Early Experience with a Tapered Titanium Porous Plasma Sprayed Stem with Updated Design

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• The Taperloc® Complete femoral stem is an updated design based on the original Taperloc stem, with modifications to improve hip biomechanics.
• Key enhancements include a reduced caput-collum-diaphyseal (CCD) angle, optimized neck taper, and reduced distal geometry for better proximal canal fill.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the early clinical outcomes and radiographic findings of the Taperloc® Complete femoral stem in primary cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 103 primary cementless THA cases using the Taperloc® Complete femoral component between November 2010 and March 2011.
• High offset option utilized in 91% of cases. Mean patient age 61.8 years, BMI 31.3 kg/m2. Diagnoses included osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Main Results:

• Mean follow-up of 5.3 years. Harris hip scores improved significantly from 53.6 to 87.9.
• One stem revision for periprosthetic fracture; other reoperations included cup revision, neurectomy, and wound debridement.
• Radiographs showed satisfactory component position and alignment, with no radiolucencies, osteolysis, distal hypertrophy, or pedestal formation.

Conclusions:

• The updated Taperloc® Complete femoral stem demonstrates good early clinical results with a low complication and revision rate.
• No aseptic loosening or osteolysis was observed, and radiographic findings were excellent.
• The enhanced design features contribute to successful outcomes in cementless THA.