Acetabular component revision using a porous tantalum biomaterial: a case series

Biologic ingrowth can be difficult to achieve in acetabular component revision, especially in cases with significant bone loss. The purpose of this study was to review our clinical results of acetabular component revisions in patients with significant bone loss using a porous tantalum biomaterial. This is a retrospective review of 25 patients. There were 16 females and 9 males with a mean age of 71.7 +/- 10.54 years. The mean follow up was 39 +/- 11.09 months (range, 28-55 months). All patients in this series had combined segmental and cavitary bone loss, Paprosky type 2 or type 3. Of 22 patients in this series, 21 had a well-fixed and functioning implant at latest follow up. All 21 patients developed ingrowth along the tantalum surface despite compromised host bone. There were no cases of dislocation or aseptic loosening. Porous tantalum appears to be a promising material for use in revision hip arthroplasty to facilitate biologic ingrowth in patients with acetabular bone loss.