Revision of complex acetabular defects using cages with the aid of rapid prototyping

This study details a method using rapid prototyping (RP) technique to assist in acetabular revision with complex bone defects. Hemi-pelvic RP models were built among 25 patients with complex acetabular bone defects. Each patient was scheduled to undergo revision using either commercially available or customized cages based on individualized RP models. Average follow-up was 4.4 years (range, 1 to 9 years). The average Harris hip score was 36.1 (range, 20 to 58) preoperatively and reached an average of 82.6 (range, 60-96) at the last follow-up. No mechanical failure or loosening was observed. One patient experienced hip dislocation 4 days postoperatively. The resultant findings of this study merit consideration of RP as a helpful clinical complement for dealing with some complex bone defect of acetabulum.