Comparing Trabecular Metal Versus Fiber Mesh Cementless Acetabular Components: A Single-Center Study of 6,563 Hips

Trabecular metal is being increasingly used in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study compared medium-term (< 15 years) outcomes of fiber mesh titanium and trabecular metal acetabular components.

This study included 6,563 patients who underwent primary THA with either fiber mesh titanium or trabecular metal-backed acetabular components. Data were sourced from a prospectively maintained local arthroplasty database and linked with the National Joint Registry.

The 10-year survivorship was 97.3% for fiber mesh and 98.9% for porous tantalum groups (P = 0.009). Multivariate analysis showed no significant variable associated with reduced revision rates.

Both fiber mesh titanium and trabecular metal acetabular components demonstrated high survivorship in THA, with trabecular metal showing statistically significant though marginally better survival. Despite the increased cost associated with trabecular metal, its use may be justified in complex primary and revision cases where increased primary stability may be required. Future research should focus on cost analysis and include patient-reported outcomes to guide implant selection further.