Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 5, 2026
Individualized Stem-positioning in Calcar-guided Short-stem Total Hip Arthroplasty
Published on: February 27, 2018
Short proximal components in modular revision stems carry a higher risk for stem fractures
Falko Herold1, Hubert Nötzli2, Henk Eijer1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spital Emmental, Burgdorf, Switzerland.
Introduction:
Fractures of modular hip revision stems are not uncommon. The current study examined implant-related factors on stem fracture. We hypothesised that in a modular stem the fracture risk is increased with the use of a short proximal implant component.
Materials And Methods:
Anonymised data of all 32 patients in Switzerland with a Revitan modular hip system who had a stem fracture were obtained from the manufacturer. Implant and patient data were compared with all components implanted in Switzerland during the same time interval.
Results:
Between 2002 and 2017, 4834 Revitan stems were implanted, of which 32 fractured. A smaller size of the proximal stem component was significantly associated with a higher fracture risk (p < 0.001). Compared with the control group, the proportion of male patients was higher among the fracture cases, patients were younger, and they had a higher body weight (p < 0.001, respectively).
Conclusions:
The present study suggests that small proximal stem components increase the load at the modular junction due to size and lack of bony support. Surgeons should therefore avoid short proximal components so that the mid-stem junction lies as distally as possible and the risk of fracture is minimised.
More Related Videos
06:59Fracture Apparatus Design and Protocol Optimization for Closed-stabilized Fractures in Rodents
Published on: August 14, 2018
07:35Creating Rigidly Stabilized Fractures for Assessing Intramembranous Ossification, Distraction Osteogenesis, or Healing of Critical Sized Defects
Published on: April 11, 2012
Related Concept Videos
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the...
01:09Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
01:10Bones of the Lower Limb: Tibia and Fibula