplasty (THA) requires understanding its evolution and careful prosthesis selection. Surgeons must establish protocols, data banks, and be aware of potential complications for excellent long-term outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has evolved significantly over 30 years.
- Understanding the historical progression and biomechanical principles is crucial for successful outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To share key lessons learned in 30 years of total hip arthroplasty.
- To emphasize the importance of careful prosthesis selection, surgical protocols, and long-term follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Review of 30 years of experience and clinical data in total hip arthroplasty.
- Analysis of biomechanical principles, prosthesis design, and fixation methods.
- Identification and discussion of common complications associated with THA.
Main Results:
- Excellent results are achievable with newer, improved methods and proper use of polymethylmethacrylate.
- Biologic (ingrowth) fixation presents emerging problems and should not be considered the ultimate aim.
- Complications including loosening, infection, pain, ion absorption, and stress shielding must be carefully managed.
Conclusions:
- A rigorous approach encompassing prosthesis selection, surgical technique, and comprehensive follow-up is essential for successful THA.
- Surgeons must maintain objective scrutiny of their own experience and be aware of potential complications.
- Continuous learning and adaptation to evolving techniques and materials are vital in hip arthroplasty.

