A Systematic and Anatomic Approach to Acetabular Preparation During Total Hip Arthroplasty

Proper acetabular preparation is critical to successful total hip arthroplasty (THA). As there is a paucity of literature offering technical guidance on cementless acetabular preparation during THA, we provide a systematic approach herein that utilizes anatomic cues to maximize reproducibility. Common dilemmas during acetabular preparation are addressed, including how to medialize, position sequential reamers, and determine the final reamer size. Considerations unique to arthroplasty in cases of protrusio or dysplasia, as well as acetabular component revision, are also discussed.