[Percutaneous cementoplasty for malignant osteolysis of the acetabulum]

The development of malignant lesions in the acetabulum can lead to painful and disabling bone destruction. In carefully selected patients where the cortical still provides a sufficient barrier protecting the joint, percutaneous injection of ciment (10-15 cc) can be a successful mean of countering both pain and functional impairment. This easy-to-perform technique requires only local anaesthesia and can be highly cost-effective. The antalgic effect is rapid. Most patients are able to walk again within 1 to 5 days (an effect which is particularly spectacular in bedridden subjects) probably due to the reduced pain and to better distribution of the mechanical forces. Hospitalization is usually shortened. In our experience with 18 patients, clinical improvement has been maintained for up to 18 months (mean follow-up 7 months) if the osteolytic process remains under control. Secondary effects are not rare but usually temporary. Recurrent pain, fever and/or inflammatory processes have been observed and usually resolve within 1 to 4 days. Intra-articular leakage can be avoided by careful patient selection. In association with radiotherapy, percutaneous injection of ciment appears to be an useful alternative to surgery for patients with destructive malignant lesions of the acetabulum, particularly in those with a poor clinical status and a short life expectancy. This technique has already been shown to be effective in lesions of the vertebral bodies. Several teams have made further attempts in other localizations.