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Should we worry about periacetabular interference gaps in hip resurfacing?
Bruno Gomes1, Michael Olsen, Michael Donnelly
1Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, St Michael's Hospital, Room 800, 55 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON, M5C1R6, Canada.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|November 27, 2012
Summary
Reducing acetabular underream in hip resurfacing to 1 mm is safe and effective. This technique minimizes interference gaps, ensuring secure press-fit fixation without increasing loosening risks.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Press-fit acetabular component insertion in hip resurfacing requires a strong interference fit, which can be technically challenging.
- The impact of reducing acetabular underream on incomplete seating and loosening remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and natural history of postoperative interference gaps in hip resurfacing.
- To determine if reducing acetabular underream from 2 mm to 1 mm decreases periacetabular interference gaps.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of 306 Birmingham Hip™ Resurfacings with minimum 1-year follow-up.
- Radiographic monitoring of periacetabular interference gaps for resolution.
- Comparison of incomplete component seating rates between 1-mm and 2-mm underream techniques.
Main Results:
- Postoperative periacetabular interference gaps were present in 51% of hips.
- 96% of these gaps resolved by the final follow-up.
- A 1-mm underream significantly reduced interference gaps (39%) compared to a 2-mm underream (63%).
- No acetabular revisions due to failure were reported.
Conclusions:
- Periacetabular interference gaps are common but do not lead to acetabular component failure.
- A 1-mm acetabular underream is adequate for short-term press-fit fixation in Birmingham Hip™ Resurfacing.
