Total hip revision using a cup design with a peg to treat severe pelvic bone defects

When dealing with severe bone loss during acetabular revision of a total hip arthroplasty, it can be difficult to find a reliable anatomical structure to ensure high-quality primary fixation of the cup. Since 2003, we have been using an implant with a long peg that is anchored into the iliac isthmus. This structure is usually intact, even in the most severe situations of bone loss. The use of this specially designed component provides satisfactory mechanical reconstruction in cases that can be quite challenging (Paprosky and SOFCOT stage 3). The length and postoperative care for the procedure remain the same and early weight bearing is possible. The specific principles applying to this procedure, along with the anatomical features of the iliac isthmus, the implantation technique and our initial results are described in detail.