[5-t-7-year results of cementless Endler acetabular prosthesis]

From September 1980 to March 1985, 123 cementless, polyethylene Endler acetabular sockets of the threaded, tapered type were implanted in 115 patients at the department of orthopaedic surgery, Balgrist, University of Zurich. The first 102 Endler sockets, in combination with a Zweymüller femoral prosthesis, have been followed up till April 1988, this corresponding to an average observation period of 57.4 months. 12.8% of the total number of qualitative criteria and the Sutherland method, and further 20.6% of the cases were suspected of having loosened, so that a figure of 33.3% (34 loosened sockets) resulted. A definite correlation between loosening and the following factors were determined: females, limping, Trendelenburg sign, period of implantation and severe, continuous pain. No correlation was found between either tolerable pain, age, weight, or para-articular ossification, and loosening. The cementless artificial hip joint of Endler/Zweymüller combination led to a definite improvement of independency and living quality through increase in mobility and reduction of pain.