Cemented Femoral Stem Fixation: Back to the Future

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Medical Engineering

Background:

• Periprosthetic fractures are a common complication following hip arthroplasty.
• These fractures represent a significant mode of early implant failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the current role of cemented fixation in managing periprosthetic fractures.
• To review the historical rationale and advantages of cemented stem fixation.
• To discuss the surgical technique for cemented stem fixation.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical data and rationale for cemented stem fixation.
• Analysis of registry data concerning cemented stem fixation outcomes.
• Discussion of surgical techniques for cemented stem fixation.

Main Results:

• Cemented stem fixation is well-documented to reduce periprosthetic fractures.
• Utilization of cemented stem fixation is low in the United States.
• The low utilization is attributed to multifactorial reasons.

Conclusions:

• Cemented stem fixation offers advantages, including reduced risk of periprosthetic femur fractures.
• A methodical surgical technique is crucial for successful cemented stem fixation.
• Further exploration of cemented stem fixation's benefits is warranted.