Jig-assisted modified Harrington reconstruction for metastatic bone destruction of the acetabulum

We developed a technique using an indigenously designed jig to assist pin placement in producing a stable and long-lasting construct to augment the acetabulum combined with a cemented hip replacement in cases of metastatic destruction of the acetabulum. We describe our novel modified Harrington technique and retrospectively assess our cohort's clinical outcomes and complications.

Between 2006 and 2019, 27 patients with a median age of 69 (49-81) years and a median ASA grade of III (II-IV) were managed using our modified 'Harrington' technique. We assessed outcomes on the following criteria: mechanical complications, post-surgery mobility, and functional outcome using Musculoskeletal Tumour Society Score (MSTS).

At the last follow-up, ten patients were alive with disease [median follow-up of 26 months (12-74)], and 17 patients died of their oncological disease [median follow-up of 15 months (9-22)]. There were no perioperative deaths or intra-operative complications in our series. In total, ten complications were noted in nine patients (33%). Mobility-wise, 13 patients (48%) mobilised unaided, ten patients (37%) required a stick or crutch, two patients (7%) required a frame and two patients (7%) were wheel chair-dependent. The median MSTS score of all patients during their latest follow-up was 18 (8-26).

Our jig-aided modified Harrington reconstruction technique assists in safe placement of antegrade pins in acetabulum during surgery and offers a long-lasting solution to these high-risk patients. The use of large diameter pins, appropriate patient selection, and cage used during construction in the acetabulum demonstrated relief of pain, improved mobility, and favorable functional outcomes with minimal complication rates.